Masters in Real Estate

The business of real estate has been around for hundreds of years. Selling and purchasing land has played an important role in every civilization's commerce and economy. Over the years, real estatehas evolved into a thriving industry. According to USA Today, the real estate market is gradually gaining momentum and is on its way to recovery.

The country’s economy relies heavily on its real estate industry. This industry is not only responsible for the employment of millions but also attracts billions in investments. It is an industry that is rewardingand challenging at the same time.The National Association of Realtors has stated that real estate offers some of the diverse careers today. This field is generating a lot of attention and offers many different career-paths.

This has pushed the need for professionals who have acquired specialized education in real estate. A number of business schools and vocational schools are offering degree programs in this area.

Real Estate Master Programs

Masters degree in real estate is one of the main graduate-level degrees one can enroll in. This program is advanced andprovides students with a unique opportunity to potentially gain a foothold in a real estate industry. In this program, students will master the art of evaluation, negotiation and critical thinking. Students will learn about the various facets of the field and will acquire an in-depth understanding of real estate operations and functions.

Coursework

The program will cover a range of theory-based subjects relevant to the main academic principle. The curriculum is comprehensive and advanced in nature. The curriculum may vary a little with institutes. However, some of the most common subjects are:

Real Estate Economics and Market Analysis

In this course, students will examine the national and global real estate markets. The course will introduce students to the different types of properties and how they affect other economic conditions. A few of the topics covered in this course include economic impact, real estate decision-making, indicators, urban economic growth, forecasting real estate demand and policy issues.

Real Estate Finance

In this course, students will learn about debt and equity financing of real estate. Various analysis measures and valuation techniques are covered. Students will acquire an in-depth understanding of instruments involved in mortgage and lending, and the role of government financing in real estate.

Legal Principles and Practices

There are certain laws and regulations that apply to the real estate industry. This course is designed to provide students with an overview of construction law, contracts, ownership of property, right and obligations, and liabilities of parties.

The Development Process

Students will gain insight on the main development process in real estate. The course will cover topics such as contracts and subcontracts, conceptualization, site acquisition, planning and design, leadership management, and construction process.

Negotiation and Dispute Resolution

This course covers negotiation theories, strategies, and tactics of real estate. Students will understand how to use different negotiation methods, mediation techniques, litigation settlement techniques, and arbitration methods.

Real Estate Capital Markets

This course covers areas such as equity capital and commercial real estate. Students will understand what the four main quadrants of capital are (private debt, private equity, public debt, and public equity).

Risk and Portfolio Management

In this course, students will learn how to analyze risks in real estate investments. Topics covered in the course include credit worthiness, market diversification strategies, volatility and risk diversification, and modern portfolio theory.

Objectives of the Program

• Provide students with an overview of developmental and financial aspects of real estate
• Understand the different factors of the economy that affect real estate markets
• Gain insight on the local, national, and international real estate scenario and forecast future trends in the industry
• Build necessary skills necessary for negotiation and analysis
• Understand best practices in Real Estate

Skill Development

• Communication skills
• Critical-thinking skills
• Analytical skills
• Planning and management skills
• Decision-making skills
• Problem solving skills

Duration and Degree Completion Requirements

The program can be completed in two years from most colleges. However, some colleges are also offering accelerated masters degree which can be completed in less than two years. Students are required to acquire the minimum number of credits to successfully complete the degree. It is recommended that you get information about the credit hours and duration of the program by visiting the official website of the prospective schools.

Online Masters in Real Estate

Now it is possible to pursue an online masters degree in real estate. Online programs are specifically designed for students who are already employed as well as for stay-at-home parents looking to start their own venture. These courses are comprehensively designed and discuss every topic in detailthrough online lectures, videos, and online conferencing. Apart from the convenienceand flexibility in online learning, students may find online education relatively affordable. 

Career Paths

Real Estate is a multifaceted industry which requires skilled professionals. Individuals can choose to work in a number of different areas. Some of them are:

• Residential real estate
• Commercial real estate
• Farm and land brokerage
• Real estate appraising
• Property management
• Land development
• Urban planning
• Real estate research and counseling

Licensing

To work as a real estate broker or agent, you must be licensed. The requirements may vary from state to state, but generally include the following:

• Candidates must be over the age of 18
• Must have acquired a degree or a certification in real estate education
• Pass a background check
• Clear the exam successfully

Industry Projections

Professionals with Masters of Real Estate can work with real estate firms or even work as self-employed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment options for real estate Brokers and sales agents are expected to grow by 11 percent from 2012 to 2020, with a median annual wage of $41,990 in 2012. With the industry expected to grow at a steady pace, real estate degree holders can look forward to plenty of career opportunities ahead.