A career in the field of real estate may be ideal for students who enjoy working with people. Those who have strong negotiation and communication skills may also consider this line of work. A number of schools in Massachusetts offer degree and certificate programs in real estate; allowing students to acquire skills essential for pursuing opportunities in real estate. Real estate brokers and sales agents help people buy, sell, and rent properties. Advising clients on prices, mortgages, and market conditions and comparing properties are also the duties of these professionals. Real estate appraisers and assessors, on the other hand, are responsible for estimating the value of land and the buildings on the land. Although it is possible to get into the field of real estate with a high school diploma, some employers prefer to hire real estate candidates with college credentials.
Real Estate Classes in MA
Both traditional and online schools offer degree programs in real estate. Students may take online classes in case they are unable to attend programs offered on campus. Ranging from associate to master’s degree programs, these programs are available for potential real estate students. These degree programs enable students to learn about real estate practices and principles, and develop expertise to be a part of real estate industry.
Types of Programs in Real Estate
Students interested in the field of real estate may pursue associate’s degrees that may take two years of full time study to earn, or they could enroll in bachelor’s degree programs that generally span over four years. Master’s degree programs are available and may be suitable for students who want to pursue leadership roles in the real estate business. In addition to undergraduate and graduate degree programs in real estate, professional development as well as continuing education programs are also offered at some schools in MA.
Students in real estate programs will learn how to apply theoretical and analytical concepts to real estate lending, investment, and development. These programs also allow students to learn about the new urbanism concepts in addition to investment and security markets. Advanced degree programs such as MBAs with focus in real estate may include instruction in project management and development in addition to real estate laws and finance.
Online Classes in Real Estate
Students who want to enroll in real estate programs in MA, but cannot make it to traditional on-campus programs may enroll in online classes. These self-paced online classes in real estate allow students to study from any location and complete the programs at their own pace. Owing to the flexibility of these programs, they may be particularly suitable for real estate professionals who wish to build upon their knowledge and skills for career improvement.
Coursework in Real Estate Programs
Ranging from real estate practices to finance, students in real estate classes study a variety of topics that helps them develop an understanding of the real estate business. Some of the topics of study may include:
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Real estate management
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Financial institutions
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Appraisal and escrow procedures
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Property management
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Urban planning
Completing real estate courses will allow students to prepare for work opportunities in real estate business, and develop communication and negotiation skills as well. They will also be able to conduct research to measures current trends and predict future activity.
Admissions Requirements
To enroll in real estate degree programs, it is essential for candidates to hold a high school diploma or GED. Those who want to enroll in master’s degree programs should have bachelor’s degrees. Some graduate programs may require students to submit GRE or GMAT scores and letters of recommendation. Students may also need to have related work experience and have leadership potential. Other factors for admissions may vary depending on the degree level, type of program, and school.
What are the Opportunities for Graduates?
Real estate graduates generally go on to become salespersons, brokers, or real estate appraisers. They generally work in offices of real estate agents and brokers, and their activities are related to real estate and credit intermediation among general real estate responsibilities. Some also set up their own real estate business.
Information from O*NET OnLine shows that Massachusetts had about 4,590 real estate agents in 2012 and will need 90 more per year between 2012 and 2022, which shows about +10% change. There were also 1,860 real estate appraisers in 2012 in the state, and the number is expected to grow to 1,950 by 2022, showing a +4% change.