What Will I Learn in a Real Estate Degree Program?

Do you love the idea of helping to develop and sell real estate? Then a degree program in real estate could be a great way to start a long and successful career. The majority of the courses taken in a real estate degree program are focused on providing students with the information they need to pass the real estate licensing exam required to work in their state. This means taking courses in real estate law, appraisal, advertising and marketing, economics, mathematics, business and communication. Aside from these basic courses, students can choose to specialize in an area of real estate such as mortgages, home appraisal or real estate development. These degree programs are designed to equip students with the skills they need to navigate the often complicated finances, legal issues and interpersonal relationships involved in real estate.

MS in Real Estate

What Can I Do With a Real Estate Degree?

The most common job that graduates of a real estate degree program pursue is real estate agent, helping people to buy and sell their personal and commercial properties. This type of career can mean selling and marketing properties that range from low-end starter homes to million-dollar estates. Some graduates will use their expertise to develop land for resale, working as real estate developers. Others will use their knowledge of the real estate market to help homeowners and other real estate agents appraise houses. There are a wide variety of ways a degree in real estate can be used, making it a good investment for those who want to work in the field.

What Is the Career Outlook for Real Estate Degree Students?

Job opportunities for real estate degree graduates are expected to increase by 9 to 17 percent in the coming years, but with the current economic downturn, many are facing tough markets and fewer job opportunities. For those who want to invest in properties and develop real estate, however, right now could be the ideal time to go into the field. Graduates of a real estate program should always keep in mind that the real estate market is highly susceptible to changes in the economy, making it somewhat less secure financially than some other professions. For those who are good at what they do, the financial benefits can be immense, though most real estate agents who are just starting out will make between $35,000 and $58,000 a year.