Graduate Programs in Real Estate & Property Management in Illinois

What are Graduate Programs in Real Estate and Property Management?

Real estate graduate programs could prepare students to practice real estate and property management in a variety of capacities by building a foundation of core knowledge and skills of real estate practice. Classes could expose students to key concepts in development, finance, sustainability, market analysis, real estate law, and more. In addition to general real estate concepts, students may also explore specific methods for conducting business in the private or public sector, urban development, housing and sustainability.

Graduate Programs in Real Estate & Property Management are often found at the masters level. However doctorate degrees and certificate programs may be available. Programs may also be available in both the campus and online format, helping students with a variety of needs find and earn a great real estate degree.

What to Expect in Real Estate Graduate Programs?

Graduate Programs in Real Estate & Property Management are comprehensive; they focus on core business knowledge, management skills as well as technical training specific to the real estate industry. Students enrolled in real estate graduate programs could gain the ability to think critically and creatively regarding a multitude of regulations and issues facing real estate professionals. In addition to real estate, these grad programs also may place emphasis on entrepreneurship and the development of sustainable practices in construction and development, asset management, income analysis, environmental forecasting, real estate market research, public-private partnerships and global development.

What are Masters in Real Estate Programs?

Masters in Real Estate programs are typically 2 year programs or about 30 to 40 credits. They may integrate theory, case studies and projects to prepare students with advanced knowledge of the field and professional skills.

Most require applicants to hold a bachelors degree. Professional experience, test scores or recommendations may also be requested.

While all Masters in Real Estate programs may cover related topics, there do exist several variations.

Masters Degrees in Real Estate

First, a masters degree in real estate may come in several forms. The MS, MBA and MPS are the most common examples.

• MS in Real Estate (MSRE) programs are designed specifically to teach students about the real estate sector. As such, they may provide a more in depth examination of the field.
• MBA – Real Estate programs may provide students with a broad business background. Typically students first take core courses in business and then build out their program with electives in their specialty area.
• MPS Real Estate degrees are professional degrees. Therefore programs may take a more practical approach to course topics, focusing on the application of theory in the real estate market.

Every school designs their master degree in real estate differently. So it’s best to use the above as a guideline and then inquire directly with preferred programs.

What are Types of Masters of Real Estate Programs?

In addition to choosing a type of masters degree in real estate, students may also be able to explore different focus areas. Many masters in real estate programs are general, covering the real estate industry at large. However, others may be designed more narrowly. Common examples include Masters in Real Estate Development (MSRED) programs and the Masters of Real Estate Practice (REP) programs. These may structure coursework around a specific aspect of the industry and allow students to more fully tailor their studies.

Why Attend Real Estate Graduate Programs

Students who pursue Graduate Degrees in Real Estate & Property Management from accredited graduate schools could pursue real estate careers. They might seek work in real estate development firms, insurance companies, banks and financial institutions, real estate investment trusts, regulatory agencies, and more.

While entry level positions in the field do not require graduate degrees, additional knowledge and skills may help jumpstart or enhance a career. Additionally a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance, real estate, or public administration is preferred for commercial management positions. According to BLS, managers of commercial properties and those dealing with a property’s finances and contract management are increasingly finding that they need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance, or real estate management, especially if they do not have practical experience.

GradSchools.com offers 3 Graduate Schools with Graduate Programs in Real Estate & Property Management in Illinois