pexels rdne stock project 8292808

2023 Best Online Master's in Real Estate The Best Real Estate Master's Online

Ready to start your journey?

The popularity of pursuing an online Master’s in Real Estate has increased in recent years due to the growing demand for real estate professionals. 

An online master’s degree in real estate equips you with the necessary expertise and abilities to excel in the ever-changing and captivating realm of real estate. Whether your interests lie in real estate development, investment analysis, property management, or real estate law, this program empowers you by providing the critical knowledge and relevant skills needed to thrive in this dynamic industry. You can conveniently earn your degree while balancing work and personal commitments, thanks to the flexibility of online programs. Learn about the advantages of obtaining an online master’s degree in real estate and the career opportunities it can offer.

Specializations for an Online Master’s in Real Estate

Considering advancing your real estate career? An online master’s degree could be a fantastic choice. This program presents a wealth of valuable insights and skills, equipping you with the necessary tools for success in this fiercely competitive industry. Moreover, you’ll have the opportunity to specialize your studies in various areas of interest. A few online Master’s in Real Estate specializations include:

Commercial Real Estate

If you’re interested in working with commercial properties, like office buildings, retail spaces, or warehouses, this specialization is perfect for you. You will learn about property valuation, investment strategies, leasing agreements, and commercial real estate markets. Additionally, you can grow your understanding of the legal and regulatory framework for commercial real estate transactions, along with the potential risks and challenges associated with commercial real estate investments.

Real Estate Development

In this specialization, you will gain knowledge of the complete real estate development process, including analyzing the market, selecting sites, constructing the property, and managing it. You will learn about building codes, zoning regulations, project management, and construction financing. Also, you will understand the roles of other stakeholders involved in real estate development projects, such as architects, contractors, and government agencies.

Real Estate Finance

This course specializes in the financial aspects of real estate, covering investment analysis, portfolio management, and risk assessment. You will learn about real estate investment trusts (REITs), mortgage-backed securities, and other financial instruments utilized in the real estate industry. Additionally, you can understand the macroeconomic factors that impact markets and the significance of risk management in real estate investment.

Real Estate Law

With this course, you will study the legal aspects of real estate, including property law, contract law, and environmental regulations. You will learn the legal framework governing real estate transactions and disputes. The course will cover common legal real estate documents, such as purchase agreements, lease agreements, and mortgages.

Real Estate Marketing

In this course, you can acquire skills that benefit marketing strategies and techniques. The standard curriculum covers branding, advertising, digital marketing, and social media marketing, specifically tailored for the real estate industry. You also learn about the different marketing channels utilized in real estate, including online listings, property portals, and print media.

Sustainable Real Estate

This specialization covers sustainable building practices, green energy technologies, and environmentally responsible property management. You can learn about energy-efficient design, LEED certification, and other sustainable building standards. This course also focuses on other factors for sustainable real estate, including the cost savings and other benefits of green buildings.

Some online Master’s in Real Estate programs may offer other specialized tracks, such as real estate appraisal, property management, or real estate analytics. When selecting a specialization, consider your career goals and interests since each track may lead to a specific career path within the real estate industry.

Career and Salary Information

Pursuing an online master’s degree in real estate opens up numerous career possibilities within the industry by giving you the necessary skills and knowledge to flourish. Generally, individuals holding an online master’s degree in real estate can anticipate a favorable job outlook. Real estate is a growing industry that offers a wide range of career opportunities. Here are some insights on the average annual salaries for various jobs in the real estate industry.

career and salary information for Online Master's in Real Estate
ProfessionAverage Salary
Real Estate Investment Manager$92,156
Loan Officers$87,681
Real Estate Broker $82,359
Real Estate Sales Agents$78,351
Property and Real Estate Managers$74,663
Property Appraisers and Assessors $60,654

Curriculum and Courses

The content of an online master’s degree program in real estate can differ depending on the school and specific program. However, some courses that are typically part of the curriculum include:

  • Real estate law provides an in-depth understanding of the legal components of real estate transactions and disputes. It covers property law, contract law, and environmental regulations.
  • Real estate finance focuses on the financial aspects of real estate, including investment analysis, portfolio management, and risk assessment.
  • Real estate development covers the entire real estate development process, from market analysis and site selection to construction and property management.
  • Real estate investment provides an overview of the various investment strategies used in real estate, including direct investment, real estate investment trusts (REITs), and mortgage-backed securities.
  • Real estate economics explores the economic factors influencing real estate markets, including supply and demand, interest rates, and demographic trends.
  • Real estate appraisal covers the methods used to value real estate properties, including the income, cost, and sales comparison approaches.
  • Property management focuses on managing residential and commercial properties, including tenant relations, maintenance, repairs, and lease agreements.
  • Real estate analytics courses look at using data analytics and technology in market analysis, property valuation, and risk assessment.

Remember that some online master’s degree programs in real estate may require a capstone project or internship, allowing you to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world problems and projects.

Admissions Requirements for an Online Master’s in Real Estate

The admission criteria for an online master’s degree in real estate can differ depending on the program and institution. Typically, admission to a master’s degree program in real estate requires an undergraduate degree obtained from a regionally accredited university. Some programs may prefer business, finance, or real estate degrees, but others may accept degrees in other fields.

At times, programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0, but others may still consider lower GPAs with relevant work experience or qualifications. Those master’s programs may require work experience in sales, management, or finance.

Applicants for a master’s degree in real estate usually need letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who know them well and can highlight their skills and potential for success in the program.

Some programs require standardized test scores like GRE or GMAT to evaluate a candidate’s abilities. However, not all programs mandate them and may exempt applicants with relevant qualifications or work experience.

Most programs require international students to pass an English language proficiency test like TOEFL or IELTS. This ensures they can understand the course material and fully participate in the program. Some programs offer support services and language courses to help international students succeed.

Accreditation

When selecting an online master’s degree program in real estate, you will want to consider its accreditation. With this process, independent accrediting agencies evaluate the quality of educational institutions and their programs to ensure they meet specific standards of excellence. When selecting an accredited program, you can have the assurance that it upholds exceptional academic standards and rigor. Accreditation for colleges and universities comes in two primary forms: regional and national. This accreditation distinction ensures that the program you choose adheres to rigorous educational criteria.

Typically, regional accreditation is considered more prestigious. The U.S. Department of Education acknowledges six regional accrediting bodies. U.S. Department of Education. Regional accreditation evaluates an institution as a whole and ensures that the program meets specific quality standards in academic programs, faculty qualifications, student services, and institutional resources.

Vocational or technical schools are usually awarded national accreditation. This level of accreditation assesses the quality of individual programs or schools and may have more tailored criteria. 

At times, programs and departments have specialized accreditation. There are three main accreditation bodies for business schools and business programs are the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Specialized accreditation can indicate that a program meets specific real estate standards, such as curriculum content, faculty qualifications, and student learning outcomes.

You can check the program’s website or the U.S. Department of Education’s database to determine if an institution is accredited. Opting for an accredited online master’s degree program in real estate can provide you with top-notch education and better prepare you for a successful career. Accredited graduates may have an advantage with potential employers as it shows they have received a rigorous and high-quality education.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial aid and scholarships can be important factors to consider when pursuing an online master’s degree in real estate. You may need financial assistance to cover educational expenses like tuition and fees. Fortunately, several options are available to help finance an online master’s degree program in real estate.

If you need to suplament costs with financial aid, the initial step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. This form determines your federal financial aid programs like grants, loans, and work-study eligibility. Additionally, most colleges and universities need the FAFSA for consideration for their institutional scholarships and grants.

Besides federal financial aid, numerous private grants and scholarships are accessible for those who want to pursue an online master’s degree in real estate. Financial assistance may come from professional organizations, private foundations, or the educational institution providing the degree program.

Some examples of scholarships and grants that may be available to students pursuing an online master’s degree in real estate include:

  • Real Estate Scholarship by the National Association of Real Estate Brokers
  • Appraisal Institute Education Trust Scholarship
  • The National Council of Real Estate Investment Fiduciaries (NCREIF) Scholarship Program
  • CREW Network Foundation Scholarship Program
  • The Urban Land Institute (ULI) Diversity Scholarship

If you’re looking for additional financial aid, consider exploring other options, such as employer tuition reimbursement or using personal savings. Additionally, you may take out student loans, but carefully review the terms and repayment requirements before committing to any debt.

What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Real Estate?

Online Associates Degree in Real Estate Studies

If you pursue an online master’s degree in real estate, you can open up various career paths in the industry.

Developers identify opportunities to purchase land, obtain financing, and oversee the design and construction of buildings. They may work on residential, commercial, or industrial projects. The role of asset managers involves the effective management and optimization of the value of real estate assets, which encompass diverse properties such as commercial buildings, apartment complexes, and retail centers.

Brokers help buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market by listing properties, negotiating deals, and coordinating transactions. They may specialize in commercial or residential real estate. Investment analysts look at real estate investment opportunities, conduct market research, and assess financial risks and returns.

Property managers oversee the daily operations of real estate properties, including tenant relations, maintenance, and budgeting. Real estate consultants advise clients on various real estate issues, such as market trends, property valuation, and investment strategies. Finally, real estate appraisers assess the value of real estate properties for various purposes, such as buying and selling, refinancing, and tax assessments.

How Much Does an Online Master’s in Real Estate Cost?

The price of earning an online master’s degree in real estate may differ based on multiple factors, including the program’s format, the institution offering the program, and the student’s residency.

The National Center for Education Statistics states that the average tuition and fees for a master’s degree in the United States are roughly $24,000 annually for in-state students and $32,000 annually for out-of-state students.

Remember, the total cost of an online master’s degree in real estate can differ from the average price of traditional in-school classes. Certain online programs may charge lower tuition fees than on-campus programs, while others may charge more due to the convenience of online learning.

Students pursuing an online master’s degree in real estate may have to pay for additional expenses, such as textbooks, technology fees, and other materials. Also, attending in-person residencies or completing fieldwork or internships may be mandatory for some programs, increasing the overall cost of the degree.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master’s in Real Estate?

The duration for completing an online master’s degree in real estate can differ based on various factors, such as the school providing the program, the program’s structure and format, and the student’s learning pace. Typically, most online master’s degree courses in real estate take between 1.5 to 3 years to finish.

There are online programs available that offer accelerated formats to help students complete their degrees in a shorter time frame. These programs may offer 10-week or 12-week courses, allowing students to complete more courses per semester. Alternatively, some programs provide self-paced options, enabling students to progress at their own speed through the program.

Are There Affordable Online Master’s in Real Estate Programs?

Yes, there are affordable online Master’s in Real Estate programs available. In recent times, there has been a noteworthy rise in the availability of online Master’s in Real Estate programs that offer greater affordability compared to their conventional on-campus counterparts. Many universities and colleges that offer these programs have recognized the need to make education more accessible and affordable for students who are seeking to advance their careers in the real estate industry.

In addition to lower tuition rates, some online Master’s in Real Estate programs offer financial incentives like scholarships, grants, or work-study programs to help reduce the cost of earning a degree. These programs can be particularly attractive to students seeking to minimize their student loan debt and wanting to gain the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the real estate industry.

Another way that some online Master’s in Real Estate programs keep costs down is by offering flexible scheduling options. This can allow students to continue working while pursuing their degree, helping offset tuition and other expenses.

Many affordable options exist for students interested in pursuing an online master’s degree in real estate. You can discover a program that aligns with your requirements and budget through thorough research and exploration of various program options.

Is Getting an Online Master’s in Real Estate Worth It?

Investing time, money, and energy into an online master’s degree in real estate can be a valuable step toward launching or advancing your career in the field. Here are some advantages you could gain from earning this degree:

Career AdvancementAdvancing your career in real estate is possible through an online master’s degree. This can provide you with specialized knowledge, enhance your earning potential and increase your competitiveness in the job market.
FlexibilityMaster’s degree programs in real estate that are offered online provide students with greater flexibility compared to traditional on-campus programs. Students can balance their education with other important commitments, such as work and family.
NetworkingEnrolling in an online master’s degree program in real estate can benefit students who wish to expand their network and receive valuable guidance from experienced faculty and alums in the field.
SpecializationOnline master’s degree programs in real estate often provide specialized courses and concentrations, enabling students to customize their academic journey to align with their career aspirations and personal interests.
Industry KnowledgeBy pursuing an online master’s degree in real estate, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the real estate sector, which encompasses contemporary trends, challenges, and effective strategies.

10 of the Best Schools Offering Online Master’s in Real Estate Degrees

We searched nationwide for some of the best online Master’s in Real Estate degree programs. The resulting list of regionally accredited schools is organized alphabetically. 

Auburn University

Auburn University logo

The Master of Real Estate Development at Auburn University aims to provide students with the essential tools required for a thriving career in the real estate industry, placing a special emphasis on sustainable development. The online program encompasses real estate finance, market analysis, and sustainability. Students will have valuable opportunities to engage in real-world projects, gaining practical experience in the field.

Florida International University

Florida International University logo

The MS in International Real Estate at Florida International University is entirely online and offers a comprehensive understanding of the global real estate industry. The program focuses on real estate investment, market analysis, and sustainable development. All online students will be able to network and have the chance to connect with real estate experts worldwide through the program’s industry collaborations.

Florida State University

florida state u

FSU’s MBA with Real Estate Specialization is an online program that merges business and real estate courses to equip students for leadership positions in the industry. It encompasses financial management, real estate law, and market analysis. A notable feature of the program is its inclusion of internships, affording students the valuable opportunity to acquire practical, hands-on experience within the real estate industry. 

Georgetown University

Georgetown University logo

Delivered entirely online, Georgtown’s Master of Professional Studies in Real Estate program offers students a comprehensive grasp of the intricacies and dynamics within the real estate industry. The curriculum at Georgetown University includes real estate finance, development, and market analysis courses. Online students will also be able to participate in events and network with real estate professionals in the industry.

division of distance and distributed learning georgia state university logo 129876

Georgia State University

Georgia State University’s MBA in Real Estate is another online program that prepares students for leadership roles in the real estate industry. With this curriculum, students will take courses in real estate finance, development, and market analysis. As part of the program, students can engage in internships and acquire real-world experience within the real estate industry.

Iowa State University

logo alt

The Master of Real Estate Development is a comprehensive online program that focuses on sustainable development practices. This program is crafted for students who want to understand real estate finance, market analysis, sustainability, and how these areas interact with the real estate industry. The curriculum includes courses that cover real estate investment analysis, land use planning, and real estate law. 

Liberty University

liberty university

LU’s Master of Business Administration in Real Estate Development equips students with the essential skills to assume leadership roles within the real estate industry. By blending business and real estate courses, it encompasses financial management, real estate law, and market analysis. Furthermore, students will have valuable opportunities to acquire practical real estate experience through participation in internships.

Longwood University

longwood university logo 7204

The Master of Business Administration with Real Estate Concentration at Longwood University takes pride in being entirely online, providing students with the necessary skills to take on industry leadership positions. The program boasts comprehensive courses on real estate finance, development, and market analysis. Also, these online master’s degree students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through various internships.

University of Arizona logo wiki

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona’s Master of Real Estate Development is an all-encompassing online program that ensures students are well-equipped with the necessary expertise and knowledge to excel in the real estate industry. It covers various critical topics, such as real estate finance, market analysis, and sustainable development. This program ensures students are prepared for any potential challenges they may face in their careers.

University of Denver

images 1 2

The MS in Real Estate and Construction Management program is available entirely online. This program offers students a thorough education on the real estate and construction industries. It covers topics like real estate finance, construction management, and sustainable development. Upon graduating from this program, people are well-equipped to pursue a variety of careers in real estate and construction management. These roles include development, investment analysis, property management, and construction project management.

Getting Your Online Master’s in Real Estate

The real estate industry is a growing sector that offers many exciting career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in real estate development, property management, commercial real estate brokerage, or real estate law, pursuing an online master’s degree in real estate can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this field.

An online master’s degree in real estate offers you plenty of flexibility. With online programs, you can attend classes from anywhere or at any time, helping you balance your studies with work and personal commitments. This is especially beneficial if you want to advance your career in real estate while still working.

If you want to obtain an online master’s degree in real estate, choose a reputable program that offers quality coursework and practical experiences. Look for programs that reputable organizations accredit. Make sure the coursework has experienced faculty members and provides opportunities for students to gain real-world experience.

When you get an online master’s degree in real estate, it can be a great investment to advance your career in the real estate industry. With the flexibility of online programs, quality coursework, and practical experiences, you can get the education needed to boost your career.

Ready to start your journey?

Ready to start your journey?