Real estate is one of the most lucrative and exciting industries out there. It’s a field where you get to help people find their dream homes, and there’s always something new happening that keeps you on your toes. But what exactly is a real estate major called, and what does it entail?
If you’re considering a career in real estate, you’ll want to know all the ins and outs. Fortunately, getting a degree in this field isn’t as complicated as you might think. The major for real estate is typically called “real estate management” or “real estate finance,” and it involves learning everything from property valuation to investment strategies.
Real estate majors can open doors to a variety of career paths, from property management to real estate development. But it’s not just about buying and selling homes. There are also opportunities to work in commercial real estate or become a real estate appraiser. So if you have a passion for working with people and a mind for business, real estate might just be the perfect major for you.
Real Estate Degree Programs
Real estate is a booming market, and with the rise of property development and investment, pursuing a degree in this field has become more popular than ever. A real estate degree program is designed to provide students with essential skills and knowledge required to succeed in this industry. Real estate degrees are typically offered at the bachelor’s or master’s level, and some schools offer real estate concentrations in their business or finance degree programs.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate: This program is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of the real estate field. The curriculum covers topics such as real estate finance, property valuation, urban planning, and real estate law. Students learn how to analyze real estate markets, work on real estate transactions, and become familiar with the financial aspects of the industry.
- Master’s Degree in Real Estate: This program focuses on advanced topics such as real estate investment, asset management, and real estate development. Students learn how to manage commercial and residential properties, analyze property markets, and assess real estate investments. Additionally, students can specialize in areas such as construction management, real estate law, or real estate finance.
- Real Estate Concentrations: Many business or finance degree programs offer a real estate concentration, which allows students to take courses that focus on real estate industry topics. This is an excellent option for students who want to gain some real estate knowledge while pursuing a different degree.
Real estate degree programs provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the real estate industry. Graduates are prepared to become realtors, property managers, real estate developers, and real estate investors. Additionally, real estate degree programs provide graduates with the foundational skills necessary to pursue advanced degrees and certifications such as the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation or the Certified Property Manager (CPM) Certification.
Types of Real Estate Majors
If you are planning on pursuing a career in the field of real estate, you may have heard of a real estate major. This type of major can lead to different career paths, depending on the specific area of study. Here are some of the types of real estate majors that you can choose from:
- Real Estate Development
- Real Estate Finance
- Real Estate Law
- Real Estate Management
Real Estate Development
If you are interested in the design, planning, and construction of real estate properties, then a real estate development major may be the right fit for you. This type of major focuses on the various aspects of developing real estate, such as market analysis, site selection, project management, and sustainability. Graduates of this major can work as developers, construction managers, land use planners, or project consultants.
Real Estate Finance
A real estate finance major is designed for those who want to understand the financial side of real estate. This major covers topics such as real estate investment analysis, property valuation, mortgage lending, and risk management. Graduates of this major can work as real estate analysts, mortgage brokers, investment bankers, or financial advisors.
Real Estate Law
A real estate law major is ideal for those who want to specialize in legal issues related to real estate. This major covers topics such as property rights, landlord-tenant law, land use regulation, and environmental law. Graduates of this major can work as real estate lawyers, title insurance agents, legal consultants, or policymakers.
Real Estate Management
A real estate management major is for those who want to learn how to manage and operate real estate properties. This major covers topics such as property maintenance, tenant relations, lease agreements, and property marketing. Graduates of this major can work as property managers, real estate brokers, leasing agents, or marketing directors.
| Real Estate Major | Career Path |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Development | Developer, Construction Manager, Land Use Planner, Project Consultant |
| Real Estate Finance | Real Estate Analyst, Mortgage Broker, Investment Banker, Financial Advisor |
| Real Estate Law | Real Estate Lawyer, Title Insurance Agent, Legal Consultant, Policymaker |
| Real Estate Management | Property Manager, Real Estate Broker, Leasing Agent, Marketing Director |
No matter which type of real estate major you choose, it is important to keep in mind that the real estate industry is constantly evolving. Therefore, it is essential to stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the field to succeed in your career.
Best Real Estate Colleges
Real estate is a major that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This major prepares students with the skills and knowledge required to work in the real estate industry. Real estate majors learn about property management, real estate appraisal, real estate finance, and real estate law, among other topics. If you’re interested in pursuing a real estate major, attending a top college can make a significant difference in your education and career opportunities. Here are some of the best real estate colleges in the United States:
Top Real Estate Colleges
- University of Pennsylvania: The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is known for its expertise in real estate education. The real estate program at the school provides students with in-depth knowledge of the industry, including real estate finance, equity investment, and portfolio management.
- University of Wisconsin–Madison: The Wisconsin School of Business at the University of Wisconsin–Madison offers an acclaimed undergraduate program in real estate. The program emphasizes hands-on experience-based learning, internships, and a capstone course that involves developing a real estate project from conception to completion.
- New York University: The Schack Institute of Real Estate at New York University is located in one of the world’s largest real estate markets. The institute offers undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs in real estate, including a real estate finance and investment concentration.
Real Estate Career Opportunities
Graduating from a top real estate college can open up numerous career opportunities in the real estate industry. Some popular career paths for real estate majors include:
1. Real Estate Broker – A real estate broker helps clients buy and sell properties. They work closely with clients to determine their needs, preferences, and budget, and then find properties that meet their requirements.
2. Real Estate Developer – Real estate developers are responsible for creating new properties from scratch. They purchase land, oversee the design and construction of new developments, and then market and sell the properties once they’re completed.
3. Real Estate Appraiser – A real estate appraiser evaluates properties to determine their market value. They consider factors such as location, size, and condition of the property to determine its value and generate a detailed report for clients.
4. Real Estate Investor – Real estate investors purchase properties as an investment and rent them out to generate income. They may also buy and sell properties to make a profit.
Real Estate Program Comparison
Here is a comparison table of real estate programs from the top colleges:
| College/University | Program Name | Program Description |
|---|---|---|
| University of Pennsylvania | Real Estate Concentration | A real estate concentration within the finance major that provides students with a detailed understanding of real estate finance, equity investment, and portfolio management. |
| University of Wisconsin–Madison | Real Estate Major | An undergraduate real estate major that provides students with hands-on experience-based learning and a capstone course that involves developing a real estate project from conception to completion. |
| New York University | Real Estate Finance and Investment Concentration | A real estate finance and investment concentration within the MBA program that provides students with a solid understanding of real estate finance, investment, and development. |
Choosing the right real estate college is an important decision that requires careful consideration. With the help of this article, you can make an informed choice and take the first step toward a successful career in the real estate industry.
Real Estate Curriculum
A real estate major is a comprehensive program of study that covers a wide range of topics related to the buying, selling, and managing of real estate properties. It prepares students for a variety of careers in the real estate industry, such as real estate broker, property manager, appraiser, investor, and more.
A typical real estate curriculum includes courses in principles of real estate, law and contracts, real estate finance, appraisal, property management, real estate economics, and real estate development. In addition, some programs offer specialized courses in areas such as sustainability, affordable housing, international real estate, and real estate investment analysis.
- Principles of Real Estate: This course studies the fundamental concepts of real estate, including property ownership, transfer, and use, property rights, public and private restrictions on land use, and legal descriptions of real estate.
- Law and Contracts: This course covers the legal aspects of real estate transactions, including contracts, deeds, titles, zoning ordinances, disclosures, and leases.
- Real Estate Finance: This course provides an overview of the financial principles involved in real estate transactions, including lending, mortgage financing, interest rates, and investment analysis.
- Appraisal: This course teaches students how to determine the value of a property and how to appraise real estate for various purposes, such as financing, sales, and taxation.
- Property Management: This course focuses on the operation and maintenance of real estate properties, including tenant relations, marketing, maintenance, and budgeting.
- Real Estate Economics: This course examines the economic principles that affect real estate markets, such as supply and demand, market cycles, and urban growth patterns.
- Real Estate Development: This course explores the process of real estate development, including site selection, feasibility analysis, design, construction, and marketing.
These courses are typically combined with hands-on experiences such as internships, case studies, and community service projects to provide students with practical skills and knowledge. Some programs also offer opportunities for students to participate in real estate clubs, competitions, and networking events.
The following table shows a sample real estate curriculum for a four-year bachelor’s degree program:
| Year | Fall Semester | Spring Semester |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Principles of Real Estate | Law and Contracts |
| 2 | Real Estate Finance | Appraisal |
| 3 | Property Management | Real Estate Economics |
| 4 | Real Estate Development | Electives |
A real estate major provides students with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills to pursue a rewarding career in the dynamic and ever-changing real estate industry. It also prepares them to be responsible and ethical leaders who contribute to their communities and society at large.
Real Estate Coursework
Real estate is a multifaceted major that covers various aspects of the industry. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the real estate profession. The following are some of the coursework and topics covered in a real estate major:
- Real Estate Principles: This course covers the essential legal and financial concepts in real estate. Students learn about property rights, ownership, transfer, financing, and taxes. They also study the laws that govern real estate transactions and the roles of real estate professionals.
- Real Estate Law: Real estate law focuses on the legal aspects of real estate transactions. Students learn about contract law, title law, zoning regulations, and environmental laws. They also study the legal and ethical responsibilities of real estate professionals.
- Real Estate Finance: This course covers the financial concepts and tools used in real estate investment. Students learn about mortgage financing, capital markets, property valuation, and risk management. They also study the various types of real estate investments, such as commercial, residential, and industrial properties.
- Real Estate Appraisal: Real estate appraisal is the process of estimating the value of a property. Students learn about the methods and techniques used in real estate appraisal, such as market analysis, income approach, and cost approach. They also study the factors that affect the value of a property, such as location, condition, and amenities.
- Real Estate Development: Real estate development is the process of planning, financing, and constructing real estate projects. Students learn about the various stages of real estate development, such as site analysis, feasibility studies, design, construction, and marketing. They also study the social, economic, and environmental impacts of real estate development.
Internship and Career Opportunities
Real estate majors may have the opportunity to take part in internships. Internships enable students to gain practical experience in the real-world setting and develop their professional skills. Real estate majors may intern with real estate agencies, property management firms, real estate investors, or development companies.
Real estate majors can pursue various career paths in the industry. Some common career options include:
- Real Estate Agent/Broker
- Real Estate Appraiser
- Real Estate Developer
- Real Estate Investor
- Property Manager
- Urban Planner
- Real Estate Attorney
Skills Needed to Succeed in Real Estate
Besides academic coursework, successful real estate professionals need to develop specific skills. Some of the skills needed to succeed in real estate include:
- Communication Skills: Real estate professionals need to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. They should be able to listen actively, speak clearly, and write persuasively.
- Negotiation Skills: Real estate professionals often negotiate deals on behalf of their clients. They should be able to understand the needs and interests of both parties and find common ground.
- Sales Skills: Real estate agents need to be able to sell properties and market their services effectively. They should be able to identify the unique selling points of a property and persuade potential buyers.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Real estate professionals need to be able to solve problems and make decisions quickly and effectively. They should be able to analyze complex situations, weigh different options, and take decisive action.
Real Estate Coursework: A Summary
| Course Name | Course Description |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Principles | Covers fundamental legal and financial concepts in real estate. |
| Real Estate Law | Covers the legal aspects of real estate transactions. |
| Real Estate Finance | Covers financial concepts and tools used in real estate investment. |
| Real Estate Appraisal | Covers the methods and techniques used in real estate appraisal. |
| Real Estate Development | Covers the process of planning, financing, and constructing real estate projects. |
Real estate coursework provides students with a solid foundation in the industry’s essentials, including legal and financial frameworks, valuation methods, investment analysis, and development processes. Students will gain practical skills and interact with industry professionals during internships. These hands-on experiences and skill-building will prepare students for a successful career in real estate.
Real Estate Licensing Requirements
In order to become a licensed real estate agent in the United States, there are specific requirements that must be met. These requirements vary by state, but there are some general guidelines that can help you understand what is required. The following subsections will provide a breakdown of the typical licensing requirements, pre-licensing education, and continuing education requirements.
Licensing Requirements
- Age: Most states require that applicants be at least 18 years old
- Residency: Applicants must be a legal resident of the state in which they are applying for a license
- Background Check: Many states require fingerprinting and a criminal background check
- Pre-Licensing Education: Applicants must complete a certain number of hours of pre-licensing education
- Pass a Licensing Exam: After completing pre-licensing education, applicants must pass a state licensing exam
- Insurance: Many states require agents to carry errors and omissions insurance (E&O)
Pre-Licensing Education
Pre-licensing education is an important aspect of becoming a licensed real estate agent. The amount of education required varies by state, but it generally ranges from 40-180 hours. Most pre-licensing education can be completed online, although some states require in-person classroom sessions. The coursework usually covers topics such as:
- Property Ownership and Land Use Controls
- Laws of Agency
- Valuation and Market Analysis
- Contracts
- Real Estate Finance
Continuing Education Requirements
After obtaining a real estate license, most states require agents to complete a certain amount of continuing education (CE) each year or every other year in order to maintain their license. CE requirements are designed to ensure that agents stay up to date on changes in laws and regulations and in their industry. The amount of CE required varies by state, but it typically ranges from 12-36 hours per renewal period. Courses can generally be completed online or in-person and cover a variety of topics related to real estate.
Conclusion
Understanding the real estate licensing requirements in your state is an important first step to becoming a licensed agent. By completing the necessary pre-licensing education, passing the state licensing exam, and meeting continuing education requirements, you can ensure that you are fully qualified to represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions.
| State | Pre-Licensing Hours | Continuing Education Hours |
|---|---|---|
| California | 135 | 45 |
| Texas | 180 | 18 |
| Florida | 63 | 14 |
| New York | 75 | 22.5 |
The table above provides an example of the pre-licensing and continuing education hours required in some of the most populous states in the US.
Real Estate Career Paths
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in real estate, you’ll find that the field is filled with many different career paths to choose from. Whether you’re interested in working in sales or marketing, management, or finance, there’s a niche for you in real estate.
- Residential Sales Agent: As a residential sales agent, you’ll be responsible for assisting buyers and sellers throughout the home buying and selling process. This role requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as knowledge of the local housing market and lending practices.
- Commercial Sales Agent: Commercial sales agents focus on the buying and selling of commercial properties, such as office buildings, retail spaces, and warehouses. This role requires a strong understanding of market trends, as well as the ability to negotiate complex deals.
- Property Manager: As a property manager, you’ll be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of rental properties, including maintaining the property, managing tenant relationships, and handling lease agreements.
- Real Estate Appraiser: Real estate appraisers provide valuations on properties for a variety of purposes, such as mortgage lending, insurance, and tax assessments. This role requires strong analytical skills and knowledge of market trends and property values.
- Mortgage Broker: Mortgage brokers help borrowers find and secure financing for real estate purchases. This role requires a strong knowledge of lending practices and regulations, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Real Estate Developer: Real estate developers oversee the construction or renovation of properties for sale or rent. This role requires strong management skills, as well as knowledge of design and construction processes.
- Real Estate Attorney: Real estate attorneys provide legal services related to real estate transactions, such as drafting purchase agreements, negotiating leases, and resolving disputes. This role requires a strong understanding of real estate law, as well as excellent analytical and communication skills.
Real Estate Education and Training
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in real estate, there are many educational and training programs available to help you gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Many universities offer undergraduate and graduate programs in real estate, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Real Estate Development or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Real Estate. Additionally, there are many professional organizations that offer training and certification programs for specific careers within real estate, such as the National Association of Realtors for residential sales agents or the Institute of Real Estate Management for property managers.
Real Estate Salary Expectations
Real estate salaries can vary widely depending on the specific role, level of experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for real estate brokers and sales agents was $50,730 as of May 2020. However, top earners in the field can earn well above this amount, particularly in high-demand markets or with specialized skills and experience.
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary (May 2020) |
|---|---|
| Residential Sales Agent | $52,410 |
| Commercial Sales Agent | $64,160 |
| Property Manager | $58,760 |
| Real Estate Appraiser | $57,010 |
| Mortgage Broker | $62,620 |
| Real Estate Developer | $97,470 |
| Real Estate Attorney | $126,930 |
Keep in mind that these figures are only estimates and can vary depending on many factors, such as the specific company, location, and level of experience.
What is a Real Estate Major Called FAQs
1. What is a real estate major called?
A real estate major is typically called a Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate, Real Estate Studies, or a similar degree program.
2. What courses are offered in a real estate major?
A real estate major usually consists of courses in property management, real estate law, real estate appraisal, real estate analysis, and real estate finance, among others.
3. What skills can I learn from a real estate major?
A real estate major can teach you valuable skills such as property analysis, negotiation, communication, marketing, and business management.
4. What are the requirements to enroll in a real estate major?
The requirements to enroll in a real estate major may vary between universities, but generally, you need a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification, as well as meeting any additional admission criteria required by the university.
5. What career options are available with a real estate major?
With a real estate major, you can pursue careers in real estate brokerage, property management, real estate appraisal, real estate development, and more.
6. Is a real estate major in demand?
Yes, the real estate industry offers a variety of lucrative careers, and as such, a real estate major is in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for real estate brokers and sales agents is expected to grow 2% from 2019 to 2029.
7. Can I pursue an online real estate major?
Yes, several universities offer online real estate degree programs with the same courses and accreditation as on-campus programs. However, be sure to research the institution’s reputation and accreditation before enrolling.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to learn about what a real estate major is called. Pursuing a degree in real estate can open up a wealth of exciting career opportunities for you. Whether you’re looking to become a real estate agent, broker, property manager, or developer, a real estate major can provide the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. We hope you found this information valuable, and we invite you to visit us again for more interesting articles on various topics.