50 Best MBA Programs in Real Estate for 2025

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MBA Programs in Real Estate
Tuition, ROI, Graduate Salary, GMAT Requirements

10 Best Ranked | Interactive Table | Salaries | Tuition | ROI | GMAT | Alumni Networking | How We Rank

$101,427

Average Tuition – Real Estate MBA Programs

$103,140

Average Starting Salary – Real Estate MBA Programs

599

Average GMAT Scores – Real Estate MBA Programs

120%

Average ROI – Finance MBA Programs

Executive Summary for MBA Programs in Real Estate MBA Programs

The ranking team at MBAGuide.org, evaluated 78 Real Estate MBA programs. Here is a summary of our comprehensive findings. Explore the details about the Real Estate MBA, compare schools, find states and cities where the degree is offered.

  • Starting salary for new MBA graduates in Real Estate is between $45,882 and $205,000 with an average of $103,140.
  • Campus tuition in for Real Estate MBAs ranges between $11,950 to $2,682,042, with an average total tuition cost of $101,427
  • ROI for campus MBA programs in Real Estate ranges between -32% to 410%, with an average ROI return of 120%
  • A GMAT score between 442 and 732 with an average of 599 is needed for acceptance into an MBA program in Real Estate.
  • There are 78 campus and 62 online MBA Real Estate Programs.
  • Average student enrollment varies between 6 and 1,679 with an overall average of 429.
  • Student / Faculty Ratio for MBA programs offering a Real Estate concentration varies between 6:1 and 47:1 with an average of 19:1 students.
  • 79 MBA programs in Real Estate are ranked by the following institutions MBAGuide: 75, US News: 33, Forbes: 26, BW: 27, Economist: 18 and FT: 15.
  1. Comprehensive comparisons, data and analysis – MBAGuide conducted an in-depth analysis of 78 AACSB-accredited campus MBA programs in Real Estate to find the top programs in the country.
  2. Ranking metrics you care about – such as average starting salaries, tuition fees, return on investment (ROI), GMAT scores, alumni networks, student-to-faculty ratios, and more with no paywall.
  3. Detailed school profiles of Real Estate MBA programs their strengths, faculty expertise, alumni networks to help align your program choice

Best 10 MBA Programs in Real Estate

Harvard University

Harvard Business School

Location:

  • Allston

,

  • MA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $78,700
  • Graduate Salary: $205,000
  • Graduate ROI: 260%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 740
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 7:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 1,945

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • MBA

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • Concentrations: 10
  • Consulting
  • Data Analytics
  • E-Commerce
  • Economics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Ethics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nonprofit
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Public Administration
  • Real Estate
  • Science and Technology
  • Sports Management
  • Statistics
  • Supply Chain
  • Taxation
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 3
  • Best in:

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Wisconsin School of Business

Location:

  • Madison

,

  • WI

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $36,921
  • Graduate Salary: $159,583
  • Graduate ROI: 432%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 688
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 9:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 4,414

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 17
  • Accounting
  • Actuarial Science
  • Arts
  • Consulting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Ethics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Insurance
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Other
  • Real Estate
  • Supply Chain
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 5
  • Online Rank: 3
  • Best in:

Northwestern University

Kellogg School of Management

Location:

  • Evanston

,

  • IL

Control: Private

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $86,370
  • Graduate Salary: $170,000
  • Graduate ROI: 196%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 731
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 9:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 3,074

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • MBA

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • Concentrations: 21
  • Accounting
  • Communications
  • Data Analytics
  • E-Commerce
  • Economics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Financial Management
  • General Business
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Information Systems
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Public Administration
  • Real Estate
  • Science and Technology
  • Statistics
  • Sustainability
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 6
  • Best in:

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Kenan-Flagler Business School

Location:

  • Chapel Hill

,

  • NC

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $55,416
  • Graduate Salary: $140,490
  • Graduate ROI: 253%
  • GMAT Required: No
  • Avg. GMAT: 707
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 13:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 2,820

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 13
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Ethics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Information Systems
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Project Management
  • Real Estate
  • Supply Chain
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 7
  • Online Rank: 4
  • Best in:

The University of Georgia

Terry College of Business

Location:

  • Athens

,

  • GA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $15,334
  • Graduate Salary: $149,000
  • Graduate ROI: 971%
  • GMAT Required: No
  • Avg. GMAT: 698
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 6:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 9,895

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 12
  • Accounting
  • Actuarial Science
  • Arts
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Insurance
  • International Business
  • Law
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Real Estate
  • Science and Technology
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 10
  • Online Rank: 6
  • Best in:

University of South Carolina

Darla Moore School of Business

Location:

  • Columbia

,

  • SC

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $31,014
  • Graduate Salary: $105,000
  • Graduate ROI: 338%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 640
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 15:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 6,369

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 8
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Insurance
  • International Business
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Other
  • Real Estate
  • Supply Chain
  • Taxation
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 11
  • Best in:

Emory University

Goizueta Business School

Location:

  • Atlanta

,

  • GA

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $153,800
  • Graduate Salary: $121,380
  • Graduate ROI: 78%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 705
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 2:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 2,808

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 23
  • Accounting
  • Consulting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • Global Management
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Information Systems
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Product Management
  • Real Estate
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 2
  • National Rank: 14
  • Best in:

Columbia University

Columbia Business School

Location:

  • New York

,

  • NY

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $91,172
  • Graduate Salary: $205,000
  • Graduate ROI: 224%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 729
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 6:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 4,036

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • Concentrations: 17
  • Accounting
  • Economics
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Ethics
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Information Systems
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nonprofit
  • Operations Management
  • Real Estate
  • Science and Technology
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 15
  • Best in:

Southern Methodist University

Edwin L. Cox School of Business

Location:

  • Dallas

,

  • TX

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $63,084
  • Graduate Salary: $129,150
  • Graduate ROI: 204%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 710
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 11:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 4,332

Degree Level(s):

  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 12
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • Financial Management
  • General Business
  • Information Systems
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Real Estate
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 3
  • National Rank: 17
  • Online Rank: 8
  • Best in:

Georgetown University

McDonough School of Business

Location:

  • Washington

,

  • DC

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $70,108
  • Graduate Salary: $181,854
  • Graduate ROI: 250%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 696
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
  • Business School Enrollment: 3,058

Degree Level(s):

  • E-MBA
  • ·
  • Master
  • ·
  • MBA
  • ·
  • Undergraduate

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 6
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • E-Commerce
  • Ethics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nonprofit
  • Operations Management
  • Other
  • Real Estate
  • Science and Technology
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 20
  • Online Rank: 10
  • Best in:

Interactive Table of the Best Ranked MBA Programs in Real Estate

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Real Estate MBA programs by RankSchool NameROITuitionAverage Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Real Estate. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University ROIIn State TuitionAvg. Starting SalaryStateOnline
1 Harvard University 260.00% $78,700 $205,000MANo
2 University of Wisconsin-Madison 432.00% $36,921 $159,583WIYes
3 Northwestern University 196.00% $86,370 $170,000ILNo
4 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 253.00% $55,416 $140,490NCYes
5 The University of Georgia 971.00% $15,334 $149,000GAYes
6 University of South Carolina 338.00% $31,014 $105,000SCNo
7 Emory University 78.00% $153,800 $121,380GANo
8 Columbia University 224.00% $91,172 $205,000NYNo
9 Southern Methodist University 204.00% $63,084 $129,150TXYes
10 Georgetown University 250.00% $70,108 $181,854DCYes
11 University of California, Berkeley 253.00% $76,788 $194,740CANo
12 University of St. Thomas-Minnesota 334.00% $28,080 $94,000MNYes
13 University of Florida 422.00% $30,771 $130,000FLYes
14 The Pennsylvania State University 135.00% $84,576 $115,000PAYes
15 University of Illinois at Chicago 537.00% $18,792 $101,000ILYes
16 American University 219.00% $49,220 $108,000DCYes
17 Vanderbilt University 201.00% $74,500 $150,246TNNo
18 Texas A&M University 211.00% $63,000 $133,075TXNo
19 Cornell University 94.00% $173,192 $161,967NYNo
20 Arizona State University 170.00% $63,000 $107,220AZYes
21 University of California, Davis 191.00% $51,297 $98,000CAYes
22 University of Utah 392.00% $30,600 $120,000UTYes
23 Baruch College-The City University of New York 531.00% $19,200 $102,000NYYes
24 Temple University 460.00% $21,984 $101,659PAYes
25 University of Cincinnati 478.00% $23,000 $110,000OHYes
26 Georgia State University 195.00% $44,750 $87,439GAYes
27 The Ohio State University 475.00% $31,316 $149,006OHYes
28 University of Colorado at Boulder 170.00% $63,089 $108,510COYes
29 The University of Memphis 186.00% $24,552 $45,882TNYes
30 Villanova University 130.00% $64,800 $84,880PAYes
31 University of Miami 153.00% $121,980 $187,504FLYes
32 Middle Tennessee State University 395.00% $22,506 $89,000TNYes
33 University of Nevada, Las Vegas 616.00% $17,031 $105,000NVYes
34 University of Houston 159.00% $56,000 $89,273TXYes
35 Johns Hopkins Carey Business School 82.00% $144,000 $118,758MDYes
36 Miami University -32.00% $37,800 $92,700OHYes
37 University of San Diego 89.00% $77,625 $68,860CAYes
38 Syracuse University 109.00% $105,030 $114,812NYYes
39 Iowa State University 207.00% $40,512 $83,986IAYes
40 The University of Texas at Arlington 652.00% $11,950 $78,000TXYes
41 University of Missouri-Kansas City 285.00% $17,568 $50,167MONo
42 Colorado State University 220.00% $42,430 $94,300COYes
43 Seaver College 149.00% $80,415 $120,000CAYes
44 Drexel University 123.00% $55,145 $68,333PAYes
45 University of Denver 101.00% $96,000 $97,229COYes
46 Portland State University 183.00% $41,974 $76,825ORYes
47 University of Baltimore 216.00% $35,802 $77,400MDYes
48 Chapman University 83.00% $103,750 $86,572CANo
49 Marquette University 82.00% $144,000 $118,758WIYes
50 California State University, Los Angeles 430.00% $23,004 $99,100CANo
51 Auburn University 297.00% $29,653 $88,322ALYes
52 University of Central Oklahoma 402.00% $15,500 $62,400OKYes
53 Virginia Commonwealth University 349.00% $24,300 $85,000VAYes
54 Central Michigan University 193.00% $32,472 $62,900MIYes
55 University of Missouri 100.00% $49,612 $83,500MOYes
56 University of North Carolina at Charlotte 305.00% $34,176 $104,303NCYes
57 University of the District of Columbia 338.00% $33,948 $115,000DCNo
58 Montclair State University 351.00% $2,682,042 $94,300NJYes
59 Old Dominion University 355.00% $26,273 $93,381VAYes
60 Florida State University 240.00% $41,520 $100,000FLYes
61 University of Nebraska at Omaha 410.00% $13,893 $89,200NEYes
62 San Diego State University 223.00% $41,355 $92,454CAYes
63 University of Connecticut 200.00% $50,400 $101,501CTYes
64 University of Alabama at Birmingham 485.00% $14,184 $68,800ALYes
65 California State University, Northridge 151.00% $30,897 $77,400CANo
66 DePaul University 120.00% $71,520 $86,000ILYes
67 College of Charleston 192.00% $38,880 $75,008SCYes
68 California State University, San Bernardino 275.00% $31,416 $86,596CAYes
69 St. Cloud State University 16,000.00% $78,003 $125,414MNYes
70 Nova Southeastern University 105.00% $40,663 $90,756FLYes
71 The University of Mississippi 508.00% $14,850 $75,537MSYes
72 University of Northern Iowa 277.00% $18,344 $50,856IANo
73 University of Central Florida 521.00% $1,441,635 $75,200FLNo
74 The University of Texas at San Antonio 318.00% $24,512 $78,000TXYes
75 University of North Texas 211.00% $40,600 $86,000TXYes
76 Florida International University 272.00% $21,139 $57,511FLYes
77 University of South Alabama 242.00% $15,150 $49,200ALYes
78 Nichols College 190.00% $28,440 $55,392MAYes
79 Coastal Carolina University 184.00% $34,380 $52,500SCYes

An MBA program in Real Estate will cost you between $11,950.00 to $2,682,042.00.

  • Number of Programs Offering Real Estate MBAs: 78
  • Average GMAT Score for Real Estate MBA Programs: 599
  • Average In-State Tuition for Real Estate MBA Programs: $101,426.65
  • Average Graduate Salary for Real Estate MBA Programs: $103,140
  • Average ROI for Real Estate MBA Programs: 120%

Compare Real Estate MBA Program Averages vs Campus

 AveragesMBA ProgramsOnline MBA Programs
Number of Programs7862
Average Starting Salary$103,140$97,578
Average MBA Tuition$101,427
$87,540
Average ROI120%126%
Average GMAT Scores599
589
Average Full-Time MBA Faculty109109
Average MBA Student Faculty Ratio19:120:1
Faculty with Doctorate84%84%
Average Full-Time MBA Enrollment429429
Average Part-Time MBA Enrollment322349
Average % of MBA Students from U.S.84%84%

Read about our ranking methodology.

What is the Average MBA Salary for Real Estate Graduates?

Though it’s not the only factor, compensation is an important consideration for individuals considering obtaining an MBA degree. Salaries for graduates with master’s degrees in Real Estate can be significantly higher than those of graduates with only a bachelor’s degree. In addition, advance salary projections from the US Department of Labor show that average MBA salaries are expected to increase by 13.5% each year through the year 2028 with an annual need of 99,000 new managers needed each year.

MBA salaries differs wildly depending on the program you chose, the industry you enter and the experience you have. After earning an MBA from The University of Memphis, the average MBA graduate annual salary is $45,882 . A degree from Harvard University, will provide an annual salary of $205,000.

Average MBA starting salary for graduates from accredited programs is $103,140 with the lowest of starting of $45,882 and the highest reported starting salary of $205,000.

Average Graduate Salaries for In-Person Real Estate MBA Programs

  • Average Real Estate: $103,140
  • Lowest Real Estate: $45,882
  • Highest Real Estate: $205,000

10 Highest Salaries for In-Person MBA Graduates in Real Estate

  1. Harvard University - $205,000.00
  2. Columbia University - $205,000.00
  3. University of California, Berkeley - $194,740.00
  4. University of Miami - $187,504.00
  5. Georgetown University - $181,854.00
  6. Northwestern University - $170,000.00
  7. Cornell University - $161,967.00
  8. University of Wisconsin-Madison - $159,583.00
  9. Vanderbilt University - $150,246.00
  10. The Ohio State University - $149,006.00

10 Lowest Salaries for In-Person MBA Graduates in Real Estate

  1. The University of Memphis - $45,882.00
  2. University of South Alabama - $49,200.00
  3. University of Missouri-Kansas City - $50,167.00
  4. University of Northern Iowa - $50,856.00
  5. Coastal Carolina University - $52,500.00
  6. Nichols College - $55,392.00
  7. Florida International University - $57,511.00
  8. University of Central Oklahoma - $62,400.00
  9. Central Michigan University - $62,900.00
  10. Drexel University - $68,333.00

Average Salary for Graduate of MBA Programs in Real Estate Programs – Interactive Table

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Real Estate MBA programs by Starting Salary, and Campus or Online to find and to compare MBA programs in Real Estate. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University Avg. Starting SalaryIn State TuitionROIStateOnline
1 The University of Memphis $45,882 $24,552 186.00%TNYes
2 University of South Alabama $49,200 $15,150 242.00%ALYes
3 University of Missouri-Kansas City $50,167 $17,568 285.00%MONo
4 University of Northern Iowa $50,856 $18,344 277.00%IANo
5 Coastal Carolina University $52,500 $34,380 184.00%SCYes
6 Nichols College $55,392 $28,440 190.00%MAYes
7 Florida International University $57,511 $21,139 272.00%FLYes
8 University of Central Oklahoma $62,400 $15,500 402.00%OKYes
9 Central Michigan University $62,900 $32,472 193.00%MIYes
10 Drexel University $68,333 $55,145 123.00%PAYes
11 University of Alabama at Birmingham $68,800 $14,184 485.00%ALYes
12 University of San Diego $68,860 $77,625 89.00%CAYes
13 College of Charleston $75,008 $38,880 192.00%SCYes
14 University of Central Florida $75,200 $1,441,635 521.00%FLNo
15 The University of Mississippi $75,537 $14,850 508.00%MSYes
16 Portland State University $76,825 $41,974 183.00%ORYes
17 California State University, Northridge $77,400 $30,897 151.00%CANo
17 University of Baltimore $77,400 $35,802 216.00%MDYes
19 The University of Texas at Arlington $78,000 $11,950 652.00%TXYes
19 The University of Texas at San Antonio $78,000 $24,512 318.00%TXYes
21 University of Missouri $83,500 $49,612 100.00%MOYes
22 Iowa State University $83,986 $40,512 207.00%IAYes
23 Villanova University $84,880 $64,800 130.00%PAYes
24 Virginia Commonwealth University $85,000 $24,300 349.00%VAYes
25 DePaul University $86,000 $71,520 120.00%ILYes
25 University of North Texas $86,000 $40,600 211.00%TXYes
27 Chapman University $86,572 $103,750 83.00%CANo
28 California State University, San Bernardino $86,596 $31,416 275.00%CAYes
29 Georgia State University $87,439 $44,750 195.00%GAYes
30 Auburn University $88,322 $29,653 297.00%ALYes
31 Middle Tennessee State University $89,000 $22,506 395.00%TNYes
32 University of Nebraska at Omaha $89,200 $13,893 410.00%NEYes
33 University of Houston $89,273 $56,000 159.00%TXYes
34 Nova Southeastern University $90,756 $40,663 105.00%FLYes
35 San Diego State University $92,454 $41,355 223.00%CAYes
36 Miami University $92,700 $37,800 -32.00%OHYes
37 Old Dominion University $93,381 $26,273 355.00%VAYes
38 University of St. Thomas-Minnesota $94,000 $28,080 334.00%MNYes
39 Colorado State University $94,300 $42,430 220.00%COYes
39 Montclair State University $94,300 $2,682,042 351.00%NJYes
41 University of Denver $97,229 $96,000 101.00%COYes
42 University of California, Davis $98,000 $51,297 191.00%CAYes
43 California State University, Los Angeles $99,100 $23,004 430.00%CANo
44 Florida State University $100,000 $41,520 240.00%FLYes
45 University of Illinois at Chicago $101,000 $18,792 537.00%ILYes
46 University of Connecticut $101,501 $50,400 200.00%CTYes
47 Temple University $101,659 $21,984 460.00%PAYes
48 Baruch College-The City University of New York $102,000 $19,200 531.00%NYYes
49 University of North Carolina at Charlotte $104,303 $34,176 305.00%NCYes
50 University of South Carolina $105,000 $31,014 338.00%SCNo

What is the Average In-Person MBA Tuition for Real Estate Programs?


If you plan on attending an MBA program, it’s best to start thinking about fiscal responsibility. A prospective B-Student needs to weigh their tuition options. An AACSB-accredited MBA program can pave the way for a great starting salary or career advancement. An MBA program can provide the flexibility of completing a program while being employed in your respective career.

The average in-state tuition for an MBA in Real Estate is $101,426.65 compared to an average campus program Real Estate is $101,426.65 .

The lowest AACSB tuition rate at $11,950.00 from The University of Texas at Arlington.

The highest AACSB tuition rate is $2,682,042.00 from Montclair State University.

Average Tuition for In-Person MBA Programs in Real Estate

10 Most Affordable MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. The University of Texas at Arlington - $11,950.00
  2. University of Nebraska at Omaha - $13,893.00
  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham - $14,184.00
  4. The University of Mississippi - $14,850.00
  5. University of South Alabama - $15,150.00
  6. The University of Georgia - $15,334.00
  7. University of Central Oklahoma - $15,500.00
  8. University of Nevada, Las Vegas - $17,031.00
  9. University of Missouri-Kansas City - $17,568.00
  10. University of Northern Iowa - $18,344.00

10 Most Expensive MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. Montclair State University - $2,682,042.00
  2. University of Central Florida - $1,441,635.00
  3. Cornell University - $173,192.00
  4. Emory University - $153,800.00
  5. Johns Hopkins Carey Business School - $144,000.00
  6. Marquette University - $144,000.00
  7. University of Miami - $121,980.00
  8. Syracuse University - $105,030.00
  9. Chapman University - $103,750.00
  10. University of Denver - $96,000.00

Interactive Table – Tuition for MBA Programs in Real Estate Programs

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Real Estate MBA programs by Tuition to find and to compare MBA programs in Real Estate. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University In State TuitionAvg. Starting SalaryROIStateOnline
1 The University of Texas at Arlington $11,950 $78,000 652.00%TXYes
2 University of Nebraska at Omaha $13,893 $89,200 410.00%NEYes
3 University of Alabama at Birmingham $14,184 $68,800 485.00%ALYes
4 The University of Mississippi $14,850 $75,537 508.00%MSYes
5 University of South Alabama $15,150 $49,200 242.00%ALYes
6 The University of Georgia $15,334 $149,000 971.00%GAYes
7 University of Central Oklahoma $15,500 $62,400 402.00%OKYes
8 University of Nevada, Las Vegas $17,031 $105,000 616.00%NVYes
9 University of Missouri-Kansas City $17,568 $50,167 285.00%MONo
10 University of Northern Iowa $18,344 $50,856 277.00%IANo
11 University of Illinois at Chicago $18,792 $101,000 537.00%ILYes
12 Baruch College-The City University of New York $19,200 $102,000 531.00%NYYes
13 Florida International University $21,139 $57,511 272.00%FLYes
14 Temple University $21,984 $101,659 460.00%PAYes
15 Middle Tennessee State University $22,506 $89,000 395.00%TNYes
16 University of Cincinnati $23,000 $110,000 478.00%OHYes
17 California State University, Los Angeles $23,004 $99,100 430.00%CANo
18 Virginia Commonwealth University $24,300 $85,000 349.00%VAYes
19 The University of Texas at San Antonio $24,512 $78,000 318.00%TXYes
20 The University of Memphis $24,552 $45,882 186.00%TNYes
21 Old Dominion University $26,273 $93,381 355.00%VAYes
22 University of St. Thomas-Minnesota $28,080 $94,000 334.00%MNYes
23 Nichols College $28,440 $55,392 190.00%MAYes
24 Auburn University $29,653 $88,322 297.00%ALYes
25 University of Utah $30,600 $120,000 392.00%UTYes
26 University of Florida $30,771 $130,000 422.00%FLYes
27 California State University, Northridge $30,897 $77,400 151.00%CANo
28 University of South Carolina $31,014 $105,000 338.00%SCNo
29 The Ohio State University $31,316 $149,006 475.00%OHYes
30 California State University, San Bernardino $31,416 $86,596 275.00%CAYes
31 Central Michigan University $32,472 $62,900 193.00%MIYes
32 University of the District of Columbia $33,948 $115,000 338.00%DCNo
33 University of North Carolina at Charlotte $34,176 $104,303 305.00%NCYes
34 Coastal Carolina University $34,380 $52,500 184.00%SCYes
35 University of Baltimore $35,802 $77,400 216.00%MDYes
36 University of Wisconsin-Madison $36,921 $159,583 432.00%WIYes
37 Miami University $37,800 $92,700 -32.00%OHYes
38 College of Charleston $38,880 $75,008 192.00%SCYes
39 Iowa State University $40,512 $83,986 207.00%IAYes
40 University of North Texas $40,600 $86,000 211.00%TXYes
41 Nova Southeastern University $40,663 $90,756 105.00%FLYes
42 San Diego State University $41,355 $92,454 223.00%CAYes
43 Florida State University $41,520 $100,000 240.00%FLYes
44 Portland State University $41,974 $76,825 183.00%ORYes
45 Colorado State University $42,430 $94,300 220.00%COYes
46 Georgia State University $44,750 $87,439 195.00%GAYes
47 American University $49,220 $108,000 219.00%DCYes
48 University of Missouri $49,612 $83,500 100.00%MOYes
49 University of Connecticut $50,400 $101,501 200.00%CTYes
50 University of California, Davis $51,297 $98,000 191.00%CAYes

What is the Average ROI for MBA Programs in Real Estate?

Choosing an MBA program requires more than a glance at the school’s reputation or curriculum. The return on investment (ROI) should take center stage in your evaluation. This measurement reveals the potential value derived from your tuition investment, putting key factors such as starting salary and career progression under the microscope.

By scrutinizing the ROI, you’re not just making a decision—you’re making an informed one. This approach will ensure the selection of an MBA program that provides the most bang for your buck. Checking the ROI might not be an afterthought; it could be the game-changer in your MBA journey.

For MBA programs in across the U.S., the ROI ranges from -32% to 410%.The lowest MBA ROI of -32% is from the program at Miami University.The highest MBA ROI of 410% is offered by St. Cloud State University.On average, MBA programs across the U.S. have an ROI of 186%.

Interactive Table – ROI for MBA Programs in Real Estate Programs

Easily sort the interactive table below to find the best Real Estate MBA programs by ROI to find and to compare MBA programs in Real Estate. Click on any school for a comprehensive school profile.

Rank University ROIIn State TuitionAvg. Starting SalaryStateOnline
1 St. Cloud State University 16,000.00% $78,003 $125,414MNYes
2 The University of Georgia 971.00% $15,334 $149,000GAYes
3 The University of Texas at Arlington 652.00% $11,950 $78,000TXYes
4 University of Nevada, Las Vegas 616.00% $17,031 $105,000NVYes
5 University of Illinois at Chicago 537.00% $18,792 $101,000ILYes
6 Baruch College-The City University of New York 531.00% $19,200 $102,000NYYes
7 University of Central Florida 521.00% $1,441,635 $75,200FLNo
8 The University of Mississippi 508.00% $14,850 $75,537MSYes
9 University of Alabama at Birmingham 485.00% $14,184 $68,800ALYes
10 University of Cincinnati 478.00% $23,000 $110,000OHYes
11 The Ohio State University 475.00% $31,316 $149,006OHYes
12 Temple University 460.00% $21,984 $101,659PAYes
13 University of Wisconsin-Madison 432.00% $36,921 $159,583WIYes
14 California State University, Los Angeles 430.00% $23,004 $99,100CANo
15 University of Florida 422.00% $30,771 $130,000FLYes
16 University of Nebraska at Omaha 410.00% $13,893 $89,200NEYes
17 University of Central Oklahoma 402.00% $15,500 $62,400OKYes
18 Middle Tennessee State University 395.00% $22,506 $89,000TNYes
19 University of Utah 392.00% $30,600 $120,000UTYes
20 Old Dominion University 355.00% $26,273 $93,381VAYes
21 Montclair State University 351.00% $2,682,042 $94,300NJYes
22 Virginia Commonwealth University 349.00% $24,300 $85,000VAYes
23 University of the District of Columbia 338.00% $33,948 $115,000DCNo
23 University of South Carolina 338.00% $31,014 $105,000SCNo
25 University of St. Thomas-Minnesota 334.00% $28,080 $94,000MNYes
26 The University of Texas at San Antonio 318.00% $24,512 $78,000TXYes
27 University of North Carolina at Charlotte 305.00% $34,176 $104,303NCYes
28 Auburn University 297.00% $29,653 $88,322ALYes
29 University of Missouri-Kansas City 285.00% $17,568 $50,167MONo
30 University of Northern Iowa 277.00% $18,344 $50,856IANo
31 California State University, San Bernardino 275.00% $31,416 $86,596CAYes
32 Florida International University 272.00% $21,139 $57,511FLYes
33 Harvard University 260.00% $78,700 $205,000MANo
34 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 253.00% $55,416 $140,490NCYes
34 University of California, Berkeley 253.00% $76,788 $194,740CANo
36 Georgetown University 250.00% $70,108 $181,854DCYes
37 University of South Alabama 242.00% $15,150 $49,200ALYes
38 Florida State University 240.00% $41,520 $100,000FLYes
39 Columbia University 224.00% $91,172 $205,000NYNo
40 San Diego State University 223.00% $41,355 $92,454CAYes
41 Colorado State University 220.00% $42,430 $94,300COYes
42 American University 219.00% $49,220 $108,000DCYes
43 University of Baltimore 216.00% $35,802 $77,400MDYes
44 Texas A&M University 211.00% $63,000 $133,075TXNo
44 University of North Texas 211.00% $40,600 $86,000TXYes
46 Iowa State University 207.00% $40,512 $83,986IAYes
47 Southern Methodist University 204.00% $63,084 $129,150TXYes
48 Vanderbilt University 201.00% $74,500 $150,246TNNo
49 University of Connecticut 200.00% $50,400 $101,501CTYes
50 Northwestern University 196.00% $86,370 $170,000ILNo
51 Georgia State University 195.00% $44,750 $87,439GAYes
52 Central Michigan University 193.00% $32,472 $62,900MIYes
53 College of Charleston 192.00% $38,880 $75,008SCYes
54 University of California, Davis 191.00% $51,297 $98,000CAYes
55 Nichols College 190.00% $28,440 $55,392MAYes
56 The University of Memphis 186.00% $24,552 $45,882TNYes
57 Coastal Carolina University 184.00% $34,380 $52,500SCYes
58 Portland State University 183.00% $41,974 $76,825ORYes
59 Arizona State University 170.00% $63,000 $107,220AZYes
59 University of Colorado at Boulder 170.00% $63,089 $108,510COYes
61 University of Houston 159.00% $56,000 $89,273TXYes
62 University of Miami 153.00% $121,980 $187,504FLYes
63 California State University, Northridge 151.00% $30,897 $77,400CANo
64 Seaver College 149.00% $80,415 $120,000CAYes
65 The Pennsylvania State University 135.00% $84,576 $115,000PAYes
66 Villanova University 130.00% $64,800 $84,880PAYes
67 Drexel University 123.00% $55,145 $68,333PAYes
68 DePaul University 120.00% $71,520 $86,000ILYes
69 Syracuse University 109.00% $105,030 $114,812NYYes
70 Nova Southeastern University 105.00% $40,663 $90,756FLYes
71 University of Denver 101.00% $96,000 $97,229COYes
72 University of Missouri 100.00% $49,612 $83,500MOYes
73 Cornell University 94.00% $173,192 $161,967NYNo
74 University of San Diego 89.00% $77,625 $68,860CAYes
75 Chapman University 83.00% $103,750 $86,572CANo
76 Johns Hopkins Carey Business School 82.00% $144,000 $118,758MDYes
76 Marquette University 82.00% $144,000 $118,758WIYes
78 Emory University 78.00% $153,800 $121,380GANo

ROI for MBA Programs

  • Average: 186%
  • Lowest: -32%
  • Highest: 410%

10 Highest ROI for MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. St. Cloud State University - 16,000.00%
  2. The University of Georgia - 971.00%
  3. The University of Texas at Arlington - 652.00%
  4. University of Nevada, Las Vegas - 616.00%
  5. University of Illinois at Chicago - 537.00%
  6. Baruch College-The City University of New York - 531.00%
  7. University of Central Florida - 521.00%
  8. The University of Mississippi - 508.00%
  9. University of Alabama at Birmingham - 485.00%
  10. University of Cincinnati - 478.00%

10 Lowest ROI for MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. Emory University - 78.00%
  2. Johns Hopkins Carey Business School - 82.00%
  3. Marquette University - 82.00%
  4. Chapman University - 83.00%
  5. University of San Diego - 89.00%
  6. Cornell University - 94.00%
  7. University of Missouri - 100.00%
  8. University of Denver - 101.00%
  9. Nova Southeastern University - 105.00%
  10. Syracuse University - 109.00%

What is the Average GMAT Score Needed for an MBA Program in Real Estate?

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized examination used by MBA schools to assess their applicant pool. The test is strategically designed to measure an applicant’s analytical, verbal, writing and mathematical skills. The GMAT is used as a predictor of success in MBA programs and tests one’s ability to successfully handle the advanced quantitative and qualitative study of business and management.

Even though some B-Schools may not require a GMAT Scores, there’s a good chance that a highly-competitive MBA program does require the GMAT. With that being said, average GMAT Scores for in-person MBA programs in Real Estate is 599 with a highest of 732 and the lowest of 442

The average GMAT score needed for a Real Estate MBA program from an institution is between 442 from Middle Tennessee State University to 732 from Harvard University. The average GMAT scores for Real Estate MBA programs is 599.

It’s important to note that not all MBA programs require a GMAT Score for admissions, but most reputable programs do. With that being said, if you have your eye on a list of competitive programs, it’s best to boost your GMAT Score accordingly. Outside of a solid GMAT Score, B-School admissions departments look at a candidate’s undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation, CV, and personal statement. A strong undergraduate performance may offset a sub-part GMAT Score. The average GMAT Score for on-campus MBA programs in Real Estate is a 599.03 compared to an average MBA program score of 599.03. It is recommended that each B-School applicant take a GMAT diagnostic test in order to determine whether or not further study and/or a prep course is needed to boost your score.

Average GMAT Score for MBA Programs in Real Estate

  • Average: 599
  • Lowest: 442
  • Highest: 732

10 Lowest GMAT for MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. Middle Tennessee State University - 400
  2. Florida International University - 448
  3. Nova Southeastern University - 450
  4. Nichols College - 450
  5. The University of Texas at San Antonio - 450
  6. DePaul University - 455
  7. Coastal Carolina University - 482
  8. University of Northern Iowa - 490
  9. University of Nebraska at Omaha - 500
  10. University of Central Florida - 507

10 Highest GMAT for MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. Harvard University - 740
  2. Northwestern University - 731
  3. University of California, Berkeley - 730
  4. Columbia University - 729
  5. Cornell University - 710
  6. Southern Methodist University - 710
  7. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - 707
  8. Emory University - 705
  9. University of Utah - 699
  10. Arizona State University - 698

No GMAT or GRE: Best MBA Programs in Real Estate

More than 233 AACSB accredited MBA programs do not require their applicants to take GMAT exam. Many well-known programs such as the University of Michigan and the University of California, Los Angeles no longer require the exam. If you are unsure where you would like to take your program, then you should take the GMAT sooner rather than later so you don’t lose time meeting the score requirement of a program.

Alumni from Schools Offering an MBA in Real Estate

There are pros and cons when considering the size of your MBA in Accounting program. Larger, more diverse student populations, may lend itself to greater networking and job placement opportunities; whereas smaller programs may provide for more meaningful interactions with fellow classmates.

The importance of networking, whether it’s by way of campus job fairs, student organization members, or faculty mentorship, should not be understated when considering an MBA program. The average MBA enrollment size has a direct impact on your studies, your job prospects, your ability to define your career goals and after graduation connections.

Every B-School has a strategy behind their enrollment sizes. If a prospective B-Student is looking for networking opportunities, wants to attend job fairs, and plans on joining student organizations, B-School enrollment size plays an important role in the decision making process. For the B-Student interested in the smaller cohort-style classroom experience and thrive with face-to-face collaboration with their professors, a manageable enrollment size is the preferred option.

For Real Estate MBA programs, the range for full-time enrollment is between 6 and 1,679. For part-time enrollment, the range is between : 2.00 and : 1,869.00.

Average Enrollment for MBA Programs Offering an MBA in Real Estate

10 MBA Programs with the Highest Enrollment (Alumni)

  1. University of North Texas - 1,679
  2. Arizona State University - 1,328
  3. Baruch College-The City University of New York - 1,279
  4. Cornell University - 1,188
  5. University of Florida - 1,174
  6. University of Utah - 1,162
  7. Johns Hopkins Carey Business School - 1,123
  8. Texas A&M University - 1,113
  9. Central Michigan University - 999
  10. Georgia State University - 998

10 MBA Programs with the Smallest Enrollment (Alumni)

  1. DePaul University - 6
  2. University of the District of Columbia - 29
  3. San Diego State University - 33
  4. Old Dominion University - 42
  5. University of Northern Iowa - 59
  6. Virginia Commonwealth University - 61
  7. Florida International University - 63
  8. Nichols College - 65
  9. University of Baltimore - 68
  10. Coastal Carolina University - 75

Student / Faculty Ratio for MBA Programs in Real Estate

For most students, their professors are the first exposure to the business world. They are normally practitioners in the field and have successful risen to the top of their respective careers. B-School Real Estate Professors can guide you toward a specific concentration, provide the latest industry trends, and put you on the right track, career-wise. The Student/Faculty ratio is important to those interested in building a lasting relationship with their professor. To use them as a networking opportunity and an advisor.

Top 10 Concentrations Available from Schools Also Offering an Degree in Real Estate?

Highly competitive B-Schools recruit part-time and full-time professors that are both academic and industry influencers. They are the subject matter experts in their respective concentrations. To meet the diverse needs of Real Estate businesses, MBA programs here have risen to the challenge by offering you an array of more than 47 MBA concentrations including:

  • Real Estate: 79
  • Marketing: 75
  • Finance: 75
  • General Business: 73
  • Accounting: 72
  • Management: 72
  • Corporate Finance: 68
  • Data Analytics: 63
  • Information Systems: 61
  • Entrepreneurship: 52

Here are the top schools offering the widest variety of concentrations to choose from:

The Importance of MBA Accreditation for MBA Programs

The importance of accreditation can’t be underestimated. For many, knowing your school is accredited by the AACSB and regionally accredited by the US Department of Education is enough assurance that you will receive a quality education, where credits are more likely to transfer, and you will be qualified for loans, grants, and scholarships.

AACSB accreditation is considered to be the gold standard in business school credentialing. Established to promote high-quality business education in the U.S., AACSB members developed a stringent accreditation process. Members are held accountable for following an established business education framework set forth by the AACSB. With that comes MBA degrees conferrals that are widely recognized by Fortune 500 companies. This results in lucrative job opportunities.

MBA Program Options Available for Real Estate MBA Programs

Options for earning your Real Estate MBA have never been more flexible. Real Estate MBA programs have become adept at offering effective alternatives for you to earn your MBA, no matter your life situation or schedule.

There are 78 Real Estate accredited MBA programs. 0 private and 56 public schools offering Real Estate MBA programs.

Number of Award Earned for MBA Programs Offering an Real Estate Degree

The ranking of MBA programs is certainly not an exact science and plenty of subjective reasoning and biases come into play. We offer insights into ranking as another way to evaluate a potential MBA program.

Of the 78 accredited MBA programs offered in Real Estate, 75 of them have been recognized by at least one distinguished publication MBAGuide, PQ, US News, Forbes, BW, Economist and FT garnering an award as one of the best MBA programs in the country.

Publications and the number of awards granted for an MBA degree in Real Estate :

  • MBAGuide: 75
  • US News: 33
  • Forbes: 26
  • BW: 27
  • Economist: 18
  • FT: 15

How We Rank the Best MBA Programs in Real Estate

MBAGuide.org employs a comprehensive ranking methodology that combines quantitative data (80% of the score) with qualitative assessments (20%) to evaluate MBA programs. The quantitative component considers factors such as student-faculty ratio, tuition, enrollment, and post-graduation salaries, while the qualitative aspect incorporates editorial ratings and school reputation, providing a well-rounded view of each program’s quality and value.

Best MBA Programs by Concentration: Online and In-Person

What is an MBA in Real Estate?

The MBA in Real Estate is a specialized concentration that builds upon an MBA program’s business fundamental courses. Students interested in a real estate career learn about brokerage management, real estate investing, development, commercial real estate, and entrepreneurship. While the required courses focus on real estate development, the electives allow students to explore a variety of issues related to real estate finance, management, and policy. These include real estate economics, urban fiscal policy, real estate law, primary and secondary housing markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), HUD, and the relationship between government policy, private development and international real estate markets.

The real estate industry is an exciting field with plenty of career paths. To keep students informed of current trends in Real Estate, an MBA program provides a concentrated study on residential, commercial, and secondary real estate markets. Whether you want to enter the field of commercial real estate appraisals or specialize in real estate finance, an MBA in Real Estate will be a highly respected credential in the industry.

An MBA in Real Estate gives students an opportunity to expand their entrepreneurial skills while focusing on real estate finance and investment management. Since real estate is both a physical and a financial product, transactions take place in local space as well as global asset markets. The traditional MBA in Real Estate program strikes the perfect balance between quantitative analysis and the qualitative case study method of instruction. From managing a real estate brokerage firm to understanding the secondary mortgage marketplace, an MBA in Real Estate graduate will be well-versed in all facets of the industry.

Difference Between an MBA in Real Estate and a Master’s in Real Estate

An MBA in Real Estate provides a broader business education with a specialization in real estate, while an MRE offers a more focused, in-depth study of real estate concepts and practices. The MBA curriculum typically includes core business courses like finance, accounting, and management, with real estate electives. An MRE program dedicates most of its coursework to real estate-specific topics such as real estate finance, development, and market analysis.

Career outcomes and networking opportunities also differ. MBA graduates often have more diverse career options across various industries, while MRE graduates are typically more specialized for roles within the real estate sector. The MBA network tends to be broader, spanning multiple industries, whereas the MRE network is more concentrated within real estate, potentially offering deeper connections in the field. Additionally, MBA programs often require more work experience for admission, while MRE programs may accept candidates with less professional experience but a stronger focus on real estate.

What are the Typical Classes for an MBA in Real Estate?

  • Real Estate Entrepreneur. MBA students are introduced to the broad entrepreneurial aspects of creating and executing real estate investments. The course consists of lectures by the professor, case discussions and guest lectures by leading entrepreneurs. The course emphasizes real estate entrepreneurship, leadership and challenges often encountered in creating successful real estate investments rather than development processes.
  • Real Estate Investments. This course provides an introduction to real estate with a focus on investment and financing issues. Project evaluation, financing strategies, investment decision making and capital markets are covered. No prior knowledge of the industry is required, but students are expected to rapidly acquire a working knowledge of real estate markets. The course contains cases that help students evaluate the impact of more complex financing and capital markets tools used in real estate.
  • Real Estate Law. This course examines the fundamentals of real estate finance and development from a legal perspective. The course serves as a foundation course for real estate majors and provides an introduction to real estate for other students. It attempts to develop skills in using legal concepts in a real estate transactional setting. The course will be of interest to students contemplating careers in accounting, real estate development, real estate finance, city planning, or banking.
  • Urban Real Estate Economics. Urban Real Estate Economics uses economic concepts to analyze real estate markets, values, and trends. The course focuses on market dynamics in the U.S. and internationally, with an emphasis on how urban growth and local and federal government policies impact urban development and real estate pricing.
  • Advanced Financial Management. Examines the problems faced by the corporate financial manager on the theoretical, analytical, and applied levels. The impact of the financing decision upon the value of the firm is analyzed. Theoretical and analytical aspects of the capital budgeting decision are examined in detail with emphasis on methods of incorporating risk into the capital budgeting decision. An analytical framework is presented to evaluate leasing, bond refunding, and mergers and acquisitions. Theories of corporate governance are discussed.
  • Real Estate Development. This course provides an introduction and overview of real estate development of urban places, including the many challenges of the development process such as analyzing market sectors and development opportunities, comprehending the development context of regulation, public policy and politics, raising investment capital, assembling land, program formulation, building types, construction management, marketing, and sales. Examples of development projects will be presented, each focusing on particular aspects of the overall process.
  • Real Estate Appraisal. This course surveys the principles and tools of appraising various types of real estate, as well as an analysis of value, price, property, and legal rights. Topics include principles of valuation; the real estate market; the relationship between real estate values and economic, social, and government trends; economics of urbanization, including location, value, and highest and best use; neighborhood analysis and approaches to cost, market data, and income valuation.

Career Outlook, Job Opportunities, Roles, Industries for a Real Estate MBA

While an MBA in Real Estate may not offer the highest starting salaries compared to some other specializations, it provides a solid foundation for long-term career growth and potentially significant earnings through deal participation. The field offers a good balance of financial rewards, work-life balance, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on communities.

Salary and Compensation:

  • Average base salary ranges from $125,000 to $135,000 for post-MBA associates
  • Total compensation can reach $210,000 or more when including bonuses, equity, and commissions
  • Median salary of $130,000 reported by UCLA Anderson, with 30% receiving signing bonuses

Job Growth and Opportunities:

  • Projected job growth of 5% from 2022-2032 for real estate managers and appraisers
  • Diverse career paths available, including development, finance, investment, asset management, and consulting
  • Opportunities in major cities beyond traditional finance hubs, such as Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami, Dallas, and Denver

Key Advantages:

  • Potential for high earnings through equity participation in deals (e.g., 5% promote structures)
  • Better work-life balance compared to investment banking or consulting
  • Tangible impact on communities through development projects
  • Exposure to multiple aspects of business (finance, law, architecture, etc.)

Top Employers:

  • Large firms like Trammell Crow, Greystar, and Related Companies
  • Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
  • Investment banks with real estate groups
  • Consulting firms specializing in real estate

What Skills Do I Need to be Successful In Real Estate Management?

SectorDescription
Business skillsBecause most brokers are self-employed, they must manage every aspect of their business. This task includes reaching out to prospective clients, handling their finances, and advertising their services.
Interpersonal skillsStrong interpersonal skills are essential for real estate brokers and sales agents because they spend much of their time interacting with clients and customers. To attract and keep clients, they must be pleasant, enthusiastic, and trustworthy.
Organizational skillsReal estate brokers and sales agents must be able to work independently, managing their own time and organizing, planning, and prioritizing their work.
Problem-solving skillsReal estate brokers and sales agents need to be able to quickly (sometimes immediately) address concerns clients or potential customers may have a property. They also mediate negotiations between seller and buyer.
Analytical skillsConstruction managers plan project strategies, handle unexpected issues and delays and solve problems that arise over the course of the project. In addition, many managers use cost-estimating and planning software to determine costs and the materials and time required to complete projects.
Business skillsConstruction managers address budget matters and coordinate and supervise workers. Choosing competent staff and establishing good working relationships with them is critical.
Customer-service skillsConstruction managers are in constant contact with owners, inspectors, and the public. They must form good working relationships with these people and ensure their needs are met.
Decision making skillsConstruction managers choose personnel and subcontractors for specific tasks and jobs. Often, these choices must be made quickly to meet deadlines and budgets.
InitiativeSelf-employed construction managers generate their own business opportunities and must be proactive in finding new clients. They often market their services and bid on jobs, and they must also learn to perform special home improvement projects, such as installing mosaic glass tiles, sanding wood floors, and insulating homes.
Leadership skillsConstruction managers must effectively delegate tasks to construction workers, subcontractors, and other lower level managers.
Speaking skillsConstruction managers must give clear orders, explain complex information to construction workers and clients, and discuss technical details with other building specialists, such as architects. Self-employed construction managers must get their own projects, so the need to sell their services to potential clients is critical.
Technical skillsConstruction managers must know construction methods and technologies and must be able to interpret contracts and technical drawings.
Time-management skillsConstruction managers must meet deadlines. They ensure that construction phases are completed on time so that the next phase can begin as scheduled. For instance, a building’s foundation cannot be constructed until the land is completely excavated.
Writing skillsConstruction managers must write proposals, plans, and budgets, as well as document the progress of the work for clients and others involved in the building process.

Real Estate Licensing Information

All real estate brokers and sales agents must be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state, but most have similar basic requirements:

  • Be 18 years old
  • Complete a number of real estate courses
  • Pass a Foundation of Real Estate and State exam(s)

Some states have additional requirements, such as passing a criminal background check and 90 hours of real estate educational coursework. Licenses typically are not transferable among states. However, some states have reciprocity agreements in that they will accept some requirements used to get a license in another state.

To obtain a broker’s license, individuals generally need up to 3 years of experience as a licensed sales agent under the supervision of a managing broker. They also must take additional real estate educational courses. In some states, a bachelor’s degree may be substituted in place of some experience or training requirements. Those with a law degree are exempt from taking the educational coursework required to sit for the licensed real estate exam.

State licenses typically must be renewed every 2 to 4 years. In most states, brokers and agents must complete continuing education courses to renew their license. To verify exact licensing requirements, prospective brokers and agents should contact the real estate licensing commission of the state in which they wish to work.

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