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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

$59,013

Average Tuition – Real Estate MBA Programs

$97,601

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 $49,200 and $175,000 with an average of $97,601.
  • Campus tuition in for Real Estate MBAs ranges between $9,068 to $176,600, with an average total tuition cost of $59,013
  • 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

The University of Texas at Dallas

Naveen Jindal School of Management

Location:

  • Richardson

,

  • TX

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $45,000
  • Graduate Salary: $123,163
  • Graduate ROI: 243%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 689
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 21:1
  • Enrollment: 11,097

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 21
  • Accounting
  • Consulting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Energy
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Insurance
  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Other
  • Supply Chain
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 1
  • Online Rank: 1
  • Best in:

Indiana University Bloomington/Indianapolis

Kelley School of Business

Location:

  • Bloomington

,

  • IN

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $29,573
  • Graduate Salary: $136,352
  • Graduate ROI: 124%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 685
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 15:1
  • Enrollment: 14,011

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • Concentrations: 13
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Global Management
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Information Systems
  • International Business
  • Law
  • Management
  • Other
  • Taxation
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 2
  • Online Rank: 2
  • Best in:

Harvard University

Harvard Business School

Location:

  • Boston

,

  • MA

Control: Private for-profit

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $149,820
  • Graduate Salary: $175,000
  • Graduate ROI: 17%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 730
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 7:1
  • Enrollment: 1,945

Degree Level(s):

  • Doctoral
  • ·
  • MBA

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • Concentrations: 24
  • 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
  • Online Rank: Not Ranked
  • Best in:

University of Washington

Michael G. Foster School of Business

Location:

  • Seattle

,

  • WA

Control: Public

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $76,890
  • Graduate Salary: $151,322
  • Graduate ROI: 97%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 703
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 14:1
  • Enrollment: 3,211

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 15
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Education
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Management
  • Manufacturing
  • Marketing
  • Other
  • Supply Chain
  • Taxation
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 4
  • Online Rank: Not Ranked
  • 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: $55,575
  • Graduate Salary: $118,983
  • Graduate ROI: 114%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 665
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
  • Enrollment: 4,414

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 21
  • 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 for-profit

Academic Year: Quarter

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business

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  • Tuition: $162,030
  • Graduate Salary: $175,000
  • Graduate ROI: 8%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 729
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 8:1
  • Enrollment: 3,074

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • Concentrations: 20
  • 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
  • Online Rank: Not Ranked
  • 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: $100,218
  • Graduate Salary: $133,517
  • Graduate ROI: 33%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 706
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 10:1
  • Enrollment: 2,820

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Partnership
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 14
  • 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:

Brigham Young University

Marriott School of Management

Location:

  • Provo

,

  • UT

Control: Private

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $58,544
  • Graduate Salary: $119,281
  • Graduate ROI: 104%
  • GMAT Required: Yes
  • Avg. GMAT: 677
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 12:1
  • Enrollment: 3,875

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • Campus
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 14
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Law
  • Manufacturing
  • Marketing
  • Other
  • Public Administration
  • Science and Technology
  • Supply Chain
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 8
  • Online Rank: Not Ranked
  • Best in:

Michigan State University

The Eli Broad College of Business

Location:

  • East Lansing

,

  • MI

Control: Public

Academic Year: Semester

Accredited: AACSB

Accreditation: Business and Accounting

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  • Tuition: $34,564
  • Graduate Salary: $119,539
  • Graduate ROI: 246%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 680
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 22:1
  • Enrollment: 5,115

Degree Level(s):

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

Offered As:

  • 1-Year
  • ·
  • Campus
  • ·
  • Distance Education
  • ·
  • Evenings
  • ·
  • Full-Time
  • ·
  • Off Campus
  • ·
  • Online
  • ·
  • Part-Time
  • ·
  • Weekends
  • Concentrations: 16
  • Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Data Analytics
  • Finance
  • General Business
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resources
  • Information Systems
  • Law
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Other
  • Supply Chain
  • Rankings
  • City Rank: 1
  • State Rank: 1
  • National Rank: 9
  • Online Rank: 5
  • 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: $30,606
  • Graduate Salary: $120,510
  • Graduate ROI: 294%
  • GMAT Required: Optional
  • Avg. GMAT: 672
  • Student / Faculty Ratio: 24:1
  • 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: 20
  • 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:

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 17.00% $149,820 $175,000MANo
2 University of Wisconsin-Madison 114.00% $55,575 $118,983WIYes
3 Northwestern University 8.00% $162,030 $175,000ILNo
4 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 33.00% $100,218 $133,517NCYes
5 The University of Georgia 294.00% $30,606 $120,510GAYes
6 University of South Carolina 269.00% $26,485 $97,819SCNo
7 Emory University -1.00% $151,689 $149,759GANo
8 Columbia University -8.00% $176,600 $162,099NYNo
9 Southern Methodist University 27.00% $96,788 $122,609TXYes
10 Georgetown University 11.00% $124,814 $138,552DCYes
11 University of California, Berkeley 9.00% $139,628 $152,831CANo
12 University of St. Thomas-Minnesota 67.00% $61,596 $102,900MNYes
13 University of Florida 343.00% $26,473 $117,197FLYes
14 The Pennsylvania State University 87.00% $61,236 $114,483PAYes
15 University of Illinois at Chicago 179.00% $60,264 $167,977ILYes
16 American University 8.00% $98,282 $105,666DCYes
17 Vanderbilt University 7.00% $131,000 $139,711TNNo
18 Texas A&M University 86.00% $62,000 $115,585TXNo
19 Cornell University -3.00% $159,820 $155,048NYNo
20 Arizona State University 106.00% $60,393 $124,664AZYes
21 University of California, Davis 14.00% $95,438 $109,075CAYes
22 University of Utah 77.00% $65,700 $116,348UTYes
23 Baruch College-The City University of New York 218.00% $37,338 $118,633NYYes
24 Temple University 60.00% $60,000 $95,989PAYes
25 University of Cincinnati 263.00% $23,996 $87,013OHYes
26 Georgia State University 156.00% $36,522 $93,600GAYes
27 The Ohio State University 1.00% $106,123 $106,779OHYes
28 University of Colorado at Boulder 67.00% $55,997 $93,401COYes
29 The University of Memphis 216.00% $23,688 $74,800TNYes
30 Villanova University 95.00% $60,000 $116,800PAYes
31 University of Miami 19.00% $92,290 $109,555FLYes
32 Middle Tennessee State University 233.00% $26,712 $89,000TNYes
33 University of Nevada, Las Vegas 331.00% $21,784 $93,820NVYes
34 University of Houston 83.00% $47,000 $85,878TXYes
35 Johns Hopkins Carey Business School -4.00% $133,000 $127,044MDYes
36 Miami University -32.00% $136,342 $92,700OHYes
37 University of San Diego 46.00% $69,610 $101,333CAYes
38 Syracuse University -18.00% $104,130 $85,731NYYes
39 Iowa State University 152.00% $29,966 $75,552IAYes
40 The University of Texas at Arlington 250.00% $22,504 $78,800TXYes
41 University of Missouri-Kansas City 256.00% $21,618 $76,900MONo
42 Colorado State University 122.00% $42,480 $94,300COYes
43 Seaver College -14.00% $104,333 $89,258CAYes
44 Drexel University 47.00% $59,241 $87,061PAYes
45 University of Denver 2.00% $96,000 $98,276COYes
46 Portland State University 54.00% $50,984 $78,264ORYes
47 University of Baltimore 120.00% $35,128 $77,400MDYes
48 Chapman University -22.00% $97,750 $76,368CANo
49 Marquette University 95.00% $46,620 $90,700WIYes
50 California State University, Los Angeles 349.00% $22,052 $99,100CANo
51 Auburn University 183.00% $27,385 $77,633ALYes
52 University of Central Oklahoma 588.00% $9,068 $62,400OKYes
53 Virginia Commonwealth University 141.00% $34,172 $82,232VAYes
54 Central Michigan University 246.00% $27,300 $94,350MIYes
55 University of Missouri 86.00% $45,000 $83,500MOYes
56 University of North Carolina at Charlotte 122.00% $37,946 $84,260NCYes
57 University of the District of Columbia 225.00% $30,765 $100,000DCNo
58 Montclair State University 167.00% $34,669 $92,400NJYes
59 Old Dominion University 140.00% $31,564 $75,800VAYes
60 Florida State University 202.00% $18,693 $56,545FLYes
61 University of Nebraska at Omaha 410.00% $17,493 $89,200NEYes
62 San Diego State University 130.00% $31,200 $71,900CAYes
63 University of Connecticut 130.00% $44,100 $101,501CTYes
64 University of Alabama at Birmingham 363.00% $16,200 $75,000ALYes
65 California State University, Northridge 151.00% $30,897 $77,400CANo
66 DePaul University 59.00% $53,952 $86,000ILYes
67 College of Charleston 149.00% $28,204 $70,314SCYes
68 California State University, San Bernardino 84.00% $41,500 $76,200CAYes
69 St. Cloud State University 182.00% $28,969 $81,800MNYes
70 Nova Southeastern University 105.00% $44,351 $90,756FLYes
71 The University of Mississippi 135.00% $25,914 $60,977MSYes
72 University of Northern Iowa 176.00% $23,917 $66,000IANo
73 University of Central Florida 93.00% $39,000 $75,200FLNo
74 The University of Texas at San Antonio 218.00% $24,512 $78,000TXYes
75 University of North Texas 39.00% $52,268 $72,545TXYes
76 Florida International University 48.00% $42,000 $62,115FLYes
77 University of South Alabama 242.00% $14,400 $49,200ALYes
78 Nichols College 95.00% $28,440 $55,392MAYes
79 Coastal Carolina University 184.00% $18,460 $52,500SCYes

An MBA program in Real Estate will cost you between $9,068.00 to $176,600.00.

  • 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: $59,012.68
  • Average Graduate Salary for Real Estate MBA Programs: $97,601
  • 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$97,601$92,328
Average MBA Tuition$59,013
$51,380
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 University of South Alabama, the average MBA graduate annual salary is $49,200 . A degree from Northwestern University, will provide an annual salary of $175,000.

Average MBA starting salary for graduates from accredited programs is $97,601 with the lowest of starting of $49,200 and the highest reported starting salary of $175,000.

Average Graduate Salaries for In-Person Real Estate MBA Programs

  • Average Real Estate: $97,601
  • Lowest Real Estate: $49,200
  • Highest Real Estate: $175,000

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

  1. Northwestern University - $175,000.00
  2. Harvard University - $175,000.00
  3. University of Illinois at Chicago - $167,977.00
  4. Columbia University - $162,099.00
  5. Cornell University - $155,048.00
  6. University of California, Berkeley - $152,831.00
  7. Emory University - $149,759.00
  8. Vanderbilt University - $139,711.00
  9. Georgetown University - $138,552.00
  10. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - $133,517.00

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

  1. University of South Alabama - $49,200.00
  2. Coastal Carolina University - $52,500.00
  3. Nichols College - $55,392.00
  4. Florida State University - $56,545.00
  5. The University of Mississippi - $60,977.00
  6. Florida International University - $62,115.00
  7. University of Central Oklahoma - $62,400.00
  8. University of Northern Iowa - $66,000.00
  9. College of Charleston - $70,314.00
  10. San Diego State University - $71,900.00

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 University of South Alabama $49,200 $14,400 242.00%ALYes
2 Coastal Carolina University $52,500 $18,460 184.00%SCYes
3 Nichols College $55,392 $28,440 95.00%MAYes
4 Florida State University $56,545 $18,693 202.00%FLYes
5 The University of Mississippi $60,977 $25,914 135.00%MSYes
6 Florida International University $62,115 $42,000 48.00%FLYes
7 University of Central Oklahoma $62,400 $9,068 588.00%OKYes
8 University of Northern Iowa $66,000 $23,917 176.00%IANo
9 College of Charleston $70,314 $28,204 149.00%SCYes
10 San Diego State University $71,900 $31,200 130.00%CAYes
11 University of North Texas $72,545 $52,268 39.00%TXYes
12 The University of Memphis $74,800 $23,688 216.00%TNYes
13 University of Alabama at Birmingham $75,000 $16,200 363.00%ALYes
14 University of Central Florida $75,200 $39,000 93.00%FLNo
15 Iowa State University $75,552 $29,966 152.00%IAYes
16 Old Dominion University $75,800 $31,564 140.00%VAYes
17 California State University, San Bernardino $76,200 $41,500 84.00%CAYes
18 Chapman University $76,368 $97,750 -22.00%CANo
19 University of Missouri-Kansas City $76,900 $21,618 256.00%MONo
20 California State University, Northridge $77,400 $30,897 151.00%CANo
20 University of Baltimore $77,400 $35,128 120.00%MDYes
22 Auburn University $77,633 $27,385 183.00%ALYes
23 The University of Texas at San Antonio $78,000 $24,512 218.00%TXYes
24 Portland State University $78,264 $50,984 54.00%ORYes
25 The University of Texas at Arlington $78,800 $22,504 250.00%TXYes
26 St. Cloud State University $81,800 $28,969 182.00%MNYes
27 Virginia Commonwealth University $82,232 $34,172 141.00%VAYes
28 University of Missouri $83,500 $45,000 86.00%MOYes
29 University of North Carolina at Charlotte $84,260 $37,946 122.00%NCYes
30 Syracuse University $85,731 $104,130 -18.00%NYYes
31 University of Houston $85,878 $47,000 83.00%TXYes
32 DePaul University $86,000 $53,952 59.00%ILYes
33 University of Cincinnati $87,013 $23,996 263.00%OHYes
34 Drexel University $87,061 $59,241 47.00%PAYes
35 Middle Tennessee State University $89,000 $26,712 233.00%TNYes
36 University of Nebraska at Omaha $89,200 $17,493 410.00%NEYes
37 Seaver College $89,258 $104,333 -14.00%CAYes
38 Marquette University $90,700 $46,620 95.00%WIYes
39 Nova Southeastern University $90,756 $44,351 105.00%FLYes
40 Montclair State University $92,400 $34,669 167.00%NJYes
41 Miami University $92,700 $136,342 -32.00%OHYes
42 University of Colorado at Boulder $93,401 $55,997 67.00%COYes
43 Georgia State University $93,600 $36,522 156.00%GAYes
44 University of Nevada, Las Vegas $93,820 $21,784 331.00%NVYes
45 Colorado State University $94,300 $42,480 122.00%COYes
46 Central Michigan University $94,350 $27,300 246.00%MIYes
47 Temple University $95,989 $60,000 60.00%PAYes
48 University of South Carolina $97,819 $26,485 269.00%SCNo
49 University of Denver $98,276 $96,000 2.00%COYes
50 California State University, Los Angeles $99,100 $22,052 349.00%CANo

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 $59,012.68 compared to an average campus program Real Estate is $59,012.68 .

The lowest AACSB tuition rate at $9,068.00 from University of Central Oklahoma.

The highest AACSB tuition rate is $176,600.00 from Columbia University.

Average Tuition for In-Person MBA Programs in Real Estate

10 Most Affordable MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. University of Central Oklahoma - $9,068.00
  2. University of South Alabama - $14,400.00
  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham - $16,200.00
  4. University of Nebraska at Omaha - $17,493.00
  5. Coastal Carolina University - $18,460.00
  6. Florida State University - $18,693.00
  7. University of Missouri-Kansas City - $21,618.00
  8. University of Nevada, Las Vegas - $21,784.00
  9. California State University, Los Angeles - $22,052.00
  10. The University of Texas at Arlington - $22,504.00

10 Most Expensive MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. Columbia University - $176,600.00
  2. Northwestern University - $162,030.00
  3. Cornell University - $159,820.00
  4. Emory University - $151,689.00
  5. Harvard University - $149,820.00
  6. University of California, Berkeley - $139,628.00
  7. Miami University - $136,342.00
  8. Johns Hopkins Carey Business School - $133,000.00
  9. Vanderbilt University - $131,000.00
  10. Georgetown University - $124,814.00

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 University of Central Oklahoma $9,068 $62,400 588.00%OKYes
2 University of South Alabama $14,400 $49,200 242.00%ALYes
3 University of Alabama at Birmingham $16,200 $75,000 363.00%ALYes
4 University of Nebraska at Omaha $17,493 $89,200 410.00%NEYes
5 Coastal Carolina University $18,460 $52,500 184.00%SCYes
6 Florida State University $18,693 $56,545 202.00%FLYes
7 University of Missouri-Kansas City $21,618 $76,900 256.00%MONo
8 University of Nevada, Las Vegas $21,784 $93,820 331.00%NVYes
9 California State University, Los Angeles $22,052 $99,100 349.00%CANo
10 The University of Texas at Arlington $22,504 $78,800 250.00%TXYes
11 The University of Memphis $23,688 $74,800 216.00%TNYes
12 University of Northern Iowa $23,917 $66,000 176.00%IANo
13 University of Cincinnati $23,996 $87,013 263.00%OHYes
14 The University of Texas at San Antonio $24,512 $78,000 218.00%TXYes
15 The University of Mississippi $25,914 $60,977 135.00%MSYes
16 University of Florida $26,473 $117,197 343.00%FLYes
17 University of South Carolina $26,485 $97,819 269.00%SCNo
18 Middle Tennessee State University $26,712 $89,000 233.00%TNYes
19 Central Michigan University $27,300 $94,350 246.00%MIYes
20 Auburn University $27,385 $77,633 183.00%ALYes
21 College of Charleston $28,204 $70,314 149.00%SCYes
22 Nichols College $28,440 $55,392 95.00%MAYes
23 St. Cloud State University $28,969 $81,800 182.00%MNYes
24 Iowa State University $29,966 $75,552 152.00%IAYes
25 The University of Georgia $30,606 $120,510 294.00%GAYes
26 University of the District of Columbia $30,765 $100,000 225.00%DCNo
27 California State University, Northridge $30,897 $77,400 151.00%CANo
28 San Diego State University $31,200 $71,900 130.00%CAYes
29 Old Dominion University $31,564 $75,800 140.00%VAYes
30 Virginia Commonwealth University $34,172 $82,232 141.00%VAYes
31 Montclair State University $34,669 $92,400 167.00%NJYes
32 University of Baltimore $35,128 $77,400 120.00%MDYes
33 Georgia State University $36,522 $93,600 156.00%GAYes
34 Baruch College-The City University of New York $37,338 $118,633 218.00%NYYes
35 University of North Carolina at Charlotte $37,946 $84,260 122.00%NCYes
36 University of Central Florida $39,000 $75,200 93.00%FLNo
37 California State University, San Bernardino $41,500 $76,200 84.00%CAYes
38 Florida International University $42,000 $62,115 48.00%FLYes
39 Colorado State University $42,480 $94,300 122.00%COYes
40 University of Connecticut $44,100 $101,501 130.00%CTYes
41 Nova Southeastern University $44,351 $90,756 105.00%FLYes
42 University of Missouri $45,000 $83,500 86.00%MOYes
43 Marquette University $46,620 $90,700 95.00%WIYes
44 University of Houston $47,000 $85,878 83.00%TXYes
45 Portland State University $50,984 $78,264 54.00%ORYes
46 University of North Texas $52,268 $72,545 39.00%TXYes
47 DePaul University $53,952 $86,000 59.00%ILYes
48 University of Wisconsin-Madison $55,575 $118,983 114.00%WIYes
49 University of Colorado at Boulder $55,997 $93,401 67.00%COYes
50 Drexel University $59,241 $87,061 47.00%PAYes

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 University of Central Oklahoma.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 University of Central Oklahoma 588.00% $9,068 $62,400OKYes
2 University of Nebraska at Omaha 410.00% $17,493 $89,200NEYes
3 University of Alabama at Birmingham 363.00% $16,200 $75,000ALYes
4 California State University, Los Angeles 349.00% $22,052 $99,100CANo
5 University of Florida 343.00% $26,473 $117,197FLYes
6 University of Nevada, Las Vegas 331.00% $21,784 $93,820NVYes
7 The University of Georgia 294.00% $30,606 $120,510GAYes
8 University of South Carolina 269.00% $26,485 $97,819SCNo
9 University of Cincinnati 263.00% $23,996 $87,013OHYes
10 University of Missouri-Kansas City 256.00% $21,618 $76,900MONo
11 The University of Texas at Arlington 250.00% $22,504 $78,800TXYes
12 Central Michigan University 246.00% $27,300 $94,350MIYes
13 University of South Alabama 242.00% $14,400 $49,200ALYes
14 Middle Tennessee State University 233.00% $26,712 $89,000TNYes
15 University of the District of Columbia 225.00% $30,765 $100,000DCNo
16 The University of Texas at San Antonio 218.00% $24,512 $78,000TXYes
16 Baruch College-The City University of New York 218.00% $37,338 $118,633NYYes
18 The University of Memphis 216.00% $23,688 $74,800TNYes
19 Florida State University 202.00% $18,693 $56,545FLYes
20 Coastal Carolina University 184.00% $18,460 $52,500SCYes
21 Auburn University 183.00% $27,385 $77,633ALYes
22 St. Cloud State University 182.00% $28,969 $81,800MNYes
23 University of Illinois at Chicago 179.00% $60,264 $167,977ILYes
24 University of Northern Iowa 176.00% $23,917 $66,000IANo
25 Montclair State University 167.00% $34,669 $92,400NJYes
26 Georgia State University 156.00% $36,522 $93,600GAYes
27 Iowa State University 152.00% $29,966 $75,552IAYes
28 California State University, Northridge 151.00% $30,897 $77,400CANo
29 College of Charleston 149.00% $28,204 $70,314SCYes
30 Virginia Commonwealth University 141.00% $34,172 $82,232VAYes
31 Old Dominion University 140.00% $31,564 $75,800VAYes
32 The University of Mississippi 135.00% $25,914 $60,977MSYes
33 San Diego State University 130.00% $31,200 $71,900CAYes
33 University of Connecticut 130.00% $44,100 $101,501CTYes
35 Colorado State University 122.00% $42,480 $94,300COYes
35 University of North Carolina at Charlotte 122.00% $37,946 $84,260NCYes
37 University of Baltimore 120.00% $35,128 $77,400MDYes
38 University of Wisconsin-Madison 114.00% $55,575 $118,983WIYes
39 Arizona State University 106.00% $60,393 $124,664AZYes
40 Nova Southeastern University 105.00% $44,351 $90,756FLYes
41 Marquette University 95.00% $46,620 $90,700WIYes
41 Villanova University 95.00% $60,000 $116,800PAYes
42 Nichols College 95.00% $28,440 $55,392MAYes
44 University of Central Florida 93.00% $39,000 $75,200FLNo
45 The Pennsylvania State University 87.00% $61,236 $114,483PAYes
46 Texas A&M University 86.00% $62,000 $115,585TXNo
46 University of Missouri 86.00% $45,000 $83,500MOYes
48 California State University, San Bernardino 84.00% $41,500 $76,200CAYes
49 University of Houston 83.00% $47,000 $85,878TXYes
50 University of Utah 77.00% $65,700 $116,348UTYes
51 University of St. Thomas-Minnesota 67.00% $61,596 $102,900MNYes
51 University of Colorado at Boulder 67.00% $55,997 $93,401COYes
53 Temple University 60.00% $60,000 $95,989PAYes
54 DePaul University 59.00% $53,952 $86,000ILYes
55 Portland State University 54.00% $50,984 $78,264ORYes
56 Florida International University 48.00% $42,000 $62,115FLYes
57 Drexel University 47.00% $59,241 $87,061PAYes
58 University of San Diego 46.00% $69,610 $101,333CAYes
59 University of North Texas 39.00% $52,268 $72,545TXYes
60 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 33.00% $100,218 $133,517NCYes
61 Southern Methodist University 27.00% $96,788 $122,609TXYes
62 University of Miami 19.00% $92,290 $109,555FLYes
63 Harvard University 17.00% $149,820 $175,000MANo
64 University of California, Davis 14.00% $95,438 $109,075CAYes
65 Georgetown University 11.00% $124,814 $138,552DCYes
66 University of California, Berkeley 9.00% $139,628 $152,831CANo
67 Northwestern University 8.00% $162,030 $175,000ILNo
67 American University 8.00% $98,282 $105,666DCYes
69 Vanderbilt University 7.00% $131,000 $139,711TNNo
70 University of Denver 2.00% $96,000 $98,276COYes
71 The Ohio State University 1.00% $106,123 $106,779OHYes

ROI for MBA Programs

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

10 Highest ROI for MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. University of Central Oklahoma - 588.00%
  2. University of Nebraska at Omaha - 410.00%
  3. University of Alabama at Birmingham - 363.00%
  4. California State University, Los Angeles - 349.00%
  5. University of Florida - 343.00%
  6. University of Nevada, Las Vegas - 331.00%
  7. The University of Georgia - 294.00%
  8. University of South Carolina - 269.00%
  9. University of Cincinnati - 263.00%
  10. University of Missouri-Kansas City - 256.00%

10 Lowest ROI for MBA Programs in Real Estate

  1. The Ohio State University - 1.00%
  2. University of Denver - 2.00%
  3. Vanderbilt University - 7.00%
  4. Northwestern University - 8.00%
  5. American University - 8.00%
  6. University of California, Berkeley - 9.00%
  7. Georgetown University - 11.00%
  8. University of California, Davis - 14.00%
  9. Harvard University - 17.00%
  10. University of Miami - 19.00%

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 University of North Texas to 732 from Columbia 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. University of North Texas - 442
  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. Columbia University - 732
  2. Harvard University - 730
  3. University of California, Berkeley - 729
  4. Northwestern University - 729
  5. Emory University - 709
  6. Cornell University - 707
  7. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - 706
  8. Georgetown University - 697
  9. Southern Methodist University - 694
  10. University of Florida - 690

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. College of Charleston - 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. 3 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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