Bachelor’s in Real Estate Degree Guide

Hannah Muniz
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Updated on May 31, 2024
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A real estate degree can prepare you to work in roles such as real estate agent, appraiser, and property manager. Learn about real estate programs in our guide.

Portions of the following article were drafted using an in-house natural language generation platform. The article was then reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by multiple members of our editorial team prior to publishing.


Interested in property management, finance, development, or entrepreneurship? A real estate degree may be right for you. This degree offers a variety of specializations to choose from while providing a holistic understanding of the real estate landscape.

In this guide, we explain what a bachelor’s degree in real estate entails, whether you can earn a real estate degree online, and how a degree can pave the way for a rewarding career.

What Is a Real Estate Degree?

A degree in real estate provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the real estate industry. You’ll study topics like finance, law, and accounting in relation to property and land.

The degree can prepare you for several careers in areas such as real estate finance, development, and entrepreneurship. A bachelor’s degree in real estate typically comprises 120 credits and includes general education coursework.

Here are some examples of real estate classes you may take:

  • Principles of Financial Accounting: This class teaches you the basics of financial accounting, providing a solid foundation for understanding financial transactions in the real estate industry.
  • Business Finance: This course delves into the financial aspects of running a business, a crucial skill for anyone considering a career in real estate development or entrepreneurship.
  • Real Estate Law: This class covers the legal aspects of real estate transactions.
  • Valuation and Management of Property: This course explores how to evaluate and manage properties.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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Do You Need a Degree for Real Estate?

While a real estate degree isn’t required to become a real estate agent, it can give you an edge when looking for jobs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), real estate agents must take pre-licensing courses and successfully pass a licensing exam — no degree necessary.

That said, some companies may favor candidates with a bachelor’s degree in real estate or a related field like business or finance. A degree can equip you with a deeper grasp of the fundamental aspects of real estate transactions, financing, development, construction, and renovation projects.

Ultimately, having a degree in real estate isn’t mandatory for a successful career but can help you advance more quickly and stand apart from other candidates.

Can You Earn a Real Estate Degree Online?

Yes, you can earn a real estate degree online.

Online real estate programs work best for students who need a lot of flexibility due to work or personal commitments. Accredited online programs provide the same comprehensive curricula as their on-campus counterparts, covering essential topics such as real estate law, property management, investment, and real estate marketing.

Additionally, many online programs offer accelerated options, allowing you to earn your real estate degree in less time.

Jobs for Real Estate Degree-Holders

Real estate degree-holders can pursue a variety of careers within the industry and can become real estate agents, real estate brokers, real estate appraisers, property managers, or mortgage brokers.

Here’s a snapshot of popular jobs in real estate:

Popular Real Estate Jobs
JobMedian Annual Salary (May 2023)Job Growth Rate (2022-2032)Minimum Education Required
Loan Officers$69,9903%Bachelor’s degree
Real Estate Brokers$63,0603%High school diploma or equivalent
Property and Real Estate Managers$62,8505%High school diploma or equivalent
Property Appraisers and Assessors$61,6305%Bachelor’s degree
Real Estate Sales Agents$54,3003%High school diploma or equivalent
Source: BLS

Is a Degree in Real Estate Worth It?

A degree in real estate can be worth it if you’re seeking advanced knowledge and a potentially higher salary down the road.

That said, be aware of potential pitfalls, including more time and money spent on your education.

Here are some of the biggest pros and cons to weigh before you commit to a real estate degree.

Pros of Getting a Real Estate Degree

  • check-circle A real estate degree can pave the way toward promotions and higher salaries.
  • check-circle Studying real estate in college can connect you with like-minded peers and industry professionals.
  • check-circle Online real estate degrees can offer flexible scheduling and help you save money on your education.

Cons of Getting a Real Estate Degree

  • x-circle Earning a degree requires a long-term commitment, typically four years for a bachelor’s degree.
  • x-circle Tuition for a real estate degree can be high — the average tuition and fees for in-state undergrads at public universities was $9,374 in 2021-2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
  • x-circle Many real estate positions, like being an agent, don’t require a degree.

Frequently Asked Questions About Real Estate Degrees

Any management-level position in real estate, such as facilities director, relocation director, and privacy director, can earn you salaries in the six figures, depending on your location and experience. For example, the 10% highest-paid facilities directors earned a base salary of at least $141,000 as of May 2024, according to Payscale.

Real estate consultants can also take home high salaries.

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