Georgetown University

What you'll study

• Core finance and valuation: fundamentals of real estate finance, discounted cash flow and income-capitalisation valuation methods, capital markets and debt/equity structuring.
• Investment and asset management: portfolio theory for real estate, risk assessment, performance measurement, and strategies for institutional and private investors.
• Development and project management: site selection, entitlement and permitting, construction finance, pro forma modelling and project delivery.
• Market analysis and economics: urban and regional economics, demographic and demand analysis, market research methods and forecasting.
• Real estate law and ethics: land use, leases, contracts, regulatory frameworks and ethical practice in transactions and development.
• Special topics and electives: courses in sustainability and green building, affordable housing policy, REITs and public markets, real estate technology and negotiation.
• Practicum and capstone: experiential projects with industry partners, financial modelling workshops and a supervised capstone that integrates investment, development and market strategy.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or recognised equivalent; a strong quantitative or analytical undergraduate record is recommended.
• Competitive academic record; many successful applicants present coursework in economics, finance, mathematics or related disciplines.
• Relevant professional experience is valued for some pathways; early-career candidates and professionals seeking to pivot into real estate both apply.
• Application materials typically include a CV, academic transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
• Standardised test requirements and English language proficiency criteria vary by applicant background; consult the programme for current policies and any available waivers.

Career prospects

• Real estate development and project management for private and public sector developers.
• Investment roles including acquisitions, asset management, portfolio management and underwriting at institutional investors, REITs and private equity firms.
• Capital markets and debt finance positions at banks, mortgage lenders and structured finance shops.
• Brokerage, leasing and advisory services with commercial real estate firms.
• Consulting and advisory roles covering valuation, market research, public policy and urban regeneration.
• Roles in affordable housing, community development corporations and government agencies where real estate intersects with policy and planning.
• Entrepreneurial and proptech opportunities for graduates interested in startups or technology-enabled real estate solutions.

Why study at Georgetown University

• Strategic location: Situated in Washington, DC, the programme offers proximity to federal agencies, policy-makers, lenders and trade associations, useful for students interested in the regulatory and public policy dimensions of real estate.
• Interdisciplinary strengths: Access to faculty and courses across business, public policy and urban affairs supports a rounded understanding of market, financial and policy drivers.
• Industry engagement: Strong ties to local and national real estate firms, regular speaker series, site visits and practicum projects that connect classroom work to live transactions.
• Alumni network and career support: A large, active alumni community and dedicated career services help with recruiting events, mentorship and placement into investment, development and advisory roles.
• Experiential learning: Emphasis on hands-on modelling, negotiation simulations and capstone projects ensures graduates can apply technical skills directly to employer needs.