Chapman University

What you'll study

The programme combines core real estate disciplines with applied tools in finance, market research and development. Typical modules include real estate finance and investment, real estate development and project management, property valuation, real estate law and land use, urban economics and market analysis, sustainable and adaptive reuse strategies, and real estate portfolio management. Coursework emphasises quantitative skills — discounted cash flow modelling, pro forma construction, financial modelling for acquisitions and developments — alongside qualitative topics such as market feasibility studies, negotiation and stakeholder engagement.

Students commonly complete a capstone project, practicum or internship with a development firm, investment manager or public agency. The course is delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies, studio/problem-based workshops and industry guest speakers, with opportunities for field visits to local projects and client-led assignments.

Entry requirements

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in any discipline; degrees in business, economics, planning, engineering or related fields are typical but not required.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong performance. Professional experience in real estate, finance, construction or related areas is valued, particularly for applicants without a directly related undergraduate degree.
• A current CV or résumé outlining professional experience and relevant projects.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose describing career goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• References (academic or professional) to support the application.
• If English is not your first language, acceptable proof of English proficiency is required (for example, TOEFL or IELTS) as specified by the university.
• Some applicants may be asked to submit GMAT or GRE scores, though programmes often consider the overall profile including work experience and academic record.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad set of roles across the real estate industry. Common career paths include acquisitions and investment analysis, asset management, development and project management, brokerage and capital markets, property and facilities management, appraisal and valuation, and roles in public-sector planning or economic development. The programme also provides a foundation for careers in related advisory services such as consulting, real estate finance, and private equity focused on property.

Alumni typically progress into positions with developers, institutional investors, REITs, investment banks, boutique advisory firms, and government agencies. The blend of analytical and practical training helps graduates move into both technical specialist roles and leadership or project director positions over time.

Why study at Chapman University

• Location advantage: Chapman is based in Orange County, California, offering proximity to one of the largest and most diverse real estate markets in the United States, which supports internship and networking opportunities with regional developers, investors and public agencies.
• Small-cohort, personalised learning: Chapman emphasises small class sizes and close faculty engagement, allowing for hands-on mentorship and tailored professional development.
• Industry-connected faculty and practitioners: Courses are taught by faculty with academic and professional experience, and programmes frequently bring in industry practitioners as guest lecturers and project mentors.
• Experiential learning: The curriculum is designed around applied projects, practicum options and real-world case work that build a professional portfolio and practical skills employers seek.
• Cross-disciplinary resources: Students can draw on Chapman’s business, planning and law-related courses and campus resources to broaden expertise in areas such as finance, urban policy and entrepreneurial approaches to real estate.