Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme balances applied finance and development topics with law, planning and market analysis. Typical modules cover real estate finance and investment, property valuation and appraisal, real estate development and project delivery, market research and feasibility analysis, urban economics, and real estate law and regulation. Students also encounter coursework in financial modelling and pro forma analysis, portfolio management and REITs, sustainable and resilient development practices, and elective options that may include commercial leasing, property management, or international real estate markets.

Instruction emphasises practical skills: case studies, group projects, market studies, and capstone or practicum experiences that require preparing investment memoranda, development feasibility reports, and valuation assignments. Quantitative training in Excel-based modelling and databases used by industry is a core element, while seminars with practitioners link classroom theory to current market practice in the Miami region and beyond.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in any discipline. Admissions assessments consider academic record, professional experience in real estate or related fields (preferred but not always required), a current CV or résumé, a personal statement outlining career goals and motivation for the degree, and at least one letter of recommendation.

Some applicants will be asked to submit test scores (GMAT or GRE) though waivers may be available for those with significant professional experience or a strong academic record. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test unless exempt. Admissions decisions take a holistic view of academic preparation, quantitative ability and work experience.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across the property industry. Common career paths include:

• Real estate development and project management — overseeing site acquisition, entitlements, financing and delivery of residential, commercial or mixed-use projects.
• Investment and acquisitions — sourcing, underwriting and executing transactions for private equity firms, family offices, and institutional investors.
• Asset and portfolio management — managing income-producing properties and optimising operational performance for owners and REITs.
• Brokerage and capital markets — representing buyers and sellers, or working in debt and equity placement for commercial transactions.
• Valuation and appraisal — conducting formal property valuations for lenders, investors and public agencies.
• Public sector and planning — roles in municipal planning, housing policy, and economic development where real estate knowledge informs land use decisions.

Graduates benefit from the programme’s market-focused training and practitioner network when pursuing roles locally, nationally or in international markets, including cross-border investment activity common to the Miami region.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University is located in one of the country’s most active and internationally connected real estate markets. The programme leverages FIU’s proximity to Miami’s development, investment and finance community to provide professional networking, internships and guest lectures from industry leaders. Faculty combine academic expertise with practitioner experience, and teaching is oriented to the practical skills employers seek, such as financial modelling, valuation and project feasibility.

Students benefit from access to the university’s career services and alumni network in South Florida and beyond, plus opportunities for applied projects addressing the region’s specific challenges — from coastal resilience and sustainability to international capital flows. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for immediate industry contribution and longer-term career progression across both private and public real estate sectors.