Real Estate.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
All data shown below (except Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity) is based on the category, not just this specific degree.
Please use your own discretion when interpreting these results. For certain degrees, a limited number of institutions report to the government's College Scorecard API, which may cause the data to be skewed or less representative of national trends. Consider these figures as informative but not definitive, and consult additional sources or advisors for important decisions.
Debt to Income Ratio
Why Real Estate. stands out: With a debt-to-income ratio of just 34.4%, graduates of this program typically enjoy manageable student loan payments compared to their first-year earnings. This low ratio means that, on average, students who complete Real Estate. can expect to pay off their student debt faster and with less financial stress than most other fields. Programs with a DTI below 0.5 are considered excellent by financial experts, making this degree a smart investment for your future.
For example, with a median salary of $60568 and average student debt of $20821, the financial outlook for Real Estate. graduates is especially strong in .
Key Insights
Considering Real Estate.? This major is known for its blend of hands-on learning and career-ready skills. Graduates often start out earning $60568, and with an average student debt of $20821, the debt-to-income ratio is 0.34—a great sign for your financial future.
With more than 7783 students earning this degree each year, you’ll be part of a vibrant community. Whether you’re interested in job security, making a difference, or just want a degree that opens doors, Real Estate. is a smart choice. Don’t forget: internships, networking, and campus involvement can make your experience even more valuable.
Degree Overview
Real Estate (CIP 52.1501) is a practical and career-focused business degree designed for programs that prepare students to understand, manage, and operate in the real estate industry. This CIP code represents programs that combine core business knowledge with real estate principles, property management, finance, and investment strategies, equipping graduates with the skills needed to succeed in residential, commercial, and industrial real estate markets.
At its core, real estate is about managing property, evaluating investments, and facilitating transactions. Programs under 52.1501 teach students how to assess property values, analyze market trends, manage real estate portfolios, and understand legal and financial aspects of real estate transactions. Graduates gain practical, analytical, and strategic skills to operate effectively in a dynamic industry.
This degree category is especially relevant as real estate continues to play a crucial role in the economy, with demand for professionals who can manage property, optimize investments, and navigate market fluctuations.
What Is a Real Estate Degree?
A degree classified under CIP 52.1501 represents programs that integrate business principles with real estate management, finance, and operations. Schools use this classification for programs that prepare students for careers in property management, brokerage, investment, appraisal, and real estate development.
Depending on the institution, programs may include coursework in:
- Real estate principles and practices
- Property management and operations
- Real estate finance and investment analysis
- Real estate law and contracts
- Appraisal and valuation techniques
- Market analysis and property development
- Sales, brokerage, and client relationship management
- Risk assessment and portfolio management
- Ethics and professional standards in real estate
The emphasis is on practical, industry-relevant skills that prepare graduates to navigate the real estate market professionally and ethically.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
Real Estate is ideal for students who:
- Are interested in property management, brokerage, or investment
- Enjoy analyzing markets, financial data, and investment opportunities
- Want flexible career options in residential, commercial, or industrial real estate
- Prefer applied learning with industry exposure
- May pursue professional licensure or certifications in real estate
This degree appeals to individuals who value financial analysis, market knowledge, and business strategy.
What Will You Learn?
Students in 52.1501 programs learn to evaluate, manage, and invest in real estate properties. Coursework emphasizes market analysis, financial decision-making, and operational management.
You will develop the ability to assess property values, manage real estate operations, negotiate transactions, and apply financial and legal principles in real estate settings.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Most programs help students develop skills such as:
- Analyzing real estate markets and trends
- Conducting property valuation and appraisal
- Managing residential, commercial, and industrial properties
- Performing investment analysis and portfolio management
- Understanding real estate law, contracts, and regulatory compliance
- Negotiating property transactions
- Developing business plans for real estate ventures
- Applying ethical standards and professional practices
These skills are essential for careers in real estate brokerage, management, and investment.
Topics You May Explore
Coursework may include subjects such as:
- Principles of real estate
- Property management and operations
- Real estate finance and investment
- Real estate law and contracts
- Appraisal and valuation methods
- Market analysis and feasibility studies
- Brokerage, sales, and client relations
- Risk management and portfolio optimization
- Ethics and professional standards in real estate
Many programs offer internships, practicums, or experiential projects to provide real-world exposure to the real estate industry.
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
A Real Estate degree prepares graduates for a variety of roles in property management, investment, and brokerage.
Common career paths include:
- Real Estate Agent or Broker
- Property Manager
- Real Estate Appraiser or Valuation Analyst
- Real Estate Investment Analyst
- Commercial or Residential Leasing Manager
- Development and Construction Project Coordinator
- Real Estate Consultant
- Portfolio or Asset Manager
Experience, internships, or professional licensure can accelerate advancement in the real estate industry.
Where Can You Work?
Graduates commonly work in:
- Real estate agencies and brokerage firms
- Property management companies
- Commercial and residential development firms
- Investment and financial institutions
- Government agencies and urban planning departments
- Consulting firms specializing in real estate
- Corporate real estate divisions
Real estate skills are transferable across residential, commercial, and industrial markets, providing career flexibility.
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary widely depending on role, location, and experience. Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level real estate roles: $40,000–$55,000 annually
- Mid-level property managers or investment analysts: $55,000–$80,000
- Experienced brokers, developers, or portfolio managers: $80,000–$150,000+
Commission-based income, property ownership, or successful investments can significantly increase earning potential.
Is This Degree Hard?
The academic difficulty is moderate. Students must be comfortable with financial analysis, market research, legal concepts, and negotiation. Success requires attention to detail, analytical skills, communication, and practical business acumen.
Who Should Choose CIP 52.1501 Specifically?
This CIP code may be a strong match if you:
- Are interested in real estate brokerage, investment, or management
- Enjoy analyzing markets, financial data, and property trends
- Want flexible career options in residential, commercial, or industrial real estate
- May pursue professional licensing or certifications in real estate
- Value practical, applied business and financial skills
How to Prepare in High School
Students interested in real estate should:
- Take business, economics, finance, or mathematics courses
- Develop analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
- Participate in business clubs, entrepreneurship programs, or internships
- Explore local real estate opportunities through volunteering or shadowing
- Learn about property management, investment analysis, and market trends
Real Estate represents a practical, versatile, and high-demand pathway for students who want to work in property management, brokerage, or investment—preparing them for successful careers in residential, commercial, and industrial real estate markets.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor