A career in real estate may be ideal for those with interest in property management. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), real estate brokers and sales agents need at least a high school diploma and become licensed. But some employers prefer candidates with college credentials. Real estate appraisers generally hold an associate or bachelor’s degree in real estate. Colorado students who wish to become a part of the real estate industry could enroll in real estate classes to acquire skills and knowledge that may possibly prepare them for this field.
What do Professionals in Real Estate do?
Real estate is a profession that coordinates architecture, construction, law, finance, property management, and urban dynamics. Professionals in this field are responsible for helping, finding, and managing space for people who need a place to work, live shop, eat, and play. They also advise clients on prices, mortgages, and market conditions and compare properties. Some real estate workers also estimate the value of land and the buildings on the land. Since no two projects or investments are the same, real estate professionals must be creative and detail oriented. They should also have strong negotiation and communication skills.
Real Estate Classes in Colorado
A number of schools in Colorado offer real estate programs. These include both degrees as well as certificate programs. Students may enroll in undergraduate degree programs such as an associate or bachelor’s degree program, or they could choose graduate degree programs if they already have a bachelor’s degree. While undergraduate degree programs allow students to become familiar with the foundational real estate practices, graduate programs focus on in depth knowledge in the field. In addition to exploring courses in real estate, advanced programs also instruct students in project management and development.
Associate’s Degree in Real Estate
An associate’s degree program may be completed in two years, and students will learn about the workings of the real estate industry; covering areas such as sales techniques, customer service, real estate law, and appraisal methods. In addition to completing classroom based instruction, students may have to complete internships to gain hands on experience. Admissions for many real estate associate’s degree programs require students to hold a high school diploma or GED.
Bachelor’s Degree in Real Estate
Bachelor's degree programs in real estate are designed to provide students with specifics of real estate law in relation to rental, commercial, and private property. While a bachelor's degree is not essential to work as a real estate agent or broker, some employers prefer to hire candidates with these credentials. To enroll in a bachelor’s degree in real estate program, students need to submit their high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Also, they may be required to provide letters of recommendation and write admissions essays.
Master’s Degree in Real Estate
Master’s degrees are also offered in the field of real estate, and these may be ideal for working professionals as well as those who wish to manage real estate projects. Combining real estate theory and regulations with real-world application, students in these advanced programs learn how to manage negotiations with clients and initiate a real estate transaction. To enroll in master’s degree programs, students need to have an undergraduate degree in accounting, engineering, law, business, or a related field and have at least two years of professional experience.
Coursework
Real estate degree programs instruct students in a range of topics; allowing them to develop competence to enter the real estate market or business. Students take courses in communications, management, public speaking, and college math in addition to taking courses in business law, human resources management, customer service, and marketing to develop their business skills. Real estate specific classes are available in:
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Real Estate Management
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Property Management
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Financial Institutions
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Appraisal and Escrow Procedures
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Property Management
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Urban Planning
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Business Administration
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Real Estate Law
Advanced degree programs such as master’s degrees in real estate may include courses in principles of real estate taxation, real estate economics, negotiation tactics and dispute resolution, and managing buildings and operations
Career Prospects
Information from O*NET OnLine shows that demand for real estate appraisers, agents, and brokers in Colorado is likely to grow between 2012 and 2022. Salespersons, brokers, and real estate appraisers generally hold degrees in real estate. Potential workplaces include:
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Activities related to real estate
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Local government
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Credit intermediation and related activities
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State government
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Offices of real estate agents and brokers
Possible titles may include:
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Property Manager
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Real Estate Agent
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Property Inspector
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Real Estate Appraiser
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Real Estate Broker
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Leasing or Marketing Consultant