University of Southern California

Overview

The Dollinger Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) program at the University of Southern California equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead real estate development and investment projects. Through this intensive curriculum, you will gain practical expertise in areas such as underwriting, finance, market analysis, project approvals, and management across various property types.

What you'll study

The program's core coursework covers the entire development lifecycle, from initial market research to final project delivery. Key subjects include:

• Market Analysis for Real Estate
• Finance of Real Estate Development
• Real Estate Capital Markets
• Applications of Real Estate Finance to Problems of Development
• Project Management and Construction
• The Approval Process
• Legal Issues in Real Estate Development
• Design History and Criticism
• Building Typologies
• Community Design and Site Planning
• Real Estate Product Type Development

Students can expect a dynamic learning approach that combines lectures, case-based discussions, and practical problem-solving exercises to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• Complete a USC Graduate Application
• Submit GRE® General Test scores
• Provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities
• Present official scores from a nationally-administered standardized graduate entry exam as required

English requirements

• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 90
• PTE Academic: minimum score of 61
• IELTS: minimum score of 6.5

Other required materials

• Resume
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Official transcripts indicating degree award details, with English translations for documents not originally in English
• Financial Guarantee Statement to demonstrate ability to cover tuition and living expenses
• Application fee

Note: It is recommended to verify the latest application deadlines and any specific program exceptions on the official USC application page.

Career prospects

Upon completing the MRED program, graduates are well-positioned to pursue various career opportunities in the real estate sector. Many alumni find roles in real estate development firms, investment companies, and governmental agencies. The program also prepares students for potential roles in project management, urban planning, and real estate finance, contributing to the development of sustainable and innovative communities.