Introduction to Real Estate Development

This course offers a comprehensive examination of the real estate development lifecycle, from initial site conception to long-term asset management. Led by seasoned development and real estate professionals, the curriculum follows the chronological arc of a project, equipping students with the technical vocabulary and conceptual understanding necessary to pursue career opportunities within the industry. The syllabus moves from due diligence and market analysis to the complexities of entitlements, design, and project finance. Beyond foundational concepts, the course facilitates a hands-on group case study of a major local development. This allows students to apply rigorous financial and operational analysis to a real-world project, culminating in a formal presentation before a panel of industry experts. The hallmark of the course is the direct access to industry leaders it affords. Each session brings a cross-disciplinary roster of guest experts in architecture, engineering, and construction into the classroom for high-level dialogue. This practitioner-led approach bridges the gap between classroom theory and the realities of the modern built environment, providing students with a professional platform to build relationships and explore potential career pathways with leading firms in the field. Enrollment is strictly limited to 30 students to ensure a high-touch, interactive learning environment.