If you do not have any prior development experience, how effective is an MSRED degree (ex. Columbia's MSRED) in getting you that first development role?
What is the overall consensus: Is development something you can go to school for (ex. Columbia's MSRED) or is it something you really only learn on the job?
What would be non-development related work experience or degree type that would be attractive (or transferable) to a developer looking to hire an analyst or associate level candidate? Where do most development candidates come from (disciplines/education/experience/backgrounds/etc)?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, an MSRED degree can be beneficial for those looking to break into development roles, especially if they lack prior experience in the field. It can provide a solid foundation of knowledge and open up networking opportunities with real estate professionals. However, the value of the degree can vary depending on individual circumstances and career goals.
The consensus seems to be a mix. While formal education like an MSRED can provide valuable knowledge and credentials, there's also a strong belief that much of development is learned on the job. It's a field where practical experience can be just as, if not more, important than theoretical knowledge.
As for non-development related work experience or degrees that might be attractive to a developer, it seems that backgrounds in planning, design, and entitlements can be valuable. These areas can provide a unique perspective and set of skills that can complement the financial and economic aspects of development.
In terms of where most development candidates come from, it's a mixed bag. Some may come from finance or real estate backgrounds, while others might come from more non-traditional backgrounds. The key is to play to your strengths and leverage your unique skills and experiences.
Remember, these are just general observations and the actual situation can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances and the specific requirements of the role or company.
Sources: Entry Level Development Roles - MRED Necessary?, MSRED/MRED 2019 (MIT vs. USC vs. Columbia) WHICH ONE?
Development is something that you can really only learn on the job, but to answer the question in your title - How effective is a MSRED degree in getting you that first development role - the answer is incredibly effective. In fact, I'd say most of the stuff you will learn in the program is completely remedial and theoretical, but MSRED/MRED/MSRE degrees do two things exceptionally well - they provide you a built in network and they get you a bullet point on your resume that says development. Both of those things are very useful when job hunting.
Anything finance related is a good idea, but if you already graduated undergrad with something else I wouldn't stress it. I was a Poli Sci/Econ major. It never held me back.
Most development candidates are upper middle to upper class white dudes whose dads are also developers. ;)
In all seriousness, development tends to lean heavily male, white, and from a comfortable background, but I wouldn't let that dissuade you if you are not. I know female developers. I know minority developers. I know developers from underprivileged backgrounds.
Success in development has far more to do with your ability to make intelligent decisions quickly, "herd cats" to drive results, and grab a coffee or a beer with people than it does your background. Maybe you need to learn a bit about college football if you don't already follow it so you can fit in better in the southeast, for instance, but you'll be fine.
Yes. The grad degree will 100% help. If not - a finance degree will help too. But the pointed degree is probably better.
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