Pepperdine MSRE: Any Info

Hey everyone- I’m currently an undergrad student in a Southern California and also work full time in residential brokerage (as an agent, will get my broker’s license in a few months) full time. Long story short: I want to move into commercial development and am weighing out my options.

Pepperdine has an MSRE program but I can’t find a lot of information as far as success stories go, especially not on WSO. Their program does not require work experience which is why I’m drawn to it. USC requires minimum 2 years and I’d like to stay in Southern California for personal reasons (mostly because of investment properties). Any advice is appreciated!

18 Comments
 

Not to take anything away from Pepperdine, because I don't know enough about the program, but you might be best served, for multiple reasons, by working for two years and then looking into USC's program.

Commercial Real Estate Developer
 

Hey CRE, I appreciate your input. I read through your AMA regarding you getting your Master’s in Real Estate and you mentioned you wish you got it earlier. Can you explain why working for 2 years and going to USC might be the better option? I know USC has a lot more alumni and is highly regarded, especially in California. Thank you in advance!

“The three most harmful addictions are heroin, carbohydrates, and a monthly salary.” - Nassim Taleb
 
Best Response
"SoCalRE" Hey CRE, I appreciate your input. I read through your AMA regarding you getting your Master’s in Real Estate and you mentioned you wish you got it earlier. Can you explain why working for 2 years and going to USC might be the better option? I know USC has a lot more alumni and is highly regarded, especially in California. Thank you in advance!

I think I said in that AMA that around 1-2 years is prime work experience heading into the degree. I had almost 3, which was too much IMO, but straight from undergrad to grad school without any experience is also a recipe for disappointment. You'll be very overeducated and under experienced heading into the job hunt.

The alumni network and age/prestige of the program in CA is what I based my response on primarily.

Commercial Real Estate Developer
 

I don't attend USC unfortunately. I attend a state school in SoCal. Judging by your name, I would assume you are completing/ have recently completed USC's MRED program? How do you like it?

“The three most harmful addictions are heroin, carbohydrates, and a monthly salary.” - Nassim Taleb
 

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