Cornell Certificate in Commercial Real Estate vs MIT Commercial Real Estate Analysis and Investment Certificate
As the title indicates, I'm wondering which of these online certifications is better.
For background, I have been working in consulting (not RE related) for 3 years. I'd like to make the transition to real estate development, but don't have the professional/educational experience to get a close look by firms. My undergraduate degree was in Econ/Business. I took a few RE courses in college, but other than that, no relevant experience in it. I've considered a MSRE or MSRED, but most of these also require professional RE experience to be accepted. So I'm in a position where I can't get a job in RE because I didn't major in it, and can't get a Master's because I haven't been working in the industry.
Because of these barriers to entry, I've settled on an online graduate certificate - which has little to none. It will show potential employers I am committed to the industry and willing to get my foot in the door any way I can. I also like that I will be able to continue working and not attend classes in person or relocate entirely.
So, I've narrowed it down to these two. Anyone taken either of these? Which is the most valuable? What are the focus areas of each? Is one way better than the other?
Also interested, anyone have thoughts on UCLA extension vs these programs?
I am enrolled in UCLA Extension and its highly regarded here on the West Coast. Obviously doesn't compare to USC MRED, but still a great point. I have a friend who went from Arch -> UCLA Extension, Real Estate Development -> VP of Development and Acquisitions. He is the one who recommended I do the Certificate. I am unfamiliar with Cornell and MIT, but I would imagine its pretty much the same story. Cornell is known for its Hospitality emphasis, regardless if the Certificate focuses on hospitality or not. I also heard UCLA Extension's Construction Management Certificate is one of the best (depending on what role you want).
The UCLA Extension looks much more intensive and expensive. Looks to be all in-person as well?
The classes vary a lot. Some are pretty basic and easy. Two classes in particular are really intense. It costs about $7k all in. If you register 30 days before the start of the class you can get a discount code for 10% off.
Anyone know if one of these certs would be worth it if an employer paid for it? Already fairly good at excel/ underwriting, but might be getting the option to get better. Completed REFM 1-2 years ago.
The classes aren't very hard with these programs, to me this is something you get to slap on the resume. I graduated from a non-target and plan on completing one of these just to fill in any gaps/questions about my educational background. At a cost of ~2-3k, not too bad IMO
If you want to learn to model there's better ways. If your employer will pay I would do these certs though, why not.
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