Most Affordable Online Real Estate Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Aspiring real estate professionals in the United States (US) can expect career opportunities available to them between 2023 and 2033. To become a licensed real estate sales agent, you will basically need to earn a high school diploma or its equivalent, finish real estate courses, and pass a licensure examination. Completing these requirements can already open you up to entry-level roles in the industry. Moreover, real estate brokers and sales agents across the country had a median annual wage of $58,960 in 2024, which is much higher than that of all US occupations ($49,500) [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2025]. Considering these benefits, an online real estate degree can take you a leap further in your real estate career.

To help aspirants and current real estate professionals along their journey, I created this in-depth guide to online real estate degree programs. Explore different academic institutions, educational costs, financial aid options, income potential, and career outlook.

What are the benefits of getting an online real estate degree?

• An online real estate degree can help you land a job as a real estate broker, sales agent, property manager, real estate manager, or association manager.
• In 2024, real estate brokers and sales agents in the US had a median hourly wage of $28.35. Meanwhile, property, real estate, and community association managers across the country had $32.07. These figures are higher than the $23.80 median hourly wage of all occupations in the US during the same year (US BLS, 2025).
• An online real estate degree program can provide students with convenience and flexibility. Generally, as long as you have access to a reliable computer and a stable internet connection, you can attend your online classes, work on activities virtually, and interact with peers and instructors wherever you may be.

What can I expect from online real estate degree programs?

In the US, students enrolling in online bachelor's degree programs in real estate can expect a flexible and comprehensive education that blends theory with practical application. Courses may cover real estate finance, property management, urban planning, real estate law, and market analysis. Many programs include case studies, simulation projects, and access to real estate software tools to enhance hands-on learning.

Online formats enable students to balance studies with personal or professional commitments, while still benefiting from interaction with fellow students and instructors through virtual discussions and group work. Some programs also prepare students for licensure examinations or offer internship opportunities.

Where can I work with an online real estate degree?

• In 2023, about 54% of the 113,600 real estate brokers employed in the US were self-employed, while 42% worked in real estate, rental, and leasing companies.
• Out of the 430,700 real estate sales agents employed across the country in the same year, 53% were self-employed; 39% worked in real estate, rental, and leasing firms; and 3% were employed in construction (US BLS, 2025).
• Around 467,100 property, real estate, and community association managers were employed in the US in 2023. Out of these professionals, 50% worked in real estate companies; 37% were self-employed; and 2% were employed by religious, grantmaking, civic, professional, and similar organizations (US BLS, 2025).

How much can I make with an online real estate degree?

In 2024, real estate brokers and sales agents across the US had a median annual wage of $58,960, while property, real estate, and community association managers had $66,700. These figures are much higher than the $49,500 median annual wages of all US occupations in the same year (US BLS, 2025). The 2024 median annual wages for real estate professionals as well as all US occupations are as follows (US BLS, 2025):

• Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents: $28.35
• Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers: $32.07
• All US Occupations: $23.80

Notably, the federal minimum wage in 2025 is $7.25 per hour. However, each state and city establish their own minimum wage rates (US Government, 2025).

Table of Contents

1. List of Online Real Estate Degree Programs for 2025
2. How long does it take to complete an online real estate degree program?
3. How does an online real estate degree program compare to an on-campus program?
4. What is the average cost of an online real estate degree program?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online real estate degree program?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online real estate degree program?
7. What courses are typically in an online real estate degree program?
8. Should I pursue additional business education alongside my online real estate degree?
9. How do accreditation and quality assurance impact program value?
10. What advanced online degrees can complement my real estate career?
11. What types of specializations are available in online real estate degree programs?
12. How do you choose the best online real estate degree program?
13. What career paths are available to graduates of online real estate degree programs?
14. What is the job market like for graduates of online real estate degree programs?
15. Other Things You Need to Know about Online Real Estate Degree Programs

List of Online Real Estate Degree Programs for 2025

To help you succeed in your real estate career, I created a list of reputable degree programs offered by accredited academic institutions across the US. The list is based on the research methodology that my team and I established. We collected and analyzed recent data from the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

1. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University offers a fully online bachelor of science (BS) degree program in business administration, with several areas of study, including real estate, sales, finance, human resource management, and supply chain management. The program curriculum includes courses in accounting, business communication, business statistics, management information systems, and market.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Areas of Specialization:
  • Real Estate
  • Agricultural Business
  • Business Law
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • Financial Wellness
  • Hospitality Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Marketing
  • Marketing Analytics
  • Sales
  • Supply Chain Management
  • General

• Cost per Credit: $282
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); AACSB International

2. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University offers an online BS degree program in finance with a real estate concentration through its Shreveport College of Business. In this program, students develop broad business skills, such as critical thinking in finance and real estate. Coursework includes general finance, real estate law, investment and taxation, as well as financial services management.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Area of Specialization: Real Estate
• Cost per Credit: $301
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); AACSB International

3. Old Dominion University

Through its Strome College of Business, Old Dominion University offers an online BS degree program in business administration in financial management with a real estate major. The program curriculum includes principles of real estate, real estate finance, and real estate property management.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Area of Specialization: Real Estate
• Cost per Credit: $408 (Residents); $439 (Non-resident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: SACSCOC; AACSB International

4. Purdue University

Through its Daniels School of Business, Purdue University offers the Dean V. White Real Estate Finance Program, which provides students with specialized minors in real estate or real estate finance. Those majoring in fields within the Daniels School of Business may minor in real estate finance, while those with a major outside the Daniels School of Business may earn a real estate minor.

• Program Length: N/A
• Specialized Minors:
  • Real Estate
  • Real Estate Finance

• Cost per Credit: Contact the university for information on tuition.
• Required Credits to Complete Minor: 18 credits
• Accreditation: HLC; AACSB International

5. The University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers an undergraduate certificate program in real estate, which students can choose to take online, in person, or through its hybrid option. The certificate program covers foundational concepts in commercial and residential real estate, with an emphasis on investing and finance. Students are also required to complete internships.

• Program Length: 5 courses
• Areas of Specialization: N/A
• Cost per Credit: $377 (Resident); $938 (Non-resident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 15 credits
• Accreditation: SACSCOC; AACSB International

How long does it take to complete an online real estate degree program?

Program length for online real estate degree programs depends largely on the program type that you choose. A certificate program is usually shorter, taking anywhere from 6 months to a year to complete. This option is ideal for individuals looking to gain specialized skills or certifications quickly, such as for those already working in the field or seeking to transition into real estate. These programs often cover core sales representative qualifications, helping students meet basic licensing and industry requirements more efficiently.

A bachelor's degree in real estate usually takes about 3 to 4 years to finish when pursued on a full-time basis. This more comprehensive program covers a broader range of topics, including real estate law, finance, and property management. The length of both programs can vary depending on whether you study part-time or attend a fast-track program. In general, certificate programs are much faster and more focused than bachelor’s degree programs.

How does an online real estate degree program compare to an on-campus program?

When choosing between an online and on-campus real estate degree program, the following are several key differences to consider:

• Flexibility and Convenience: Online real estate degree programs enable students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This makes them ideal for individuals working full-time or have other commitments. The same flexibility is often a major benefit of
• Interaction and Networking: On-campus programs provide face-to-face interaction with professors and peers, which can foster stronger networking opportunities and a more immersive learning environment. Meanwhile, online programs offer virtual communication but may limit direct connections with classmates and instructors.
• Cost: Online real estate degree programs are often more affordable than on-campus options. Online students save on commuting and housing costs, while traditional on-campus students usually have higher tuition rates and additional expenses related to campus living.

What is the average cost of an online real estate degree program?

The cost of online real estate degree programs in the US varies based on several factors, including the type of program, the academic institution, residency status, and enrollment status.

For instance, Arkansas State University offers an online bachelor of science (BS) program in business administration with a real estate focus at $282 per credit hour, totaling approximately $33,840 for the 120-credit program. Louisiana State University charges $301 per credit hour for its online BS program in finance with a real estate concentration, amounting to about $36,120 for the full program.

Old Dominion University has varying rates: Virginia residents pay $408 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $439 per credit hour, totaling $49,440 and $52,680, respectively, for the 120-credit program.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham charges $377 per credit hour for in-state students and $938 for out-of-state students, leading to total costs of $45,240 and $112,560, respectively.

Online tuition costs vary by field, but students often compare across disciplines for better budgeting. For example, the most affordable online physics degree programs offer insights into pricing structures and credit-hour rates that help prospective real estate students benchmark affordability and explore financially accessible education paths.

Students looking to advance quickly into leadership roles may also consider transitioning into an accelerated MBA program after completing their bachelor’s, especially if they aim to expand their skills in management, finance, and real estate strategy.

The chart below provides a visualization of the cost per credit of online real estate degree programs in the US, according to current tuition data from the featured academic institutions.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online real estate degree program?

Pursuing an online real estate degree can be a smart investment, and students do not have to navigate the costs alone. Various financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, and employer tuition assistance, can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses and make education more affordable.

• Call to Action Scholarship Program: The Call to Action Foundation provides need-based scholarships to students at public, nonprofit colleges and universities in the states of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Nevada, and Utah. Eligible students can receive a maximum of $25,000 in scholarships per year for 4 years. Applicants are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA, earn 500 hours of community service, and engage in the foundation’s educational activities.
• PG&E Grants & Scholarships: Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) offers grants and scholarships through the ERG & ENG Scholarships and Better Together STEM Scholarships. Students eligible for ERG & ENG Scholarships can get between $1,000 and $6,000 worth of educational assistance, while those qualified for Better Together STEM Scholarships can get $2,500, $5,000, or $10,000. Applicants are required to be California residents and PG&E customers during the application period.
• CREW Chicago Scholarship: CREW Chicago offers three scholarships yearly, with an award amount of up to $3,000 each. Applicants must be undergraduate or graduate students majoring in real estate, construction, facility management, architecture, and urban planning, among other related concentrations. 

Much like those pursuing a low cost sterile processing technician certification online, real estate students can apply for federal aid, grants, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement. Financial aid opportunities are widely available and play a crucial role in making online education more attainable and sustainable for diverse learners.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online real estate degree program?

To enroll in an online real estate degree program, prospective students usually need to meet a few key prerequisites that demonstrate academic readiness and interest in the field. These requirements help ensure students are prepared for the coursework and professional expectations.

• High School Diploma or GED: Applicants must have completed high school or earned an equivalent credential, as this is the foundational requirement for undergraduate study.
• Minimum GPA Requirement: Most programs require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 to 3.0, to assess academic performance and readiness for college-level work.
• Standardized Test Scores (Optional or Required): While some universities have moved to test-optional policies, others may still require SAT or ACT scores, particularly for competitive programs or scholarship consideration.

Real estate programs often have straightforward entry requirements—typically a high school diploma or equivalent—unlike specialized paths such as how to get into SLP grad school, which involve more rigorous prerequisites. This makes real estate degrees especially attractive for those seeking a quicker, more accessible career transition.

Meeting these prerequisites is the first step toward pursuing a career in real estate through an accredited online degree program.

What courses are typically in an online real estate degree program?

Online real estate degree programs offer a range of courses designed to provide students with a strong foundation in business, finance, and property management. These courses prepare graduates for various careers in real estate, from brokerage and appraisal to development and investment.

• Principles of Real Estate: This introductory course covers the fundamentals of real estate, including property ownership, land use, and legal concepts essential to the industry.
• Real Estate Finance: Students learn about mortgage markets, lending practices, and investment analysis, equipping them to evaluate real estate deals and funding options.
• Property Management: This course explores the day-to-day operations of managing residential or commercial properties, including tenant relations, leasing, and maintenance.
• Real Estate Law: Focused on legal aspects, this course examines contracts, zoning laws, and property rights, which helps students navigate the regulatory landscape.
• Urban Economics and Land Use: Students study how economic factors influence real estate markets, city development, and land valuation.

Should I pursue additional business education alongside my online real estate degree?

Investigating supplementary business studies can provide advanced strategic, financial, and leadership skills that enhance a real estate career. Complementary education, such as targeted business management courses or an MBA, can optimize decision-making and operational insights in dynamic market conditions. Evaluating programs that offer integrated learning opportunities, such as those found in the cheapest MBA programs, enables professionals to balance practical real estate expertise with broader managerial acumen.

How do accreditation and quality assurance impact program value?

Accreditation by recognized agencies validates a program’s commitment to industry standards and academic excellence. It ensures that the curriculum reflects current market practices and that faculty possess proven expertise, thereby enhancing both credibility and graduate outcomes. Quality assurance measures—such as periodic program reviews, student satisfaction surveys, and outcome monitoring—further establish a benchmark for continuous improvement. Evaluating these factors helps in comparing programs across disciplines; for instance, insights from reviews of the cheapest online MBA in healthcare management underscore the value of transparent metrics and standardized evaluations.

What advanced online degrees can complement my real estate career?

While an online real estate degree builds a solid foundation in industry-specific skills, advanced online degrees from complementary disciplines can enhance strategic thinking and leadership. Evaluating interdisciplinary programs—ranging from advanced business analytics and management to innovative technologies—can support a broader perspective on problem-solving and decision-making in dynamic market environments. Furthermore, exploring specialized advanced offerings, such as the online PharmD program, highlights the expanding scope of online education across sectors. Assessing each option’s curriculum, accreditation, and alignment with long-term objectives is essential for effectively augmenting your real estate expertise.

What types of specializations are available in online real estate degree programs?

Online real estate degree programs often offer specializations that enable students to align their education with specific career goals. These concentrations help deepen expertise in targeted areas of the real estate industry and can guide students exploring what to major in for a sales career, especially within property and real estate sectors.

• Real Estate Finance: This specialization focuses on investment analysis, real estate valuation, and mortgage lending. Students learn how to assess financial risks and returns, making it ideal for careers in commercial real estate, investment firms, or financial institutions.
• Property Management: Students gain skills in managing residential or commercial properties, including tenant relations, lease agreements, and maintenance planning. This track is suited for those aiming to oversee rental properties or work with real estate management companies.
• Urban Planning and Development: This specialization explores zoning laws, land use, and sustainable development. It prepares students for roles in public planning agencies or private development firms involved in city growth and infrastructure projects.

How do you choose the best online real estate degree program?

When choosing the best online real estate degree program, students should consider several key factors to ensure that they receive a quality education that meets their career goals:

• Accreditation: Ensure that the program is offered by an accredited academic institution. Accreditation guarantees that the education meets recognized academic standards and is respected by employers. Examples of accrediting bodies include the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and the AACSB International.
• Curriculum Relevance: Look for programs that offer a comprehensive and up-to-date curriculum that cover essential topics, such as property law, real estate finance, and market analysis, to prepare for licensure and professional success.
• Flexibility and Support: Consider programs that offer flexible scheduling options, such as asynchronous classes, along with strong student support services, including academic advising and career counseling.

What career paths are available to graduates of online real estate degree programs?

Graduates of online real estate degree programs can pursue several career paths. Each offers unique responsibilities and opportunities:

• Real Estate Sales Agent: Real estate sales agents work with clients to buy, sell, or rent properties. They serve as the first step in a real estate career while gaining valuable industry experience.
• Real Estate Broker: Real estate brokers manage real estate transactions independently or oversee a team of agents after obtaining a broker’s license. Thus, they may operate their own brokerage firm.
• Property Manager: Property managers oversee the daily operations of residential or commercial properties. They handle tenant issues, rent collection, maintenance, and budgeting.
• Real Estate Manager: Real estate managers oversee a portfolio of properties or investments. They focus on maximizing property value and return on investment through strategic planning. In some cases, their responsibilities may overlap with aspects of a sales manager job description, especially when managing leasing teams or driving property sales performance.
• Association Manager: Association managers administer homeowner or condominium associations. They ensure community rules are followed, budgets are managed, and residents’ concerns are addressed.

Much like those exploring what jobs can you get with a military science degree, graduates of online real estate programs discover diverse career paths—ranging from residential sales and property management to investment analysis—demonstrating how transferable skills can open multiple doors in both public and private sectors.

The chart below provides a visualization of the 2024 median annual wages of real estate professionals in the US, according to 2025 data from the US BLS.

What is the job market like for graduates of online real estate degree programs?

Graduates of online real estate degree programs can anticipate a steady job market with various opportunities. Employment for real estate brokers and sales agents is projected to grow by 2% from 2023 to 2033, which is slower than the average for all occupations. Despite this modest growth, approximately 46,000 job openings are expected each year over the decade, primarily due to the need to replace workers who leave the field or retire (US BLS, 2025).

In contrast, employment for property, real estate, and community association managers is projected to grow by 3% over the same period, aligning with the average for all occupations. This growth translates to about 37,800 job openings annually, driven by similar replacement needs (US BLS, 2025).

While overall growth rates are modest, the real estate sector continues to offer diverse career paths. Graduates with specialized skills in key real-estate areas, such as property management, real estate finance, or urban development, may find enhanced opportunities in these niches. For those aiming to deepen their financial expertise and move into investment or executive roles, pursuing an online masters in finance can further broaden their career potential. Moreover, the flexibility and entrepreneurial nature of real estate careers can be particularly appealing to those seeking autonomy and the potential for high earnings.

Other Things You Need to Know about Online Real Estate Degree Programs

What degree is best for real estate?

A bachelor's degree in business, finance, or real estate is best for a real estate career. It can provide you with foundational knowledge in property management, economics, and marketing to succeed as an agent, broker, or investor.

Does real estate have board examinations?

Real estate professionals must pass a state licensing examination, which serves as the board examination. Requirements vary by state, but they usually include pre-licensing education and a comprehensive test on real estate laws and practices.

What is the best degree for property management?

The best degree for property management is a bachelor’s in business administration, real estate, or finance. These programs provide essential skills in leasing, budgeting, marketing, and tenant relations, which are needed to effectively manage residential or commercial properties.

What is the highest degree in management?

The highest degree in management is a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or a PhD in Management. These programs focus on advanced leadership, research, and strategic decision-making skills for executive roles or academic careers.

References:

• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, May 16). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Query System. https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/industry/000000
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/property-real-estate-and-community-association-managers.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/real-estate-brokers-and-sales-agents.htm
• US Government. (2025, April 01). Minimum wage. Jobs, labor laws, and unemployment. https://www.usa.gov/minimum-wage