MRED+D Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for fall or spring admission?

The MRED+D program only starts in the summer and all students must begin during the summer term. We do not admit students for fall or spring semesters.

Are there concurrent degree or dual degree programs with the MRED+D?

No concurrent degree programs have been developed for the MRED+D. UC Berkeley does not offer ad hoc joint degree programs and applicants may only apply to one single degree program per admissions cycle.

How many students will be enrolled?

We expect to welcome a cohort of about 25 students for the next upcoming MRED+D class.

What type of quantitative background should MRED+D applicants have before starting the program?

The MRED+D program includes a rigorous quantitative curriculum. To ensure success, applicants should be well versed in using Microsoft Excel as both a reporting tool and a modeling tool. Applicants should also possess a fundamental understanding of finance ratios, ​capital structure theory, forecasting methods, and risk-return analysis. Applicants without this background are strongly ​encouraged to pursue training through community college or other online courses before the start of the program. For suggested options, please contact our admissions team at mredd@berkeley.edu.

How many hours do MRED+D students spend on the program?

The MRED+D program is a full-time on-campus program. Students can expect to dedicate full-time to the program during the 6-week summer term with a rigorous load of coursework. During the fall and spring terms, students can expect to spend a minimum of 12 hours of in-class time per week and a minimum of 24 hours per week of work outside the classroom. In the case of a semester that includes a studio, students should anticipate more hours in class since studio courses involve extensive on-site studio work.

Can students give special attention to a specific aspect of real estate?

Absolutely. Because students will come from varied educational backgrounds and have a range or work experience, students can opt to focus their electives on finance, law, and other technical aspects of real estate transactions, for example, or provide more in-depth training on aspects of design, housing, or urban development. In addition to the core curriculum, students in the MRED+D program are able to choose from among the rich offerings of the academic disciplines and professional programs on the Berkeley campus.

Can I apply if my work experience is not in real estate?

Students in the MRED+D program come from diverse backgrounds with a range of different levels of experience in the real estate field and in related industries such as architecture, construction, commercial real estate finance, law, city planning, and commercial real estate brokerage. 

Do I need a degree in a specific field to apply?

No. We welcome applicants from a variety of prior undergraduate and graduate fields of study.

Is there a strict requirement for the amount of work experience one must have in order to apply?

The MRED+D curriculum is designed to build upon your work experience. As such, we look closely at your career progression when making admissions decision. We also consider the combination of education, training, and work experience together.

Who are the faculty for the MRED+D program?

MRED+D Faculty include both College of Environmental Design professors and professionals including some of the most widely recognized real estate and urban development professionals in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Will the MRED+D program sponsor international student visas admitted to the program?

Yes. If an offer of admission is extended, then UC Berkeley will assist you in obtaining a student visa.

How do I apply for department admissions fellowships?

There is no separate application for our competitive merit-based fellowships. Submission of the required application materials will automatically qualify you for fellowship eligibility. If awarded a department fellowship, we will notify recipients.