An online associate degree is an excellent place to start for students looking to start a career in real estate. These programs offer a solid foundation in real estate principles and provide potentially lucrative job opportunities.
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as real estate agents, who earn a median salary of $54,300, with the top 10% making over $119,590. Property managers see a median salary of $62,850, with the highest earners making over $135,990. With further education, you could become a real estate broker, earning a median salary of $62,850, with the top 10% exceeding $160,980.
Most full-time students complete their degree in two years, with an average annual tuition cost of $3,885.
Why Trust Us
The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
- Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
- 800+ rankings pages are reviewed and updated yearly
- Content is informed by reputable sources, surveys, and interviews with academic advisors and other experts
- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Real Estate degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 11 Accredited Online Associate Degree in Real Estate Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Lorain County Community College
Intelligent Score: 99.60In-state: $16,368
Out-of-state: $20,964
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 480 or higher
ACT: 18-22
County Resident: $159 Out-of-County Resident: $184
Out-of-State: $335
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60-62
Clark State Community College
Intelligent Score: 99.49In-state: $17,960
Out-of-state: $21,376
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 430 or higher
ACT: 18 or higher
In-State: $147
Out-of-State: $294
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Houston Community College
Intelligent Score: 99.40In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-District: $33 Out-of-District: $121
Out-of-State: $151
Online, On-Campus, Hybrid
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
60
San Jacinto College
Intelligent Score: 99.18In-state: $31,306
Out-of-state: $35,506
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: NA
ACT: NA
In-District: $83 Out-of-District: $144
Out-of-State: $223
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
60
College of Southern Nevada
Intelligent Score: 97.87In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $189
Out-of-State: $208
Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
61
Waukesha County Technical College
Intelligent Score: 97.80In-state: $19,066
Out-of-state: $21,217
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: 17 or higher
$198
Hybrid
Higher Learning Commission
62
Hinds Community College
Intelligent Score: 97.80In-state: $12,150
Out-of-state: $15,200
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 1010
ACT: 20
Resident: $150
Non-Resident: $275
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
60-64
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Intelligent Score: 95.53In-state: $21,101
Out-of-state: $23,252
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $166
Out-of-State: $239
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
60
Dallas College
Intelligent Score: 94.23In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $79
Out-of-State: $135
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
60
Columbia College
Intelligent Score: 89.95In-state: $17,791
Out-of-state: $17,791
In-state: $10,671
Out-of-state: $10,671
SAT: 820-1050
ACT: 17-20
$375
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Cerritos College
Intelligent Score: 88.95In-state: $24,872
Out-of-state: $33,832
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
Resident: $46
Non-Resident: $282
Online
Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
60
How to Choose an Online Associate Degree in Real Estate Program
Choose your area of study
By choosing an area of study, you can align your education with your career goals. Start by asking yourself:
- What aspect of real estate excites me most?
- Do I prefer working directly with clients or behind the scenes?
- Am I interested in residential or commercial real estate?
Popular options include property management, ideal for those who enjoy day-to-day operations and tenant relations; real estate appraisal, which suits those who like data and property valuation; and real estate sales, perfect for those with strong communication skills and enthusiasm about client interaction.
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve chosen an area of study, you can shift your focus to researching schools and programs. You may come into this process with a few questions of your own, but here are some others to consider:
- Is the program accredited?
- What are the faculty’s credentials and experience in real estate?
- Does the curriculum align with my career goals?
- What support services are available for online students?
- What are the graduation and job placement rates?
You can find this information on program websites, by speaking with admissions counselors, or by attending a virtual open house. Many students also benefit from using forums like LinkedIn and Reddit to connect with current and former students, gaining additional perspective.
Prepare for tests and applications
With your shortlist of schools, it’s time to begin test and application prep. First, be sure to double-check application requirements, as they can vary significantly by program. Start gathering transcripts and letters of recommendation early, and allow ample time to draft your personal statement if needed.
Many programs don’t require ACT or SAT scores, but it’s essential to confirm this. If scores are needed, consider enrolling in a test prep program to boost your performance.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. Revisit your initial research criteria, focusing on what matters most to you, whether it’s curriculum relevance, the faculty you’ll learn from, or flexibility in scheduling. This is also the perfect time to reassess the total cost of attendance and compare financial aid offers, especially those with scholarships and grants, which don’t need to be repaid.
To make an informed decision, weigh the pros and cons of each option, ensuring the program you pick aligns with your career goals and financial situation.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Paying for your degree without incurring debt may feel impossible, but many financial aid resources are available to help.
Start by submitting the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. Prioritize applying for institutional and external scholarships and grants, as these funds don’t need to be repaid.
If your program offers work-study opportunities, they are worth considering. They can be a way to earn money while studying. For those in a related field, explore employer tuition reimbursement programs, which can significantly reduce costs.
Even with these resources, financial gaps may exist. If you need to borrow, opt for federal loans over private ones, as they typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options.
What Can You Expect From an Online Associate Degree in Real Estate Program?
Pursuing an online associate degree in real estate program will give you foundational knowledge in property management, real estate law, appraisal, finance, and marketing. You’ll learn about property valuation, real estate principles, investment strategies, and the legal aspects of real estate transactions.
Most programs require 60 to 70 credit hours and take about two years to complete. Coursework is relatively common to be available entirely online, and some programs require an internship or capstone project in the final semester.
Post-graduation, you’ll be well-equipped for careers as real estate agents, property managers, appraisers, or real estate assistants, with the option to further your education for advanced roles in the industry.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online associate degree in real estate program
- Introduction to Real Estate: While it may go by a different name, virtually all programs offer a variation of this course. Lessons cover the basics of real estate, including property rights, types of ownership, and the roles of various professionals in the industry. Students will learn about the processes involved in buying, selling, and leasing properties.
- Real Estate Law: Frequently a core requirement, this course ensures students understand the regulatory environment and legal responsibilities in real estate transactions. Participants will explore the legal aspects of real estate, such as contracts, property disclosures, zoning laws, and landlord-tenant laws.
- Real Estate Finance: Another fundamental course, this class teaches students about financing options, mortgage markets, and financial instruments used in real estate transactions. Lessons also cover assessing financial risks and returns on real estate investments.
- Property Management: Typically deemed an elective, this course teaches how to manage residential and commercial properties. Topics may include tenant relations, lease agreements, maintenance, and financial management, preparing students for careers in property management.
- Real Estate Appraisal: This upper-level course focuses on methods and techniques for determining the value of real estate properties. Learners will study different appraisal approaches, including cost, income, and sales comparison methods, essential for roles in property valuation and appraisal.
Online Associate Degree in Real Estate Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online associate degree in real estate program?
Most online associate degree programs in real estate offer a straightforward application process. While some may have specific requirements, most follow a simple process:
- Completed application form
- High school diploma or GED
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
Don’t hesitate to contact an admissions counselor before applying. They can offer additional guidance on your application and address any specific questions.
How much does an online associate degree in real estate cost?
The average annual tuition for two-year postsecondary institutions is $3,885. However, this amount can vary based on factors like residency status and whether the institution is public or private. As an online student, you’ll also want to be prepared for additional expenses like textbooks, technology fees, and exam proctoring. These costs can add up over time, but you’ll likely save on commuting, housing, and campus-related fees.
How long does it take to earn an online associate degree in real estate?
Completing this degree often takes two years of full-time study, while part-time students may take three to four years. Full-time study is generally ideal for those with fewer work or family obligations, while part-time is better suited for working professionals or those with significant personal commitments.
Be sure to double-check total credit requirements, as they vary by institution and can impact your completion timeline.