Real Estate Management MSc
MSc Real Estate Management
MSc Real Estate Management
Overview
Develop your career in managing real estate portfolios, including natural and built environments, with our professionally-driven Master's in Real Estate Management. You'll learn to use industry-standard software, apply managerial skills and report your findings accurately, all in a university with one of the longest-standing Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accreditations in the world.
You'll work with complex problems drawn from live real estate activity, produce reports to industry specifications throughout your assessments, and put your skills to work locally by taking part in community practice. Your teaching staff will include chartered surveyors, architects, civil engineers, economists, town planners, lawyers and environmentalists, with wide publication records and project management histories worth billions across the UK and Europe. You'll attend guest lectures given by RICS professionals from companies, such as Savilles, and from local government or other public sector organisations.
When you graduate, you'll have the knowledge and skills to build a career in real estate management. You'll also be eligible to begin the process of recognition as a Chartered Surveyor, or to enter research into the field.
Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and international students.
Course highlights
- Master real estate management skills, industry software and reporting methods, as you grapple with contemporary issues in the industry
- Build the necessary knowledge and experience to apply for Chartered Surveyor status
- Learn from practising real estate professionals, both as teaching staff and visiting lecturers, and use local case studies and community projects to develop your learning
- Study at one of the longest-established Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)-accredited centres in the world
- Plan and deliver a Master's project that follows your interest in real estate issues, such as investment, property development trends, corporate assets or planning
- Find your route into a property career from a wide range of academic backgrounds
Accreditation
What you'll study on this MSc Real Estate Management degree course
Full-time
All modules on this MSc Real Estate Management are core.
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Critically evaluate the technical criteria applicable to the design of a building
- Critique the impact of legislation, innovative materials and best practice guidance on the design and construction of buildings
- Discriminate between sustainable development strategies relating to technical decision-making in building construction projects
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Critically evaluate the theoretical and practical approaches to development appraisal.
- Critically evaluate the mechanisms that form the basis of open-market economic operations in property
- Critically analyse the financing methods appropriate for varied investment and development proposals
- Critically analyse the planning policies and urban design constraints for development proposals
- Critique the key techniques that may be employed in the management of property portfolios on behalf of a client
- Propose urban design solutions using professional-quality reports
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Estimate and critically evaluate various methods of valuation to freehold and leasehold property
- Critically analyse the factors influencing property valuation in a range of scenarios
- Critically assess the appropriate RICS standards and guidance notes on property valuation, as required within professional practice
- Critique the principal effects of UK statutory law on property valuation and management
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Apply management principles in the management of commercial property for the benefit of investors and users
- Critique the key techniques that may be employed in the management of property portfolios on behalf of a client
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the main principles of planning law and the role of policy and other planning methods in the planning process
- Evaluate the role of policy at national and local levels in the planning process, the means by which they are developed and approved and their implications for property interests
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of some of the main principles of land law and landlord and tenant law
- Critically analyse legal scenarios and apply relevant principles of land law and/or landlord and tenant law in order to comminication solutions and advice
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Assess the range of data required in order to undertake a construction project and make informed and balanced decisions based on critical appraisal of options
- Plan, investigate and execute a development design, based on a brief
- Communicate and defend the design and development of a scheme using professional communication techniques, as part of a team
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Appraise and evaluate key research tools and techniques
- Organise library searches effectively to identify key source material and review such material to establish a well-informed context for the project and appropriate justification for the topic
- Assemble a viable research methodology, recognising the quantitative and/or qualitative elements that are generic to such methodologies. Classify, analyse and develop the facts, principles and theories relevant to the project and apply them so as to present and justify an innovative solution or design, often in areas where information and practice are undeveloped
- Recognise and discuss any ethical considerations presented by the proposed project and formulate transparent procedures to protect participants and environments
- Analyse and synthesise the data collected to draw appropriate qualified conclusions linked to objectives set within research design
- Organise and plan work independently on a topic over an extended time frame and report progress regularly and effectively to a supervisor
Part-time
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Critically evaluate the technical criteria applicable to the design of a building
- Critique the impact of legislation, innovative materials and best practice guidance on the design and construction of buildings
- Discriminate between sustainable development strategies relating to technical decision-making in building construction projects
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Estimate and critically evaluate various methods of valuation to freehold and leasehold property
- Critically analyse the factors influencing property valuation in a range of scenarios
- Critically assess the appropriate RICS standards and guidance notes on property valuation, as required within professional practice
- Critique the principal effects of UK statutory law on property valuation and management
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Apply management principles in the management of commercial property for the benefit of investors and users
- Critique the key techniques that may be employed in the management of property portfolios on behalf of a client
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Critically evaluate the theoretical and practical approaches to development appraisal.
- Critically evaluate the mechanisms that form the basis of open-market economic operations in property
- Critically analyse the financing methods appropriate for varied investment and development proposals
- Critically analyse the planning policies and urban design constraints for development proposals
- Critique the key techniques that may be employed in the management of property portfolios on behalf of a client
- Propose urban design solutions using professional-quality reports
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the main principles of planning law and the role of policy and other planning methods in the planning process
- Evaluate the role of policy at national and local levels in the planning process, the means by which they are developed and approved and their implications for property interests
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of some of the main principles of land law and landlord and tenant law
- Critically analyse legal scenarios and apply relevant principles of land law and/or landlord and tenant law in order to comminication solutions and advice
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Assess the range of data required in order to undertake a construction project and make informed and balanced decisions based on critical appraisal of options
- Plan, investigate and execute a development design, based on a brief
- Communicate and defend the design and development of a scheme using professional communication techniques, as part of a team
The learning outcomes of this module are:
- Appraise and evaluate key research tools and techniques
- Organise library searches effectively to identify key source material and review such material to establish a well-informed context for the project and appropriate justification for the topic
- Assemble a viable research methodology, recognising the quantitative and/or qualitative elements that are generic to such methodologies. Classify, analyse and develop the facts, principles and theories relevant to the project and apply them so as to present and justify an innovative solution or design, often in areas where information and practice are undeveloped
- Recognise and discuss any ethical considerations presented by the proposed project and formulate transparent procedures to protect participants and environments
- Analyse and synthesise the data collected to draw appropriate qualified conclusions linked to objectives set within research design
- Organise and plan work independently on a topic over an extended time frame and report progress regularly and effectively to a supervisor
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Careers and opportunities
Careers this Master's prepares you for
You'll graduate with the real estate management skills and knowledge to put your learning to work immediately. As a RICS-accredited professional, you are well-placed for senior roles in the industry – you'll know the software used in the industry, you'll have experience in producing industry-standard reports, and you'll have had the opportunity to build your professional contacts through site visits and university events.
And, according to the recent Digital Front Line report from Causeway Construction, you'll be entering a sector as it bounces back from lockdown with government investment and a commitment to its own digital reinvention.
Graduates of this course have gone onto roles such as:
- Property development
- Planning permissions
- Valuation
- Building methods
- Project management
- Consultancy
Graduates of this course have gone on to work for companies such as:
- AECOM
- Savills
- Gleeds
Career planning
During your course you'll have expert careers advice from our Careers and Employability Centre, your tutors and our Student Placements and Employability Centre. You can access support from our Careers and Employability Centre for up to 5 years after you graduate.
How you'll spend your time
We recognise that you'll probably be juggling more demands when you do your Master's degree, as you may be working or you may have family responsibilities.
We'll give you as much indication here as we can of how much time you'll need to be on campus and how many hours you can expect to spend in self-directed study, but please note that these indications are always subject to change. You should receive your full timetable several weeks before you start with us.
It is our expectation that all international students will join us here on campus in Portsmouth.
Course structure
This Master's degree will take 12 months (full-time study) or 2 years (part-time study).
In the full-time course you can expect:
- 10 hours of teaching time every week. We do our best to keep all teaching within two days, leaving you the rest of the week for work experience or self-guided study. Currently full-time students attend teaching on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
- 20 hours of independent study each week
In the part-time course you can expect:
- 5 hours of teaching time every week. We do our best to keep all teaching within one day for part-time study, leaving you the rest of the week for work experience or self-guided study.
- 10 hours of independent study each week
In the last 3 months of the course you'll be focusing on your research project.
Teaching
Master's study is deeper and more specialised than an undergraduate degree. This means you'll focus on something that really matters to you and your career as you work closely with academics committed to the subject.
You'll spend more time in independent study and research than you did for your undergraduate degree, but the majority of your teaching time will be in-person and face-to-face.
Teaching methods on this course include:
- teaching salons
- studios
- seminars
- guest speakers
- site visits
- fieldwork
Assessment
You'll be assessed through:
- coursework
- group work
- presentations
- traditional exams
Teaching staff
These are some of the expert staff who'll teach you on this course:
Steven Neale
I'm a Chartered Surveyor who previously ran my own building surveying consultancy, specialising in defect diagnosis and commercial energy assessment. I've also been a lecturer in higher education and in CPD courses for the Construction Study Centre and National Energy Services. My research interests are in condensation and mould in buildings, and in building performance, use and control.
Mark Danso-Amoako
I'm a senior lecturer at Portsmouth with interests in computer information systems, automation in construction, construction software development, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and interoperability between applications in the Architectural, Engineering and Construction industry. I worked on the $400 million Takoradi Thermal Power Project in Ghana, and have developed several IT solutions for construction companies in the USA.
Term dates
September start
The Master's academic year runs from September to the following September. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter. Over the summer you'll be writing your project/dissertation.
Joining us as an international student
You'll feel at home in our international community and our diverse city. You'll be joining over 5,000 international students from more than 150 countries who are studying with us.
Learn more about international student life and how we can help you with visas, applications, arrival and settling in.
Supporting your learning
Master's study is more focused on independent learning than undergraduate study, but you'll get lots of support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:
Types of support
Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to postgraduate study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your Master's.
As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.
You'll have help from a team of faculty learning support tutors. They can help you improve and develop your academic skills and support you in any area of your study in one-on-one and group sessions.
They can help you:
- master the mathematics skills you need to excel on your course
- understand engineering principles and how to apply them in any engineering discipline
- solve computing problems relevant to your course
- develop your knowledge of computer programming concepts and methods relevant to your course
- understand and use assignment feedback
All our labs and practical spaces are staffed by qualified laboratory support staff. They’ll support you in scheduled lab sessions and can give you one-to-one help when you do practical research projects.
As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University’s Academic Skills Unit (ASK).
ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:
- academic writing
- note taking
- time management
- critical thinking
- presentation skills
- referencing
- working in groups
- revision, memory and exam techniques
If you have a disability or need extra support, the Additional Support and Disability Centre (ASDAC) will give you help, support and advice.
Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.
You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.
If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.
They'll help you to:
- discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
- liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
- access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
- liaise with external services
Library staff are available in person or by email, phone or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.
The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.
The Maths Cafe offers advice and assistance with mathematical skills in a friendly, informal environment. You can come to our daily drop-in sessions, develop your mathematics skills at a workshop or use our online resources.
If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees (September 2022 start)
- Full-time: £8,100
- Part-time: £4,050 per year
- Full time: £18,300
- Part time: £9,150 per year
University of Portsmouth graduates may receive a 20% alumni tuition fee discount.
Fees are subject to annual increase. Read our tuition fees terms and conditions.
You'll be able to pay your fees in instalments. Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Funding your studies
Explore how to fund your studies, including available scholarships and bursaries.
If you're a UK student, you may be eligible for a Government Postgraduate Master's Loan, which you can use to help with course fees and living costs.
If you're a UK student who achieved a first in your undergraduate degree you may be eligible for a £3,000 University of Portsmouth scholarship.
Additional costs
These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees, so you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending. Additional costs could include:
- Accommodation: Accommodation options and costs can be found on our accommodation pages.
- Recommended reading: You can borrow key texts from the library and if you choose to purchase these texts they may cost up to £60 each.
- General costs: such photocopying, memory sticks, printing charges, binding and specialist printing. We suggest budgeting £75 per year.
- Final project transport or accommodation: where necessary, which related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
Read more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Entry requirements
Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and international students.
January 2023 / September 2023 / January 2024 start
- A good honours degree or equivalent in any discipline. Business Studies, Social Sciences, Humanities and Liberal Arts, Geography, Economics or Law are examples, but any applicant with demonstrable commitment to, enthusiasm for or experience in the field with a good standard of literacy will also be considered.
Please get in touch if you're not sure if your undergraduate subject is relevant to this degree.
Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will also be considered, such as previous study, employment, voluntary work and training courses, including courses and qualifications you didn't complete. Learn more about our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
If you're applying as an international student with a non-UK degree, you’ll need to show you meet the UK entry requirements listed above.
To find out if your non-UK degree or other qualification is accepted, please visit our page for your country and view the UK equivalent of your qualification.
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 (or equivalent) with no component score below 5.5.
You do not need an IELTS or equivalent certification if:
- you have a UK degree
- you have a degree from a majority English speaking country (not taught by Distance Learning)
- you are a national of a majority English speaking country
Degrees taught solely in English from non-majority English speaking countries will be considered on a case by case basis. Find out more about our English language requirements.
If you do not meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
How to apply
Unlike undergraduate applications, which go through UCAS, applications for this Master's course are made directly to us.
There's no deadline for applications to this course. We accept applications right up until the start date in September, as long as there are places available. If you wait until September to apply, you may find that the course is full.
If you're applying as an international student, remember that you'll need to leave plenty of time to get your visa organised.
You can find more advice about applying in our Master's application checklist. International students and current students and recent graduates of the University of Portsmouth also have some different application options, which are detailed below.
Extra information for international students
If you're an international student, you can apply directly to us using the same application form as UK students.
You could also get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region. To find out what to include in your application, head to the how to apply page of our international students section.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Ready to apply?
Standard applications
Start this course in January 2023
Start this course in September 2023
Start this course in January 2024
I'm a current Portsmouth student, or a recent Portsmouth graduate
If you're currently in your final year of study at Portsmouth, or you graduated since July 2021, you're eligible to make a fast track application. You'll have:
- a shorter application form to complete
- access to the 20% Alumni fee discount
- a guaranteed conditional offer, for most Master's courses
After you apply
Once we receive your application, we may ask you for further information. We will then either make you an offer or suggest alternatives if your application is unsuccessful.
You'll usually get a decision within 10 working days, so you shouldn't have to wait too long. Some courses have an interview stage – we'll let you know if you need to prepare for one.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.
