Online Real Estate Certification, Certificate and Diploma Programs

Real estate certificate and diploma programs offer students the training necessary to work in real estate. While certificate programs are available online, distance-learning diploma programs in the field are rare. States mandate that agents obtain licensure to practice real estate.

Online Real Estate Certificate Program

Award Levels

The required level of study for real estate sale agents and brokers varies depending on the student's individual goals. The most common level of training for entry-level positions in real estate is a certificate program. However, the higher level of education someone completes the better the job opportunities.

License

While real estate specialty certifications are available through the National Association of Realtors, in every state, real estate sales agents require a license to practice. In order to qualify for a license, real estate sales agents must complete 60-90 hours of classroom instruction.
The state exam tests the applicant's knowledge of property sale laws and regulations. Online programs offer complete preparation for real estate license tests, which must be renewed every 1-2 years.

Program Type

Online programs in real estate offer students a variety of enrollment options such as online immersion, low-residency (hybrid) and self-paced programs. Online immersion programs provide course instruction though video, voice and e-mail correspondence and generally don't require students to visit the campus. They are well-suited for working professionals who require access to course material and lectures at any time of day or night.
Hybrid programs require students to spend at least part of their time on-campus and provide more hands-on training opportunities. Students who may need extra tutoring in computer software and Internet programs may benefit from some face-to-face classroom instruction. A few schools may also offer accelerated or self-paced study options that allow students to complete courses at their chosen pace.

Technical Requirements

In order to take part in the online program, students must have regular access to an online network and high-speed Internet. Students will need some level of technical fluency to be able to learn. It's also important to be comfortable with a number of administrative and accounting software programs.

Online Certificate Program in Real Estate

Real estate agents often work for a real estate office where they sell properties to prospective homeowners. Students should look for an online program in the state they intend to work in, as online certificate programs are tailored to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to pass the state's exam. Typical certificate programs last from a few months to a year. Students in the program are introduced to concepts in property appraisal, encumbrances, laws, financing, contracts and brokerage.