Online Real Estate Development Degree Program Info

Real estate lawyers specialize in projects that involve construction of buildings on vacant land or renovation of existing properties. Online graduate law programs in real estate development are available and include courses in planning and zoning, real estate financial analysis and real estate documents.

Online Master of Law in Real Estate Development Overview

Those who hold law (J.D.) degrees can enroll in an online master's program to specialize in real estate development. Concepts in property value, location, market analysis, construction and financing are reviewed. Students learn how to work with architects, city planners and inspectors in real estate development projects.

Program Information and Requirements

This program can be completed in 2-5 years depending on course load. Some time on campus might be necessary to fulfill internship requirements. Internships involve working with private and public agencies in real estate development transactions.
Class lectures are either available online for access at any time or presented during scheduled sessions using a remote webinar application. Students are required to have a computer equipped with a high-speed Internet connection, microphone and Web camera.

List of Common Real Estate Development Courses

Coursework includes a combination of real estate market and property development law topics. Attorneys or specialists with experience in real estate development law typically teach these classes.

Financial Transactions in Real Estate Course

Students are introduced to the negotiation skills used between developers and investors. Analysis of financial performance effects on real estate investments is reviewed.

Development Law Course

Legal processes and topics relating to real estate development transactions are covered in this course. Topics include contract design and negotiation, zoning laws and commercial real estate laws.

Real Estate Finance Course

Students learn about current issues for borrowers and lenders in real estate financing. Topics include recourse and nonrecourse loans, due-on-sale loan assumptions and bankruptcy.

Environmental Regulations Course

The state and local laws that regulate land use and development are discussed in this course. Issues of agriculture and wildlife impact, air quality and noise ordinances are covered.

Construction and Design Documents Course

This course exposes students to documents commonly used in construction projects. Architectural drafting designs, contracts, insurance and bonds are examples of documents to be reviewed.

Career Information for Graduates

Those with Master of Law (LL.M.) in Real Estate Development degrees are qualified to practice as real estate attorneys. The median annual wage of real estate attorneys was $115,409 in 2009 according to 'Salary.com'.