The School of Business

Real Estate Property Management

• Recession-Proof Skills in a High-Growth Industry: Develop in-demand, recession-resistant skills with a specialization in property management—a field that continues to grow even during economic downturns. According to CEL & Associates, the U.S. will see an increase of 33,000 property management jobs by 2026, offering long-term career stability. The National Apartment Association also projects that by 2030, Oregon will add 57,000 new apartment homes and Washington 137,000, all requiring skilled, educated professionals to manage them.
• Accelerate Your Career in Property Management: Property management offers rapid advancement opportunities. National data shows that graduates can become property managers of their own apartment communities—overseeing multi-million dollar budgets and managing teams of leasing agents, maintenance professionals, and consultants—within just two years of starting their careers.
• Build Valuable Industry Connections: At Portland State University, the Center for Real Estate connects students directly to the industry. Through partnerships with organizations like BOMA, IREM, Multifamily NW, and the National Apartment Association, you’ll gain access to mentors, networking events, and real-world experiences that enhance your resume and job prospects.
• Hands-On Experience Through Internships: Students are encouraged to take part in paid internships or the PSU CO-OP program while completing their coursework. These opportunities give you practical, on-the-job training with local property management firms, helping you build your professional experience and expand your industry network before graduation.
• Scholarships and Student Support: PSU’s Center for Real Estate provides exclusive scholarships for students pursuing the Certificate or Minor in Real Estate Property Management (CREPM). You’ll also join a strong peer network through the Real Estate Emerging Leaders (REEL) student club—offering professional development, guest speakers, and community-building opportunities.

Real Estate Property Management Minor & Certificate Highlights

• Launch a High-Demand Career in Property Management: Prepare for a career in property and real estate management—a field with strong salary potential, consistent demand, and long-term career growth. With increasing development across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, qualified professionals are needed to manage multi-family housing, commercial buildings, and sustainable smart properties.
• Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Portland State University’s Real Estate Property Management program offers a rigorous curriculum that complements your undergraduate business degree and builds a comprehensive understanding of the key systems that drive commercial property operations. You’ll develop expertise in:
  • Accounting and budgeting for real estate
  • Human resource and team management
  • Legal and fair housing compliance
  • Facilities maintenance and smart building technologies
  • Industry software tools (property management platforms, CRM, and more)
• Hands-On, Experiential Learning: Gain practical experience that extends beyond the classroom:
  • Participate in property tours and learn directly from industry guest speakers
  • Complete internships or part-time work at property sites through PSU’s Center for Real Estate
  • Assess real properties and develop comprehensive property management plans, with a focus on sustainability and long-term asset value
• Accelerate Your Professional Credentials: The program sets you on the path toward industry-recognized designations such as a Certified Property Manager (CPM) and/or Residential Property Manager (RPM). These credentials are widely respected by employers and can help you move quickly into leadership roles.
• Serve Diverse Communities with Language Skills: Bilingual students bring valuable assets to the field. Many multifamily properties serve non-English speaking tenants, and multilingual professionals are in high demand. Pair your language skills with this specialization to stand out in the job market and better serve your community.