Commercial Real Estate Finance

Commercial real estate represents more than 30 percent of the U.S. macro economy.

In this program you'll learn how to analyze cash flows, broker complex transactions and assemble financial support for preserving historic properties. You may find yourself in investment analysis, market research, brokerage, development, consulting and more.

Why study commercial real estate finance at the College of Charleston? 

Learn the art of commercial real estate in the place where it's all happening - Charleston, S.C. The commercial real estate finance major is the first of its kind offered in South Carolina. It's also one of the only finance-driven commercial real estate programs in the country. Our growing population and thriving tourism industry makes Charleston the place to hone your skills.

What will I learn? 

As one of the only finance-driven commercial real estate programs in the country, you will develop a unique skill set that will benefit you in your search for that perfect career. This program is designed to prepare you to work with industry data and software such as CoStar and ARGUS. You will learn to do market, valuation and feasibility analyses. 

View Curriculum: Commercial Real Estate Finance

Program Highlights


Go beyond just a real estate license. Build your skills through experiential learning opportunities and learn from industry experts in a city with a booming commercial real estate market.
  • Hands-on Learning
    Carter Real Estate Center 

    The Carter Real Estate Center will offer you a relevant and rigorous academic experience. You, alumni, faculty, peers and industry leaders all collaborate to find practical solutions to issues facing the industry today. Support research, build relationships and learn about internship and job opportunities.

    Internship Opportunities

    Leverage the resources within the School of Business to find exciting internship opportunities in the Lowcountry and across the globe. We also have an impressive roster of alumni ready to network and mentor up-and-coming commercial real estate mogels. 

    Study Abroad 

    Participate in a week-long Panama Canal summer study abroad trip focused on real estate and explore the impact of canal expansion on global trade.

  • Senior Project

    Your senior year will be filled with real-life valuation analysis, putting real estate decisions in your hands. Work in the classroom to figure out what type of spaces should be added to real Charleston neighborhoods. This required course will teach you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in real estate.

  • Location

    Where better to learn the art of analyzing cash flows for new properties, brokering a large transaction with a client or preserving a historic building than the place where it’s all happening—Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston’s growing population and tourism sector drive the need for more retail, restaurant, office, hotel and other commercial spaces.

Careers & Outcomes


Our program is designed to prepare you for a wide range of professional opportunities in corporate real estate management, real estate brokerage, appraisal, property management, development, mortgage lending and banking. Greystar and Colliers are top employers of our commercial real estate finance alumni. No matter where you find work, you will be competitive in your field.