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Urban real estate development stands as one of the most influential factors molding our structures, urban landscapes, and metropolitan areas. Decisions regarding construction projects—what to erect, where to place them, and how to execute them—affect urban sustainability, fairness, and durability from financial planning to architectural design, with lasting consequences for generations.
Our fast-growing urban environments confront significant issues, from environmental crises to societal disparities. The industry requires real estate experts with profound insights into how development can generate societal and ecological advantages, along with an appreciation for design's role in creating functional, appealing, unique, and cherished urban spaces.
The Nancy and Douglas Abbey Master of Real Estate Development Design (Abbey MREDD) is a cross-disciplinary graduate program that equips professionals to create cities that are environmentally sound, socially just, and economically thriving.
While the coursework addresses core real estate developer competencies—financial principles, economic factors and market assessment, zoning regulations and permitting, project viability studies, and the intricacies of urban development—design is intentionally highlighted in the program's title. The Abbey MREDD breaks from convention by connecting real estate with design philosophy, grounded in two key beliefs: First, that exceptional urban design, city planning, and sustainable practices are essential for prosperous real estate ventures. Second, that design methodology—the cyclical practice of identifying issues, testing solutions, and refining through feedback—is crucial for creating the most desirable and worthwhile development projects. Armed with knowledge of how thoughtful design enhances project worth, our alumni gain the skills and perspective to tackle major contemporary challenges through real estate and make meaningful contributions to the neighborhoods they help shape.