Florida International University: Shaping the Skyline of Miami

Widely recognized for its vibrant energy and cosmopolitan appeal, Miami has long been known as an international city. Today, the city is a fast-paced global hub for business, technology, investment and entrepreneurship, with world-class arts, sports and culinary destinations. Renowned for its luxury condominiums and waterfront properties, it’s one of the most coveted real estate markets in the world, with its tech boom driving additional demand for commercial space.

Boasting a rich tapestry of architectural marvels and lucrative investment opportunities, Miami's skyline reflects a history shaped by diverse influences and the vision of pioneering developers. At the heart of this evolution lies the Hollo School of Real Estate at Florida International University’s College of Business (FIU Business), a premier institution driving innovation, research and education in real estate.

Miami is Real Estate and FIU is Miami.

A world leader in real estate education and research, FIU Business is one of a select group of business schools in the U.S. to offer undergraduate and graduate programs in real estate. The Hollo School of Real Estate’s Master of Science in International Real Estate focuses on high-level real estate transactions with an international scope. Internationally renowned faculty offer courses that develop real-world knowledge in valuation, investment analysis, real estate markets, performance measurement, corporate asset management, financing techniques, law, technology and accounting.

Given Miami's status as an international real estate hub, Florida International University embraces a global perspective, offering specialized real estate courses and experiential learning opportunities focused on international real estate markets.

From a location in the heart of Miami’s financial district, students observe real estate deals as they happen, with speakers in the classroom who are the dealmakers, including renowned developers, brokers and bankers. Students gain exposure to diverse real estate practices and emerging trends, enhancing their competitive edge to become major players in the U.S. and international markets, including South Florida’s dynamic regional market.

Ranked No. 1 in the World for Real Estate Research

Through innovative research initiatives, Florida International University contributes to the advancement of real estate knowledge and practices. In 2023, FIU Business was ranked No.1 globally for real estate research productivity by the Journal of Real Estate Literature for the fourth consecutive year. Faculty members engage in interdisciplinary research, addressing critical issues such as housing and urban economics, climate finance, and real estate pricing and analysis, especially as it relates to the dynamic Miami market

Producing Miami Real Estate’s Movers and Shakers

The vast majority of FIU Business alumni choose to live and work in Miami, and that means its real estate program graduates are leaders in every real estate sector, including acquisitions, mortgage brokerage, consulting, investments, appraisal, law and development. Florida International University also excels at keeping its entrepreneurial alumni in South Florida.  According to the Switch on Business website, which identified the top 20 U.S. colleges instrumental in producing local business founders, Florida International University ranked eighth in the U.S., with nearly 40% of graduate founders launching a business in Miami. These Florida International University graduates are part of the driving force behind Miami’s real estate growth, helping to develop, construct, finance and sell the iconic buildings shaping the city’s skyline.

Every fall the Hollo School of Real Estate presents the REact Real Estate Conference. Now in its third year, REact brings together more than 200 attendees to explore challenges and opportunities as well as what lies ahead in the Miami real estate market.

The conference brings together unique perspectives from real estate industry insiders, experts and renowned researchers, including many notable FIU Business alumni and faculty members. Topics have included the biggest factors driving today’s environment; the relationship between technology and the real estate industry; the past, present and future of Miami; and how academia is preparing the next generation of leading-edge investors. The 2023 conference, themed “Miami on the Rise: Managing Growth and Preserving Community,” explored the growth and increased challenges that have become a mixed blessing for Miami’s real estate landscape, driving industry leaders to diversify their ventures.

The Wynwood Garage, in Miami’s eclectic Wynwood neighborhood, developed by Goldman Properties / Architectural Design by Faulders Studio / Photo Credit: Moris Moreno

The Wynwood Garage, in Miami’s eclectic Wynwood neighborhood, developed by Goldman Properties / Architectural Design by Faulders Studio / Photo Credit: Moris Moreno

Shaping Miami's Skyline Together

The synergy between Miami's real estate market and Florida International University is undeniable. As Miami continues to evolve and redefine itself, FIU Business remains at the forefront, shaping the next generation of real estate professionals and influencing the trajectory of the city's skyline. Through innovation, education and collaboration, Miami and FIU Business are moving forward together on a journey of continued growth and transformation, leaving an indelible mark on the urban landscape for generations to come. 

“The difference between Miami and other gateway cities is staggering. Miami is the winner, even though the price appreciation was so high, the pricing in Miami is still significantly lower than in other gateway cities.”
Eli Beracha Director of the Hollo School of Real Estate

This content was paid for and created by Florida International University. The editorial staff at The Chronicle had no role in its preparation. Find out more about paid content.