I
n the dynamic world of real estate, developers must possess a deep understanding of industry skills to create transformative projects that positively impact communities. Auburn University's Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) program offers an executive-style education that empowers working professionals to excel in their careers.
Thornton Ratliff, Principal and Founder of SRV Housing Partners, credits Auburn's MRED program with propelling his success. A 2015 graduate, Thornton leveraged the program's flexible format to maintain his career track while acquiring new skills. "Auburn's MRED program gave me the leg up I needed to break into the development world and achieve my ultimate goal of being a real estate developer," he says.
Launched in 2010, Auburn's MRED program is a joint offering from the Harbert College of Business and the College of Architecture, Design and Construction. The program focuses on producing real estate development projects that emphasize best practices in design excellence, economic resilience, financial feasibility, social responsibility, and sustainability.
Dr. Justin Benefield, Director of the MRED program, notes that the program attracts students from diverse backgrounds, all seeking to break into real estate development. "We're geared towards professionals who want to make a meaningful impact in their careers," he says.
Auburn's MRED program stands out with its online courses and Field Studies, which allow students to learn at their own pace while engaging in hands-on experiences. Over five semesters, cohorts participate in six on-campus residencies, four domestic and international Field Studies, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities that foster expertise sharing.
Thornton Ratliff's experience is a testament to the program's effectiveness. He used his MRED degree to found SRV Housing Partners in 2022, with a goal of developing one institutional-sized Class A housing asset every 18-24 months in the Southeast. Currently, SRV Housing Partners is working on a new residential development in Mobile's Midtown Historic District.
When asked if the MRED program was worth it, Thornton confidently replied, "I am confident that I would not have the platform I have today without Auburn's MRED program."
