Paul Rubacha Department of Real Estate

The Paul Rubacha Department of Real Estate is taking a dynamic approach to real estate education and thought leadership. Led jointly by the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning and the SC Johnson College of Business, the department believes in a multidisciplinary approach that combines expertise in architecture, finance, planning, economics and law.

A student viewing a three-dimensional city model.

No. 1

largest full-time real estate faculty

in the U.S.

94%

of graduates received job offers

MPS-RE graduates

5+

disciplinary perspectives

in real estate

A student speaking during a discussion while sitting around a boardroom table.

Programs and expertise

The Rubacha Department is redefining how real estate education is delivered across Cornell University. Through the Master’s in Real Estate program, interdisciplinary specializations, and minors that can be added to virtually any Cornell University degree, students are empowered to explore real estate from multiple perspectives and prepare for a wide range of careers.

Woman leans in front of building model as others look on.

Graduate real estate study

Comprehensive, multidisciplinary real estate education is the hallmark of the Rubacha Department. The signature Baker MPS in Real Estate combines rigorous academics with internships, treks, and study in New York City. Real estate minors are also available to complement a wide range of Cornell graduate programs.

Group of MPS-RE students engaging in group discussion after a presentation.

Undergraduate real estate study

Undergraduate students can build professional value through Cornell real estate curriculum. Choose a degree with a real estate-related concentration, minor to complement any degree, or opt into our accelerated pathways that allow students to earn a Master’s in Real Estate in just one additional year after their Bachelor’s.

Cornell Real Estate Review cover image.

The Cornell Real Estate Review

The Cornell Real Estate Review was founded in 2002 as a forum for faculty, professionals, and real estate students to focus attention on current issues in the real estate industry. The publication covers many topics from the various real estate disciplines including design, business economics, engineering, finance, law, planning, development, marketing, and property management.

Four students walking on Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island with the New York City skyline in the background.

Reach new heights in NYC

We offer a unique opportunity to start your education in Ithaca, NY, and then transition to New York City for the second year. Students gain direct experience in real estate development, design and venture capital, with direct access to the industry. Combine an Ivy League education with experiential learning in one of the world’s most vibrant real estate markets.

Connected to community

Join a community that’s transforming the built environment through innovation and leadership.

Paul Rubacha introducing himself at an event with MPS-RE students.

Commitment to lifelong opportunity

Established in 2022 through a landmark gift from Paul Rubacha ‘72, MBA ‘73, the department represents a dedication to providing life-changing educational opportunities that empower students to innovate, lead, and transform the real estate industry.

A group of alumni networking during an event.

Active alumni network

Studying real estate at Cornell links you to a lifelong network of alumni and industry professionals who are making an impact. Engage through the CREC, the Baker Program Advisory board, or many other meaningful opportunities to collaborate, mentor and give back to the real estate community.

A group of four people (students and faculty) viewing a piece together at an exhibit.

Engaged student communities

Gain more than academic knowledge by becoming part of a dynamic learning community. Real estate students connect with industry professionals, participate in experiential learning opportunities, attend exclusive events, and collaborate with peers who have a passion for real estate.

Students sitting near the Ezra Cornell statue on Cornell's Ithaca Campus on a fall day.

A unique campus experience

Our campuses offer an inspiring backdrop for your real estate education. Experience the beauty and energy of the Ithaca, NY campus where historic architecture, vibrant campus life, and the scenic Finger Lakes create a picturesque environment to study. Expand your perspective as an NYC pathway student, with access to our spaces in the city in Manhattan and Roosevelt Island.

Shape the built environment

Take the first step towards a fulfilling career in real estate by learning more about our programs.

The Rubacha Department of Real Estate is a cross-college department jointly led by the College of Architecture, Art and Planning and the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business.