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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cornell Business News
Third Cornell alum to lead Toll Brothers to speak on campus
Karl Mistry, MPS-RE ’04 will speak with current students on Feb. 26 as part of the Cornell Real Estate Distinguished Speaker Seminar Series.
Cornell student entrepreneurs take first place at Kellogg Real Estate Venture Competition
An interdisciplinary architecture and real estate graduate student team took home Cornell’s first-ever top prize in the competition’s history.
Future real estate leaders shine at Cornell’s international case competition
Move forward on a $98M deal – or not? Students defended their proposals at Cornell’s International Real Estate Case Competition on Nov. 15 in NYC.
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.