For Students and Academics

Programs and Resources for Students and Academics

CREFC offers a range of programs and resources for students and academics interested in commercial real estate finance, allowing them to build the knowledge, skills, and industry connections essential for a career in the industry. Through CREFC’s Next Gen Financiers Program and newly launched University Partnerships Program, students gain access to industry mentorship, educational resources, and networking opportunities. CREFC Education offers many programs, webinars, and trainings to to provide insights into CRE finance trends, market analysis, and professional development. These initiatives have helped countless students bridge the transition from academia to the industry.


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Programs

University Partnership Program 

CREFC's University Partnership Program connects students with the commercial real estate industry through complimentary academic memberships, discounted conference access, networking with industry professionals, and exclusive webinars. Students gain access to career support, including resume critiques, industry news, research, and guidance from a dedicated CREFC concierge. The program offers hands-on learning and connects universities with industry experts to enhance student preparation for CRE finance careers. Learn more.

Next Gen Program 

The core goal of CREFC’s Next-Gen Program is to provide select students with a keen interest in commercial real estate finance with educational programming, mentorship opportunities, and relationship building between with our vast network of industry professionals. It provides participants with exceptional educational programming taught by senior members of the industry. Learn more. 

Mentor Program

CREFC’s annual mentorship program, created in 2018, provides an opportunity for young leaders and seasoned professionals in the commercial real estate finance industry to connect, grow and create a lasting relationship by sharing their industry knowledge, experiences and professional guidance in a confidential and informal atmosphere. Learn more.

The Real Estate Debt Case Competition

The Real Estate Debt Case Competition offers students interested in commercial real estate debt an educational experience and networking with senior CRE professionals from CREFC. Teams analyze a real-world CRE lending case study, preparing their presentation over a week. During the competition, teams present their analysis to a panel of senior CRE executives, who judge based on analysis, conclusions, and presentation skills.

Resources

Education Offerings

CREFC Education provides access to webinars, live events, and on-demand courses covering foundational and advanced commercial real estate finance topics. Offerings include the introductory CRE 100 series, 101-level CMBS courses, and 201 topics like CMBS bonds and hedging, tailored to expand industry knowledge for various skill levels. View the CREFC Education Catalog below or learn more here.

Career Center 

The CREFC Career Center connects talent with commercial real estate finance opportunities, featuring job listings, company profiles, and career advice. It provides resources for job seekers to improve resumes, interview skills, and job search strategies, while employers can post positions to reach qualified candidates. Learn more.

Resource Center

Glossary of Terms

The CREFC Glossary of Terms provides a comprehensive, searchable database of commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) and commercial real estate finance terms. It includes detailed definitions across various topics, such as loan structures, interest rates, and servicing fees, useful for industry professionals, students, and academics. Learn more.