UTulsa’s Real Estate Center Enhances Learning Through Industry Engagement

The Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Tulsa is transforming the educational landscape for real estate students through practical experience and community collaboration. Recently, the center introduced a new course titled Real Estate Market Analysis, which equips students with essential tools used by industry professionals. This course emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.

In spring 2025, students assessed market and investment opportunities for local partners, including the Tulsa Market District, Fair Oaks, and CloudHaus. This experiential approach is central to the center’s mission, which aims to bridge the gap between academic theory and industry practice.

Engaging with Local Projects and Industry Leaders

This year, students were given the opportunity to tour various significant projects, highlighting the dynamic nature of real estate in Tulsa. They visited the office-to-multifamily conversions by Price Family Properties in downtown Tulsa, as well as Flintco’s construction of the new Gilcrease Museum. They also explored Ashton Gray’s development of a medical surgical center in South Tulsa. Such tours not only enhance students’ learning experiences, but also help them build connections within the industry.

In February, a group of 20 students traveled to Oklahoma City to attend the ULI Impact Awards. This event provided a platform for students to meet with alumni and potential employers while engaging with the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission. In May, eight students represented the center at the ICSC national conference in Las Vegas, recognized as the largest commercial real estate event in the country. Here, they gained insights into emerging retail trends and networked with top professionals in the field.

Research Initiatives and Community Impact

The center’s commitment to community engagement is further demonstrated through a summer project under the Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge. This initiative was led by business faculty members and real estate experts, including Meagan McCollum, director of the center, and Cayman Seagraves. The focus of this project was to develop early detection methods for housing blight in Tulsa, aiming to inform more responsive and equitable local housing policies.

As the real estate industry continues to evolve, the Center for Real Estate Studies at the University of Tulsa positions its students at the forefront through applied academics and innovative research. By fostering local connections and providing practical experiences, the center ensures that students are well-prepared for their future careers in real estate.