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A new case study on irem.org explores how California State University, Fullerton
(CSUF) partnered with IREM® to deliver live, instructor-led Skill Badges directly to students; an innovative approach that’s already reshaping how future real estate professionals enter the field.
What started as a pilot program in 2023 has quickly become a scalable model for other companies or universities nationwide. The case study highlights how CSUF adapted IREM’s Skill Badge curriculum into single-day instructor-led courses, why student demand surged, and what the results mean for the broader profession.
For employers looking for new ways to attract talent, deepen university partnerships, or strengthen awareness of property management careers, this case study offers practical insights and inspiration.
Highlights include:
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CSUF students have earned 68 Skill Badges so far in topics including leasing, marketing, budgeting, and maintenance
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The program has boosted student confidence in job interviews and knowledge of building operations
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Exposure to property management has sparked interest in the profession, as well as interest in earning the IREM certifications CPM®, ARM®, and ACoM®
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Other universities are now exploring how to replicate the model
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Students like MBA candidate Edwin Muñoz says his Skill Badge experience helped him stand out in interviews with top real estate firms.
What IREM leaders and educators are saying
IREM instructor Shannon Alter, CPM® led the charge to bring the live Skill Badge opportunity to CSUF.
She shares why giving students a tangible qualification before graduation helps them speak confidently with employers and envision themselves in property management careers.
A blueprint for growing the profession
One university partnership can spark interest in management careers, create stronger connections to local chapters, and support the industry’s long-term talent pipeline.
What’s next: CSUF plans to offer the full ACoM track in 2026, including Ethics, with an eye toward inviting neighboring universities to participate.
