The Robert And Margaret Folsom Institute For Real Estate

Folsom Institute: A Touchstone for SMU Cox Real Estate Students

The backbone of real estate activity at SMU since 1984, the Folsom Institute bridges the academic and professional worlds. Through its dynamic programming, students gain hands-on experience and make invaluable connections in the Dallas real estate market. The takeaway? A solid foundation for success in this constantly evolving industry.

Mission Summary

The Robert and Margaret Folsom Institute for Real Estate was originally established to provide outreach to the real estate community to be actively involved in the research and debate of critical private and public land use issues. For almost forty years, the Institute has been the backbone of the study of the real estate industry at SMU, supporting the real estate academic programs at both the BBA and MBA levels. The Institute is cultivating tomorrow’s real estate leaders by its dedication to academic excellence, real world applications, leadership coaching, networking opportunities and career placements. Over the last nine years the Folsom Institute for Real Estate experienced consecutive student and industry growth, advancing from 14 RE Club members to 634, and 47 Advisory Board members to 205.


A Board Comprised Of Real Estate Leaders Across The U.S.

Comprised of top industry leaders, the Board is an intentional blend of both SMU alumni and non-SMU members alike. It incorporates nine (9) Corporate partners, 48 Leadership Circle level members, 68 Advisory level members, and 30 Associate level members (real estate professionals under the age of 35). Collectively, the Board links the Institute, students and the University to 92 different real estate companies in 19 cities across the US. Each Board member contributes both financial resources and time to further advance the goals set forth by the Institute.

Learn more about the institute's outreach to the professional community

Affiliated Academic Departments

Department Of Real Estate, Insurance And Business Law

Dallas is one of the nation's hottest real estate markets, and the SMU Cox real estate faculty has deep connections with the industry both locally and nationally. As a student, you'll learn from the experiences of industry leaders and study in a town where real estate is king. You'll have access to industry-specific data sources and software, as well as hands-on learning opportunities through the Folsom Institute for Real Estate—the heart of the department's success.

Visit the Department of Real estate, Insurance and Business Law

 


group of students

"The Folsom Institute stands out as the single most helpful resource during my time on campus."

Wes Gilmer
BBA Finance, ‘18
Investment Advisory Analyst at HFF

Folsom Institute By The Numbers 2022- 2023

1,200

SMU Real Estate Alumni Society Members

176

Board Mentoring Events in Spring 2023

172

Full Time Positions Placed in Fall 2022 & Spring/Summer 2023

274

Internships Secured in Fall 2022 & Spring/Summer 2023

$1MM+

Endowed MBA Scholarships

15

Real Estate Roundtable Firms

$180K

Scholarships/Awards Presented

634

Student Club Members

$15K

ULI & NAIOP Travel Scholarships