Evolving Education

Education remains the foundation of The CCIM Institute and of a stronger commercial real estate profession. As the industry evolves, so do the needs of the professionals who rely on our education to stay competitive. We continue to listen closely to feedback from candidates and Designees, using their insight to shape how we deliver learning, structure programs, and support long-term professional growth. By modernizing our offerings and refining how we operate, The CCIM Institute is working to ensure that future Designees receive an educational experience that reflects the realities of today’s market while maintaining the rigor and integrity that define The CCIM Designation. 

Expanding the Curriculum 
As commercial real estate continues to evolve, so must the education that supports it. This year, The CCIM Institute is expanding its curriculum with new courses focused on today’s market realities, giving professionals practical insight into modern leasing strategies, development trends, and emerging tools shaping the industry. These additions reflect our continued commitment to providing relevant, forward-looking education that prepares CCIMs for a rapidly changing commercial real estate environment. Here are some new courses coming to The CCIM Institute this year: 

• Structuring Profitable Leases 
  Online | Nov. 12 | 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. CT 
  Instructor: Soozi Jones Walker, CCIM 
  Member Rate: $99 | Non-Member Rate: $149 
  
  This course explores how lease concessions, term structures, and negotiation strategies impact cash flow, valuation, and long-term profitability. Participants will learn how to structure stronger lease agreements while navigating inflation pressures, rising interest rates, and evolving tenant expectations. 
   
• The Lease Buyout: Start with the End in Mind 
  Online | Jul. 15 & Oct. 2 | 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. CT 
  Instructor: Soozi Jones Walker, CCIM 
  Member Rate: $99 | Non-Member Rate: $149 
  
  Focused on today’s increasingly flexible leasing environment, this course examines how to negotiate strategic lease clauses and evaluate buyout scenarios before challenges arise. It equips brokers and tenant representatives with tools to better advise clients in office, retail, and fast-changing commercial sectors. 
   
• Build to Suit Success: Analyzing Profitable Development Strategies 
  Online | Oct. 9 | 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. CT 
  Instructor: Will Curtis, CCIM 
  Member Rate: $99 | Non-Member Rate: $149 
  
  This course examines modern build-to-suit strategies across retail, office, and industrial development. Participants will explore how AI-driven site analysis, adaptive reuse opportunities, and accelerated construction approaches can improve project efficiency and investment performance. 

These courses complement the core Designation curriculum, and additional new offerings are already in development as we continue evolving CCIM education. As the industry changes, The CCIM Institute remains focused on delivering education that evolves alongside it, helping professionals stay informed, adaptable, and prepared for what comes next. 

Bundling is Better 
Another new offering introduced this year, The CCIM Bundled Designation program is a strategic way to reinforce commitment and accelerate progress toward The Pin. 

By enrolling through the bundled option, candidates make a clear decision to complete the entire education component (CI 101 through CI 104, Negotiations, and Foundations), the Portfolio of Qualifying Experience, and the Comprehensive Exam. That upfront commitment creates structure, accountability, and a defined path forward. 

Since launch, we already have a strong group of candidates who have begun their journey through bundling. Their early engagement reflects the value of starting with the end in mind. Candidates who commit to the full track from day one are more likely to maintain pace, stay focused, and move efficiently toward the Comprehensive Exam. 

The CCIM Bundled Designation program is designed to create a clear, structured path toward earning The CCIM Designation by helping candidates commit to the full journey from the start rather than approaching courses individually. By packaging the program as a cohesive professional achievement, the bundle encourages momentum, accountability, and long-term success. 

The CI 101/102 Bundle helps professionals build essential commercial real estate knowledge early, creating a strong foundation for continued progress through the CCIM Designation program. The 101/102 bundle provides an immediate impact on the learners’ professional success by offering tools and knowledge they’ll be able to use right away.  

Early response to The CCIM Bundled Designation program and the CI 101/102 Bundle demonstrates that when candidates have a defined roadmap and foundational coursework aligned from the beginning, they move forward with greater confidence and are better positioned to complete the designation process.  

Learn more about The CCIM Bundled Designation program. View all our course offerings to see what other education opportunities best fit your needs. All of The CCIM Institute's offerings, including the Bundled Designation Program, offer flexible payment options through Affirm, getting you in class faster.