MBA Recognizes 23 Graduates in Inaugural 2023 Class of Mortgage Banking Bound Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 13, 2023) – MBA Education, the award-winning education division of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), has recognized 23 graduates in the inaugural year of Mortgage Banking Bound, a certificate program for college students interested in pursuing a career in the residential real estate finance industry.

Launched earlier this year by MBA, Lennar Mortgage, and Barry University, Mortgage Banking Bound is a one-semester, executive certificate program delivered via a mix of in-person and virtual sessions. In-person sessions are held at Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida. The content is derived from MBA’s School of Mortgage Banking I, School of Loan Origination, and portions of School of Mortgage Banking II. Students are also required to complete pre-course work.

“Congratulations to the inaugural class of Mortgage Banking Bound for their incredible accomplishment. The lessons learned, and skills acquired through the program, will be the first step towards a successful and fulfilling career in real estate finance,” said Laura Escobar, 2023 MBA Chair-Elect and President of Lennar Mortgage. "I personally thank each of our instructors and sponsors for their commitment in supporting the program and investing in the next generation of leaders in our industry. Increased support from MBA member companies will allow us to teach more students at Barry University, with an eye on expanding this impactful program at more colleges or universities in the coming years.” 

Mortgage Banking Bound students participate in 100 hours of learning in a semester-long course comprised of lectures, case studies, and practical applications of concepts. Courses are taught by industry professionals, covering all aspects of the loan lifecycle and ecosystem, and prepare students for a path to work for any real estate finance lending institution in the country.

Graduates are given the opportunity to interview for entry-level positions and internships with local companies, and are provided with a free MBA Student Membership, which includes discounts on MBA educational offerings, access to the MBA Job Board and to a network of over 2,200 members companies within the mortgage banking industry.

Lennar Mortgage is the leading sponsor of Mortgage Banking Bound. MBA has also received donations from Enact Mortgage Insurance, Essent Guaranty, Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation (MGIC), National MI, Radian Group Inc, Taylor Morrison, and Arch Mortgage. MBA has established a scholarship fund to help support students enrolling in 2024 and is looking to expand the program to another college or university.