Excel Real Estate Financial Modelling Micro-credential
Hybrid (Online + In-person)
A three-term hybrid experience that equips you with practical, industry-ready financial modelling skills tailored to real estate. Through a mix of self-paced online learning and in-person mentorship, you will progress through Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels. Each course level includes two in-person Saturday sessions led by an industry expert. You will earn a digital badge upon completing each level.
Full funding will be provided to the 10 students selected to participate.
The courses are delivered and administered by the Westman Centre for Real Estate Studies and the Urban Land Institute (ULI).
Who should apply
This program is designed for University of Calgary undergraduate and graduate students interested in real estate careers. Whether you are studying business or another discipline, the program is structured to accommodate varying levels of experience and help build foundational through advanced skills in real estate modelling.
Course details
Timeline: September to December 2025
Focus areas:
- Introduction to commercial real estate
- Fundamentals of financial analysis
- Pro forma basics and market valuation
Urban Land Institute (ULI) modules:
- Introduction to the Foundations of Real Estate
- Foundations of Commercial Real Estate
In-person sessions:
- September 20: Kickoff and introductory concepts
- November 22: Applied learning and case scenarios
Location: Viewpoint Circle for Dialogue, Mathison Hall, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Badge awarded: December 19, 2025
Timeline: January to April 2026
Focus areas:
- Development process from site selection to disposition
- Pro forma modelling for feasibility analysis
- Case scenarios and decision-making techniques
Urban Land Institute (ULI) modules:
- Foundations of the Development Process
- Foundations of Pro Forma Modelling
In-person sessions:
- Dates TBD: Kickoff and applied learning
Location: Viewpoint Circle for Dialogue, Mathison Hall, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Badge awarded: April 28, 2026
Timeline: May to June 2026
Focus areas:
- Real estate finance and investment fundamentals
- IRR, leverage, and investor returns
- Waterfall structures and deal structuring
Urban Land Institute (ULI) module:
- Foundations of Real Estate Finance and Investment
In-person sessions:
- Dates TBD: Kickoff and applied learning
Location: Viewpoint Circle for Dialogue, Mathison Hall, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Badge awarded: June 20, 2026
Unlock all three badges
Beginner level
September to December 2025
Intermediate level
January to April 2026
Advanced level
May to June 2026
Instructor:
Nahr Gill, Vice President, Sidhu Investment Group
With a proven track record in corporate lending, commercial mortgage underwriting and real estate finance, Nahr is dedicated to transforming complex financial challenges into strategic opportunities. In previous roles, he was tasked with loan origination for upper-middle market and corporate clients, managing transactions ranging from $5 million to $60 million. His expertise extends to real estate finance, where he excels in structuring and underwriting diverse asset types, ensuring precise and effective financing solutions. His approach combines a deep understanding of credit analysis with a commitment to building strong, lasting client relationships.
His career journey includes pivotal roles with top institutions such as Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Royal Bank of Canada and First National Financial LP, where he honed his skills in credit adjudication, financial modelling and strategic mentorship. Passionate about guiding teams and nurturing talent, he has mentored new hires and contributed to regional underwriting insights. He is driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a desire to leverage his financial expertise to drive impactful results.
Questions? Contact us at westman.centre@haskayne.ucalgary.ca.