First for-credit affordable housing property management program at a California community college to begin in fall.
Merritt Community Capital Corporation, a nonprofit affordable housing investor and lender, and Santa Monica College have launched a new workforce development program aimed at preparing students for careers in affordable housing property management.
The Affordable Housing Property Management Certificate of Achievement, a short-term, for-credit certificate program, will begin in the fall 2026 semester at Santa Monica College. According to the partners, it is the first affordable housing property management certificate program offered through a California community college. Courses that count toward the certificate will also be available during the college’s summer 2026 intersession.
The certificate program was developed through Merritt’s Rising Affordable Housing Management Professionals, or RAMP, initiative, which is part of the organization’s broader Commitment to Community workforce development effort. The initiative is designed to create pathways into affordable housing management careers while addressing workforce shortages in a sector that plays a key role in housing stability.
Santa Monica College first introduced a three-unit Affordable Housing Property Management course during the spring 2026 semester. Following state approval, the college will begin offering the full Certificate of Achievement in fall 2026, with credits earned through the introductory course applying toward the credential.
The program will provide students with practical training in affordable housing operations, a specialized certificate credential and preparation for careers supporting affordable housing communities. Program leaders said the curriculum is intended to equip students with skills needed to manage affordable housing properties while helping residents maintain access to safe and stable housing.
Property managers serve a critical function in affordable housing communities by overseeing operations, supporting residents and helping ensure the long-term sustainability of housing developments. As demand for qualified professionals in the field continues to grow, the RAMP initiative seeks to expand access to career opportunities and leadership development within the industry.
“As the affordable housing industry grows, so does the need for skilled property managers to support residents and preserve communities long-term,” said Ari Beliak, president and chief executive officer of Merritt Community Capital Corporation. “RAMP is a direct response to that demand and reflects our commitment to building a stronger workforce. Merritt is proud to partner with SMC on RAMP’s curriculum and long-term growth.”
Jason Beardsley, vice president of academic affairs at Santa Monica College, said the partnership aligns with the college’s mission to prepare students for careers that address regional workforce needs.
“Santa Monica College’s priorities to train a workforce that is responsive to regional labor market needs — especially in order to advance outcomes both for our students and to help our local communities, particularly those who live in affordable housing — align closely with RAMP and Merritt’s objectives,” Beardsley said. “We look forward to this continued partnership.”
The new certificate joins several workforce-focused programs introduced by Santa Monica College in recent years, including a Homeless Services Work Certificate and an expanded real estate program.
