To become a property manager, you generally need to first have a degree in a relevant field like real estate or business management. Real estate and business courses, however, don't necessarily cover all the elements that are essential to managing a property so students interested in pursuing this career often supplement their education and experience with a certificate program in property management. Earning a certificate alone doesn't qualify students for property management jobs, so it's important to have a background in real estate or business. Further, most states have regulations regarding who can become property managers and require licensing or certification to work in the field.