The Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) course curriculum is the educational foundation of the CIPS Network. It distinguishes CIPS designees as individuals who have both hands-on experience in international real estate transactions, as well as successfully completed an intensive seven-day program of study focusing on critical aspects of transnational transactions, including currency and exchange rate issues and cross-cultural relationships, regional market conditions, investment performance, tax issues and more. A more detailed description of the five courses is provided below.

U.S. REALTORS® must complete the two-day "International Essentials of International Real Estate" before joining the CIPS Network. Non-U.S. practitoners are also encouraged to take this course, but it is not currently a requirement. Whether or not a practitioner intends to work toward the CIPS designation, this course is ideal for anyone who may encounter opportunities in their local market to assist in an international transaction, e.g., assisting an immigrant or foreign investor, or helping a US resident purchase property abroad.