As if real university administrators had input to class information and a curriculum of subjects with emphasis pointing toward real estate investing, like general business subjects such as law, marketing, applicable economics, finance and accounting?

I would like suggestions on putting together a financial plan to increase passive income over the next 3-5 years with a heavy emphasis in REI.

They clearly don't put a large emphasis on that aspect, perhaps because it's currently free, but be sure to consider that aspect before you move everything over there and/or consider the long term idea of scaling up.

Furthermore, since we put little emphasis on appreciation - we typically analyse a property with the assumption of zero (or even negative) appreciation - a strong cash return is essential to an acceptable (M)IRR.

Emphasis on scalable.

OklahomaBut if I were you, I would also put an emphasis not only on the cheapest/most affordable housing markets but also those where you can make the most money on real estate: fastest growing area, areas that have a great potential for future development, etc. 

But why does this industry put so much emphasis on networking?

The emphasis you'll put on appreciation will largely depend on your goals.

I also went to college, not that it is mandatory, and I got a degree in business with emphasis in real estate.  

The BELOC is not a product for everyone nor all situations, even though it does have significant benefits if it does fit your needs.I just want to state that I would put more emphasis on those who have actually worked with them rather than speculation of them as a lender.