If you’re interested in understanding what makes a workplace successful from a human resource standpoint, you may want to consider a masters in organizational psychology.
Online industrial organizational psychology graduate programs can help prepare you for a variety of potential career paths. This is true for both online masters as well as online PhD in Organizational Psychology degree programs. The skills learned in I/O psychology programs can help you appreciate how and why people perform as they do in the workplace.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
If combining an understanding of corporate business theory and psychology sounds intriguing, read on to learn more about industrial-organizational psychology graduate programs!
Online Masters in Organizational Psychology Programs
Organizational psychology is sometimes known as industrial-organizational psychology. Earning this degree can give you the chance to learn how to observe, research, analyze, and make recommendations regarding workplace performance.
This can include the effectiveness of leadership, the engagement of workers, and overall employment policies. I/O psychology programs typically cover topics such as:
- How to resolve conflicts between colleagues
- Effective and ineffective managerial techniques
- How to implement and enforce health and safety behavior
- How to analyze behaviors and decision-making processes in the field
- Personal and cultural motivation
- Consumer behavior
With these skills, many industrial-organizational psychology majors pursue careers analyzing and researching employee behavior. They use this research to create policies and procedures intended to streamline efforts while being fair to all employees.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Some choose to work in human resources, either in managerial or analytical positions. These individuals observe behaviors and implement rules and benefits to help employees work more efficiently. They may also define roles and assign salaries. Others prefer to work in careers strictly in the field of psychology, such as consulting psychologist positions or on-site employee counselors.
Many individuals also use their knowledge of industrial-organizational psychology to help them in labor relations, organizational research, or even as top executives. Industrial-organizational psychologists can understand and reorganize how business is done to improve culture and overall productivity. This understanding makes them a very helpful resource for many different businesses.
Common I-O Psychology Master’s Concentrations
Many schools consider industrial-organizational psychology as a concentration within the psychology major. Others offer further concentrations within the industrial-organizational psychology major.
The following are some common concentrations in the field of industrial-organizational psychology.
- Conflict Resolution: This concentration focuses on conflict intervention between workers, management, or other key players in the workplace.
- Human Resources Management: This track is concerned with the role industrial-organizational psychology plays in HR departments.
- International Business: This concentration focuses on the various cultural and social expectations that can impact the global economy.
- Professional Coaching: If you are hoping to become a leadership, career, or productivity coach, you may want to choose this concentration.
- Consulting Psychology: This concentration prepares students for the challenges and opportunities associated with becoming a consulting psychologist.
In addition, some schools allow students to create their own concentrations to prepare them for their career goals. You may wish to check the course catalog to determine if a school offers classes in your preferred concentration.
Industrial/Organizational Psychology Careers & Salaries
Students who earn their industrial organizational psychology online masters may wish to consider a variety of professional paths.
Many continue in the role of a psychologist within large organizations, lending their knowledge of workplace behavior to large corporations, hospitals, industrial settings, and more. Others use their knowledge in supporting businesses internally. Common fields for industrial-organizational psychology majors include human resources, job analysis, market research, and training.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are some of the careers that can be pursued with a master’s in industrial-organizational psychology:
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Human Resources Managers | $126,230 |
| Training and Development Managers | $120,130 |
| Administrative Services and Facilities Managers | $99,290 |
| Top Executives | $98,980 |
| Management Analysts | $93,000 |
| Operations Research Analysts | $82,360 |
| Psychologists | $81,040 |
| Labor Relations Specialists | $77,010 |
| Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists | $64,120 |
| Market Research Analysts | $63,920 |
Many executive and director roles within businesses can benefit from a comprehensive understanding of organizational psychology.
Industrial and Organizational Psychology Masters Curriculum & Courses
All industrial-organizational psychology graduate programs are unique, and the courses offered may vary. These are some of the courses that are commonly found in I/O psychology programs, though.
- Foundations of Psychology: This course examines different theories and interventions within the field of psychology.
- Industrial-Organizational Psychology Theories and Practices: This course focuses on the importance and relevance of psychology within the workplace.
- Psychology of Organizational Behavior: The behavior exhibited by professionals in the workplace can speak volumes about the psychology and culture of that environment, as this course teaches.
- Implementing Change in Organizations: Change is difficult for all of us, and this course examines how to create and encourage necessary change.
- Ethical Practices in Organizational Psychology: One must adhere to both business and psychological ethics in this field, and this course provides students with practical procedures and guidelines for doing so.
- Group Dynamics: This course helps delineate how groups of employees may behave differently than as individuals.
- Managing Conflicts in Organizations: When conflict occurs in a professional setting, the skills learned in this course may help with intervention.
- Performance Management: This course helps students appreciate how psychology and understanding of behavior can increase the productivity of workers.
- Organizational Theory: This course explores various methods for creating an organization and dividing labor and responsibilities.
- Leadership Dynamics: This class examines what makes a great leader and discusses how to inspire leaders.
You can review your program’s course catalog for specific course details and descriptions.
How to Become an IO Psychologist
There are several steps that are often needed to earn the professional designation of industrial-organizational psychologist, including:
- Graduate with a bachelor’s degree. Some masters programs look for students who majored in psychology, biology, or social science, while others do not.
- Complete an industrial psychology masters program. This can be an important step for those looking to pursue a career in human resources and analytic roles.
- Earn a doctorate degree. Earning a PsyD is often necessary for those seeking to work with clients directly, while a PhD in psychology can be helpful for research professionals.
- Acquire state licenses (as needed). Some states ask anyone practicing as a psychologist to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) to receive a state license.
- Receive certification from the American Board of Organizational and Business Consulting Psychology. For those who wish to become board-certified industrial-organizational psychologists, this process includes a written and oral exam.
You may or may not be obligated to complete all these steps, depending on your professional and personal goals, but each may be achieved over the course of your career.
How to Choose an Online Masters in Industrial Psychology Program
There are many online industrial organizational psychology graduate programs available, which can make choosing the right program for you difficult.
Here are a few things you can keep in mind when selecting an industrial organizational psychology online masters program:
- Curriculum: You can check out course and concentration offerings to determine which program best fits your career goals.
- Cost: Many schools post their cost per credit hour or semester.
- Location/Platform: There are not only many online organizational psychology degree programs but also hybrid programs that may include classroom learning or field experience at a location near you.
- Student Resources: You may wish to investigate whether a school offers tuition assistance, career counseling, or licensing opportunities in addition to the program.
There will likely be pros and cons for each program you consider, so you may wish to determine which of these factors is the most important when researching schools.
Master’s in Organizational Psychology Online Admissions Requirements
Admissions criteria varies from program to program, so it is important to review each school’s application process. Typical criteria for admission into an industrial psychology masters program include:
- GRE and GMAT Scores (only some schools require them)
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume listing work experience
- Statement of intent
Most schools also ask students to complete an online application as well. A one-time fee may be associated with some applications.
Masters in IO Psychology Programs Accreditation
When choosing between online industrial organizational psychology graduate programs, it’s beneficial to consider schools that have regional accreditation.
You can check a school’s accreditation status by visiting the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) website. Schools with regional accreditation have been given the seal of approval from an accrediting organization. To receive this approval, they must meet or exceed standards. These programs are noted for the quality of education provided.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
In many cases, financial aid opportunities can be dependent upon selecting a school that has received regional accreditation. Some professional organizations and license and certification opportunities list graduation from an accredited school as a requirement. Future employers may also ask that applicants receive their degrees from accredited programs.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Students may wish to explore a variety of opportunities to help them offset the cost of earning their masters in organizational psychology online degree.
To determine if you qualify for needs-based federal financial aid, you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, you may wish to check with your prospective schools to investigate scholarship and grant opportunities for new students.
Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement or educational assistance to employees. Community or professional grants may be an option too.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology Professional Organizations
Depending on the career you choose after completing your degree, you may wish to join some professional organizations associated with the field of industrial-organizational psychology.
Professional organizations can provide you with benefits, networking opportunities, continuing education opportunities, and credentials to help you grow within your career. A few examples in the industrial-organizational psychology field include:
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP)
The career path you choose will determine which organizations you may wish to consider joining.
What Is an Industrial Organizational Psychology Masters Degree?
An industrial organizational psychology masters degree is an exciting step for those who are interested in how a business runs from a human capital standpoint. Within the structure of every business, there can be several levels of leadership and employee roles.
Earning a master’s in industrial-organizational psychology can help you learn how to analyze and understand the behaviors, motivation, and challenges from a psychological standpoint. This degree can allow you to pursue a variety of roles in which you can help businesses meet employees’ requests and keep things running smoothly and efficiently.
What Can I Do with a Masters in Industrial Organizational Psychology?
For some students, earning a masters in organizational psychology online degree can lead to working within a human resources role.
Others pursue careers in compensation, organizational analytics, or other jobs that include understanding how to motivate and intervene with employee performance at all levels. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the field of psychology will continue to have average demand in the coming years.
How Much Money Can I Make with an Online Organizational Psychology Masters?
The salary you receive following completion of your industrial organizational psychology online masters depends on many factors. These include your location, experience level, industry, and the field you choose to pursue.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, human resources managers have an annual median salary of $126,230. Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists, another career in the field of human resources and benefits, earn annual median salaries of $64,120.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Those who continue their education to become professional psychologists may earn around $81,040 per year. There may be a difference in pay for those who work as consultants versus permanent staff as well.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master’s in Organizational Psychology?
The length of time it takes to complete industrial-organizational psychology graduate programs varies depending on many factors, including the school’s schedule and your enrollment.
A 36 credit hour fast online psychology degree program with no thesis or practicum can potentially be completed in 1 year as long as you remain enrolled at full-time status during all terms. Some programs will require a thesis project, practicum, or field experience as part of their graduation requirements. If this is the case, your studies may take longer. Additionally, part-time enrollment may also impact your graduation schedule.
What’s the Difference between an Industrial vs. Organizational Psychology Masters Program?
Though I/O psychology programs are often referred to by both terms, they explore different areas within psychology.
Industrial psychology often refers to:
- Hiring, evaluating, and motivating employees
- Research of each job within a business and the individuals who perform those tasks
- Ethical and legal considerations regarding personnel
Organizational psychology focuses on:
- Motivating teams
- Evaluating and coaching those in leadership roles
- Creating a team culture
Many of the principles and theories behind industrial and organizational psychology overlap, which is why many schools continue to teach these skills in conjunction with each other.
What’s the Difference between an MA vs. MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology?
You will likely learn many of the same theories and practices in an MA in Industrial Organizational Psychology and an MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology. There are a few differences between what these programs hope to achieve, though.
An MA in IO Psychology typically focuses on:
- Clinical and behavioral aspects of the workplace
- Workplace culture
- Talent development and fitting employees to their roles
An MS in IO Psychology typically focuses on:
- Research and procedural aspects of the workplace
- Leadership and productivity
- Business performance and innovation
The degree path best for you depends on your personal goals and the career you want to pursue.
Is a Masters in IO Psychology Worth It?
Yes, a masters in IO psychology is worth it for many professionals. Pursuing a masters degree in industrial organizational psychology can give you many potential options for future careers. Depending on your individual goals, you may choose from a variety of concentrations to help you along the way.
Editorial Listing ShortCode:
Whether you’re interested in HR or wish to be an analytical team member, understanding the psychology of individuals, leaders, and teams within the workplace can be advantageous. Additionally, many students continue their education to pursue careers in the field of psychology, which can open additional doors for professional opportunities.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Industrial Organizational Psychology Degree Program
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Adler University offers an online program for a Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The program strives to graduate students who can fill the growing need for professionals who are savvy in both business and human behavior. In addition to the core program requirements, students can select concentrations in Data Science, Training and Development, or Human Resources Management.
Adler University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Austin Peay State University offers a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. The curriculum aims to help students understand the workforce through a psychological lens and equip them for success in a variety of fields and positions. The program utilizes a convenient online learning format, and new students can begin their studies in fall or spring semesters.
Austin Peay State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program at Baker College can help students pursuing advancement within their fields learn essential leadership skills. The program consists of 36 credit hours that are offered in online, on-campus, and hybrid formats. Most students can complete their studies in 2 years of full-time attendance.
Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Bellevue University offers a Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The curriculum covers key concepts in IO psychology, such as social psychology, organizational development, personnel selection, and performance appraisal.
The program is designed to offer ultimate flexibility for busy working professionals seeking further education in their discipline. It has options to adjust the course load and to attend online or on weekends and evenings.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Capella University offers an online program for a Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. The program’s instructors are scholars and practitioners in the field. The curriculum explores critical theory and strategies to improve workplace performance. This 53 credit program also includes an integrative project that provides students with self-guided, hands-on experience.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Colorado State University offers an online program for a Master of Applied Psychology in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The program utilizes studies in leadership and professional development to help equip students with the skills needed to promote productivity, performance, and staff wellbeing. Full-time students tend to finish in just 2 years, while part-time students typically finish their studies in around 4 years.
Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Eastern Kentucky University offers a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. The curriculum is designed to teach students how to assess behavior and implement business strategies in diverse settings and professions. The curriculum consists of 36 credit hours. While it utilizes a mainly online learning format, the program encourages students to complement their coursework with experiences in the field.
Eastern Kentucky University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Golden Gate University offers an online program for a Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. The program is designed to help students begin or advance existing careers in industrial-organizational psychology and related fields. Courses cover fundamentals like organizational development and leadership, psychological research, diversity in organizations, conflict resolution, and change management.
GGU is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Grand Canyon University’s Master of Science in Psychology offers an emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the intersection of behavior and organizational success. The program consists of 36 credit hours. Each class can be completed in an accelerated, online format that is 8 weeks long.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The Master of Science in Organizational Psychology program at Johnson & Wales University is designed to provide ultimate flexibility. It offers a fully online curriculum and the option to culminate studies with a thesis or capstone project. The curriculum covers essential topics like team dynamics, organizational theory, and leadership. On average, the program can be completed in 2 years of full-time attendance.
Johnson & Wales University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Kansas State University offers a Master’s in Psychology with a concentration in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. With an interdisciplinary blend of behavioral science and business strategy, the program aims to prepare students for success in diverse settings. This 38 credit program utilizes a predominantly online learning format, though students are required to attend 2 week, on-campus intensives during the summer.
Kansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Liberty University offers a Master of Arts in Applied Psychology with a concentration in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The curriculum is designed to teach students fundamental skills for leadership and optimization of professionals regardless of industry. Each class is 8 weeks long and may be taken 100% online. Students with qualifying credits may transfer in up to half of their required credit hours from outside institutions.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
To better tailor their education to their professional goals, students may choose to earn a Master of Arts or Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology at Saint Peters University. Both tracks are held 100% online, can typically be completed in 15 months, and emphasize data-driven solutions to organizational issues.
Saint Peter’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
At Southern New Hampshire University, students in the online Master of Science in Psychology program can choose a concentration in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. This sub-field of psychology aims to help organizations thrive by helping them understand human motivations. Students can transfer in up to 12 previously earned, qualifying credits toward the degree’s 36 required credits.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers a Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. It is designed for individuals pursuing personnel-centered work in fields like marketing, human resources, non-profit and private organizations, or consultation. Students can typically complete their studies in 2 years when attending full-time or 4 years when attending part-time.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
Thomas Edison State University offers an online program for a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies with an Industrial-Organizational Psychology specialty. This track is designed for students interested in leadership positions in the business field. The program requires the completion of 36 credits. The curriculum covers business ethics, teamwork, conflict management, and talent acquisition and development.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Touro University Worldwide offers a Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The program boasts faculty members who are both scholars and accomplished practitioners within the field. Students can choose between six start dates each year and may attend their classes fully online. The program can potentially be finished in just 1 year of full-time study.
Touro University Worldwide is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
The Master of Science in Organizational Psychology program at the University of Hartford is designed to give an in-depth education in the psychological field. It does not require a previously completed degree in the discipline or the submission of standardized test scores for admission. The program consists of 36 credits and is fully online.
The University of Hartford is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Maryland offers a Master of Professional Studies in Industrial Organizational Psychology. The curriculum is designed to teach students how to assist institutions and businesses in acquiring, training, and retaining excellent employees.
The program’s classes can be attended using a hybrid format in which courses are completed asynchronously online and in-person meetings are held once a week. This format is designed to provide flexibility but still allow students to gain invaluable hands-on experience in the field.
The University of Maryland is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Students hoping to quickly enter or advance in business may find an excellent next step in the Master of Arts in Organizational and Leadership Psychology program at William James College. This accelerated program can typically be completed in 11 months. The program offers two start dates a year. The curriculum covers concepts like qualitative and quantitative research, leadership strategies, and organizational development.
William James College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Getting Your Master’s in Industrial Organizational Psychology Degree Online
Earning a master’s in industrial organizational psychology can allow you to pursue many potential career paths. Understanding how individuals affect organizations and knowing how to observe behaviors can uniquely prepare you for a variety of roles.
If you’d like to be a part of changing businesses’ futures for the better, you can start today by researching the IO psychology programs that best suit your needs.
