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  • Best Online Ph.D. In Organizational Psychology Programs

Best Online Ph.D. In Organizational Psychology Programs Of 2024

Mikeie Reiland, MFA

Updated: Mar 26, 2024, 4:14pm

Industrial-organizational (I/O) psychology applies psychological principles to human problems in business and the workplace. Industrial-organizational psychologists help workers perform their best while also prioritizing their well-being.

Organizational psychology looks particularly at human behavior as part of a company or an organization. Organizational psychologists examine the roles of teamwork, leadership and drive within a company’s workforce.

A Ph.D. is the terminal degree in organizational psychology, and psychologists who want to become board-certified through the American Board of Organizational and Business Consulting Psychology must earn a doctoral degree.

We’ve ranked four of the most reputable U.S. colleges offering online Ph.D.s in organizational psychology. Read on to learn about each of them.

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Our Methodology

We ranked four accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online Ph.D. programs in organizational psychology in the U.S. using 14 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

  • Student-to-faculty ratio
  • Socioeconomic diversity
  • Availability of online coursework
  • Total number of graduate assistants
  • Portion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

  • Fully accredited
  • Programmatic accreditation status
  • Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

  • In-state graduate student tuition and fees
  • Alternative tuition plans offered
  • Median federal student loan debt
  • Student loan default rate

We listed all four schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Ph.D. Programs in Organizational Psychology

Should you enroll in an online ph.d. in organizational psychology program, accreditation for online ph.d. programs in industrial organizational psychology, how to find the right online ph.d. in organizational psychology for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in organizational psychology, liberty university, the chicago school at los angeles, keiser university-ft lauderdale, adler university.

Liberty University

Program Tuition Rate

$595/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University enrolls more than 135,000 students, 97% of whom take at least some distance learning courses. The university’s online Ph.D. program in industrial-organizational psychology requires 60 credits, does not include in-person requirements and features multiple start dates throughout the year.

Program courses last for eight weeks each and cover the teaching of psychology and organizational behavior and development. Military students receive a significant tuition discount.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
  • School Type: Private
  • Application Fee: $50
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Teaching of psychology; organizational behavior and development
  • Concentrations Available: N/A
  • In-Person Requirements: No

The Chicago School at Los Angeles

$1,703/credit

Based out of Chicago with additional campuses in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and online, the Chicago School offers an online Ph.D. in business psychology with an industrial and organizational track. Bachelor’s degree holders in the program must complete 97 credits to graduate, while master’s degree holders must complete 61 credits.

The program includes an in-person residency requirement and an opportunity to complete an applied research project. The program takes three years to complete for master’s degree holders and five years to complete for students with bachelor’s degrees.

  • Degree Credit Requirements: 61 credits (post-master’s) or 97 credits (post-bachelor’s)
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Statistics and lab; social psychology/behavioral economics
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an in-person residency

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

$15,856/semeste

Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Keiser University features an online Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology that usually takes three to four years to complete. Classes last eight weeks, and Keiser delivers most online coursework asynchronously. Notable courses in the program’s 60-credit curriculum include personnel psychology and organizational psychology.

Distance learners must visit campus to complete two on-campus residencies over the course of their degree. Students can enter the program with a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree.

  • Application Fee: $55
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Personnel psychology, organizational psychology
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus residencies

Adler University

$924/credit

Based in Chicago with a satellite campus in Vancouver, British Columbia, Adler University also delivers several online programs, including a Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology. Post-bachelor’s students must complete 66 credits to graduate, which takes around three years.

One of the program’s main draws is its social justice practicum, during which online students dedicate eight to 10 hours per week for 200 total hours to a specific community site. Learners may complete the practicum in person or online.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
  • Application Fee: Free
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 66 credits
  • Example Major-Specific Courses: Statistics, social justice practicum

Pursuing any online degree, especially one as rigorous as a Ph.D., is a large undertaking, and distance learning may not suit all students. To determine if online college is for you, ask yourself a few key questions:

  • What are your other commitments? Flexibility is arguably the main draw of online learning. If you’re juggling large responsibilities outside of school, you may want to prioritize asynchronous online programs, which do not have scheduled class times and offer maximum scheduling flexibility.
  • What’s your budget? Distance learners often avoid certain costs associated with on-campus learning, including housing and transportation. Moreover, some public universities allow students who enroll only in online coursework to pay in-state or otherwise discounted tuition rates.
  • How do you learn best? While online learning is generally more flexible and affordable than on-campus learning, it isn’t the right fit for everyone. Distance learning requires a great deal of discipline, organization and time management. If you need additional structure, perhaps in the form of a classroom or an in-person cohort, on-campus learning might provide a better fit.

There are two key types of college accreditation : institutional and programmatic.

Institutional accreditation applies to the whole school. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee the agencies that handle institutional accreditation. These agencies vet schools for the quality of their finances, faculty, programs and student services, among other categories.

You should enroll only at institutionally accredited schools. Otherwise, you will be ineligible for federal student aid, and employers and credentialing bodies may not recognize your degree as valid. To check a school’s accreditation status, you can visit its website or check the directory on CHEA’s website .

Programmatic accreditation provides a similar vetting service for specific degree programs and departments. In psychology, keep an eye out for accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA). To become a board-certified organizational psychologist in the U.S., you’ll need an APA-accredited doctorate.

Keep the following in mind as you survey your options for online organizational psychology doctoral programs.

Consider Your Future Goals

A Ph.D. in organizational psychology can lead to lucrative careers with high levels of responsibility in academia, research, management consulting, policy and human resources, among other fields. That said, every program is different, and it’s important to choose the option that best aligns with your goals and circumstances.

For example, consider each prospective program’s dissertation and field experience requirements. If you’re looking to pursue an academic career after earning your doctorate, you should complete a dissertation, which can give you research experience and help you get published. Alternatively, field experience can also prepare you for work in your area of interest, whether that’s consulting, policy or human resources.

If you want to become a board-certified industrial-organizational psychologist, you can earn that credential through the American Board of Organizational and Business Consulting Psychology after you finish your doctoral program.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Per-credit tuition rates for the qualifying programs in our guide range from $595 to $1,703. Credit requirements vary from around 60 (for master’s degree holders) to 90 (for bachelor’s graduates). As such, total tuition costs for the programs in our guide range from around $36,000 to $150,000.

To lower the cost of your education, you should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). The FAFSA is your portal to federal student aid opportunities like loans, grants and scholarships. You can also seek aid through third parties like nonprofits, private organizations, private lenders and your future university.

On-campus Ph.D. programs sometimes provide stipends to graduate students who work as teaching assistants for undergraduate courses or assist professors with research. However, these opportunities aren’t always available to distance learners.

Is a Ph.D. in organizational psychology worth it?

It depends on your goals and circumstances. If you want to become board-certified as an organizational psychologist or pursue high-level roles in consulting or academia, a Ph.D. in the field is often worth it.

Is it possible to get a Ph.D. in psychology online?

Yes. We’ve ranked four qualifying schools that offer online Ph.D. programs in organizational psychology.

How long does a Ph.D. in industrial organizational psychology take?

Master’s degree holders can often finish a Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology in three years, while bachelor’s degree holders may need up to five years to finish. Dissertation requirements can also affect completion times.

Mikeie Reiland, MFA

Mikeie Reiland is a writer who has written features for Oxford American, Bitter Southerner, Gravy, and SB Nation, among other publications. He received a James Beard nomination for a feature he wrote in 2023.

Organizational Psychology Degrees

Top 10 PhD in industrial organizational psychology Programs

phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

Welcome to our ranking of the Top 10 PhD programs in industrial organizational psychology .

The field of industrial and organizational psychology takes an in-depth look at human behavior in the workplace. I/O psychologists are an asset to any organization in today’s competitive business environment. Doctoral level psychologists have advanced training in areas like human performance and human factors and job analysis. They are able to address issues in areas like training and development, recruitment, and workplace motivation. Industrial/organizational psychology is a great fit for psychologists who want to help teams succeed and organizations achieve their business goals.

Featured Schools

Methodology.

We created this ranking of the top industrial organizational psychology PhD programs to showcase some of the best IO psych PhD programs in the country. We used information from the National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator to identify accredited colleges offering a doctoral degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. We narrowed our focus to programs offering a well rounded curriculum based on the scientist-practitioner approach which prepares graduates for a variety of different career settings. All programs require a dissertation and research experience which provide students with the necessary training and skill development to be successful in the field. We then applied our ranking criteria using the average graduate tuition rate (realizing it may differ for PhD programs) and student to faculty ratio.

Ranking: Top 10 IO Psychology PhD programs

Average Graduate Tuition

  • Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
  • $10,000 to $15,000 per year= 4 Points
  • $15,001 to $20,000 per year= 3 Points
  • $20,001 to $25,000 per year= 2 Points
  • Greater than $25,001 per year= 1 Point

Student to Faculty Ratio

  • 12:1 or less= 5 Points
  • 13:1 to 15:1= 3 Points
  • Greater than 15:1= 1 Point

10. DePaul University – Chicago, Illinois

Industrial organizational psychology ma/phd.

depaul-university Industrial-Organizational Psychology MA/PhD

More Information

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $17,951/year Points: 4 The College of Science and Health at DePaul University features an industrial organizational psychology MA/PhD program. Students can tailor the program to meet their professional goals by choosing a secondary specialization in:

  • communication
  • women’s and gender studies

Students are engaged in forward-thinking research that helps prepare them for successful careers. 100% of I/O psychology graduates from DePaul were employed or pursuing other goals within six months of graduation.

9. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, Illinois

Phd in industrial-organizational psychology.

U of I PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $14,635/year in-state and $27,674/year out-of-state Points: 5 The Department of Psychology at the University of Illinois offers a top doctorate in organizational psychology that prepares students for research and to apply theory to organizations around the world. Students will participate in research tackling tough challenges like:

  • hiring/personnel selection
  • race gaps in HR
  • effects of job loss

The curriculum covers the breadth of I/O psychology and general psychology through coursework with faculty and the depth of the field with an individualized program of study created by the student and their advisor. Program alumni include prominent I/O psychologists and journal editors.

8. CUNY Bernard M Baruch College – New York, New York

Doctoral program in industrial organizational psychology.

Baruch College Doctoral Program in Industrial Organizational Psychology

Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $11,090/year in-state and $20,520/year out-of-state Points: 5 The City University of New York Baruch College is a regionally accredited institution offering a top doctoral program in industrial organizational psychology. The program supports a collaborative culture of faculty and student support in research excellence. Diversity is a core value, emphasized by student and faculty research in areas like demographic diversity and LGBTQ issues in the workplace. The program attracts some of the top talents in the field and faculty are widely recognized for their contributions to I/O psychology. Graduates are ready for a wide variety of career paths in academic and consulting settings.

7. Clemson University – Clemson, South Carolina

Industrial organizational psychology phd.

Clemson University PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $10,600/year in-state and $22,050/year out-of-state Points: 5 The top organizational psychology doctorate program from Clemson University follows the scientist-practitioner model and follows the doctoral program guidelines set by the SIOP. Students gain experience in quantitative research techniques and design and in solving complex organizational issues. Students complete dissertation research and internships to gain professional experience. The program is designed to be completed in four or five years.

6. Columbia University in the City of New York – New York, New York

Doctor of philosophy in social-organizational psychology.

Columbia University Doctor of Philosophy in Social-Organizational Psychology

Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $50,496/year Points: 6 The Teachers College at Columbia University offers a top PhD in social-organizational psychology for students interested in research, practice, or scholarship. The program is designed for full-time graduate students. A unique aspect of the program is the theoretical, research, and applied focus that allows students to study organizations from a variety of perspectives. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods are used to tackle complex issues. Most students can complete their degree in six or seven years of post-baccalaureate study.

5. University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia

The industrial organizational psychology doctoral program.

University of Georgia The Industrial-Organizational Psychology Doctoral Program

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $8,878/year in-state and $25,186/year out-of-state Points: 6 The top industrial organizational doctorate degree at the University of Georgia is a highly customizable program. Students can choose to focus exclusively in the area of I/O psychology or complete a blended program that includes measurement and individual differences. Students will participate in research and select courses that align with their career goals. Professional experience opportunities are available through internships approved by the faculty. Graduates are ready to pursue exciting I/O psychology careers in settings like academia and government.

4. University of Houston – Houston, Texas

Phd industrial organizational psychology.

University of Houston PhD in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology

Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $8,713/year in-state and $17,857/year out-of-state Points: 6 The University of Houston offers the oldest and largest I/O psychology graduate program in the United States. Students produce high-quality research featured in peer-reviewed journals and at conferences. Courses include:

  • Multilevel Modeling
  • Personnel Psychology
  • Statistics for Psychology

The program structure allows students to work with their advisors as well as other program faculty, including business school faculty and faculty at other universities. Students are trained to be academic faculty members and real-world practitioners through the scientists-practitioner model. Most students can complete their degree in four years.

3. Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas

Doctor of philosophy (phd) in industrial and organizational psychology.

Texas A&M Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Industrial Organizational Psychology

Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $6,885/year in-state and $19,592/year out-of-state Points: 6 The industrial organizational psychology doctoral program at Texas A&M University prepares students to be scientists and practitioners. The program emphasizes academic research-based training, but graduates are also prepared to work in government agencies, consulting firms, and research organizations. Faculty are renown scholars in areas like performance appraisal, group processes, and workplace diversity. Students can complete the program in about five years of post-baccalaureate study.

2. Louisiana Tech University – Ruston, Louisiana

Industrial organizational psychology (phd).

Louisiana Tech University Industrial-Organizational Psychology (PhD)

Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $5,416/year in-state and $10,147/year out-of-state Points: 6 The College of Education at Louisiana Tech University features a top industrial organizational psychology PhD program rich with hands-on learning opportunities. Courses cover areas like:

  • Job Analysis and Performance Appraisal
  • Psychometrics
  • Organizational Consulting

Students complete 84 semester hours of coursework, a dissertation, practicum training, and must pass a doctoral comprehensive examination. Students work on research and applied projects through the Applied Research for Organizational Solutions group. Most students take between three and four years of full-time post-baccalaureate study to complete the program.

1. Saint Louis University – Saint Louis, Missouri

Industrial and organizational psychology phd.

SLU Industrial Organizational Psychology, Ph.D.

Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $21,960/year Points: 7 Our top choice for a PhD in industrial organizational psychology is offered by Saint Louis University. Saint Louis University features the oldest psychology department at a Jesuit university, offering courses in psychology for over 100 years. This top I/O psychology PhD program covers areas like:

  • Occupational health
  • Systems and process consultation

Students are involved in supervised research and professional experience while gain competence in research and organizational consultation. Graduates are employed at top organizations like Nike, the US Secret Service, and Pfizer.

Should I Obtain My Masters or PhD in Organizational Psychology?

As a student begins to plan for their ultimate careers in the field of IO psychology, the decision should be made as to how much education is desired, a master’s degree or a doctorate. Typically speaking, in a master’s program, the student is training to be an IO professional.  An IO professional will consider how to apply the principles of IO psychology to solve specific organizational problems. Simply speaking, IO professionals are trained to help organizations; IO professionals practice IO psychology.

In a PhD organizational psychology program, students are training to become an IO scholar.  An IO scholar will do the same tasks as the IO professional, but will also use those experiences to advance our general understanding of IO through research. For students that would like to teach at a collegiate level, the only suitable degree is a PhD. Ultimately, IO scholars are trained to advance organizational science, helping organizations along the way; IO scholars conduct research.

In practice, this means that an I/O psychology PhD will generally be making the big decisions, while the IOs with Master’s degree will aid with implementation or conduct background research.

A student should decide if he or she wants to pursue a terminal master’s or continue on to a PhD as early as is possible in his or her educational career.  This will help the student tailor his or her coursework through the undergraduate and graduate years specifically to the degree and future job prospects that he or she desires.

Job Descriptions for I/O Psychologists

According to a 2014 report by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions in industrial and organizational psychology are expected to increase by 53.4% from 2012 to 2022, placing trained I/O professionals in high demand. I/O psychology is still fairly uncommon in the grand scheme of psychologists, but the number of practitioners continues to rise exponentially.

I/O practitioners typically find employment in a number of areas including:

  • public and private industries
  • educational institutions
  • government agencies

Because the skills they possess are so varied, it is sometimes difficult to enumerate the jobs that an IO psychologist could successfully fill.  One obvious area where IO psychologists thrive is in human resources. Typically, these types of jobs include working directly with employees in such areas as:

  • employee training and development
  • employee relations
  • employee compensation and benefit negotiations

Many times, the human resource skills brought to the table by IO psychologists make for solid general managers, as well.  Another area where IO psychologists thrive is in government.  Those with an advanced degree in social (industrial organizational) psychology are especially adept in labor law, affirmative action cases and policy, and union relations. Finally, many industrial organizational psychologists, especially at the PhD level, find their home in the area of research.  Studying such areas of business such as personnel selection, work motivation, talent development, and organizational change can make monumental improvements in the working lives of millions of people.

Additional job titles held by Industrial Organizational professionals are: HR Practice Leader * Behavioral Analyst * Behavioral Scientist * Talent Management Specialist * HR Organizational Development Specialist * Executive Coach * Career Coach * Leadership Coach * Employment Testing Professional * Testing Specialist * Tests and Measurement Specialist * Assessment and Selection Specialist * Employment Law Expert * Research Analyst * Organizational Development * Organization Effectiveness * Organizational Capability * Talent Management * Management Development * Workforce Insights * Human Resources * Human Resources Research * Employee Relations * Training and Development * Professional Development * Leadership Development * Selection Systems * Evaluation & Assessment * Testing Programs * Leadership Research * Assessment * Applied Behavioral Research * Optimization * Managing * Leadership * Learning & Performance * Career Planning

Related Resources:

  • 30 Great Scholarships, Grants & Awards for Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Top 10 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Top 9 Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology Online
  • Top 10 Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology Online
  • 10 Most Affordable Top-Ranked Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
  • Top 10 Bachelor’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology 
  • Top 25 Campus Based Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s Degree Programs
  • Top 15 Industrial/Organizational Certificate Programs
  • Neoacademic.com
  • Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology
  • U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics
  • College Websites
  • Statements on Current Events
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Industrial-Organizational

phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

Welcome to the home of Penn State Industrial/ Organizational Psychology. The I/O PhD program has a  long history and strong culture  of success as well as wonderful group of  faculty  and  graduate students  that continue that culture of success. 

Please use “Navigate to” in the top right-hand corner to learn more about our program.

phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

Contact the I/O Area

  • Graduate Office, Graduate Records
  • [email protected]
  • 814-863-1721
  • 133A Moore Building, Penn State University, University Park, PA 16802

Ph.D. in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Advance Business with Science

phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Take Your Expertise to New Levels with an Online Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Your knowledge of human behavior could benefit a variety of industries as you help companies solve workplace problems and improve productivity. Liberty University’s Ph.D. in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology can help you gain the research and professional skills you need to make a difference.

Our specialization in industrial/organizational psychology (I/O psychology) provides training in the study of human behavior in organizations and the workplace. You can learn how to derive principles of individual, group, and organizational behavior and apply that knowledge as you develop solutions for challenges in the workplace.

As a nonprofit, Christian university, our goal is to see you thrive both personally and professionally throughout your studies. There is currently no other program that integrates strong biblical principles into this kind of research training. Our Ph.D. in I/O psychology degree is designed to foster critical thinking about topics relevant to people today, especially those in the workforce.

Military Friendly School

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

  • What Sets Us Apart?
  • Private Nonprofit University
  • 600+ Online Degrees
  • No Standardized Testing for Admission
  • Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
  • Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Ph.D. in Psychology?

At Liberty, you can earn your Ph.D. in Psychology online with courses that last only 8 weeks and have various start times throughout the year. Let us help you pursue your educational, professional, and personal goals while providing flexibility for you to be present with your family, church, and community.

Additionally, choosing to study with Liberty allows you to evaluate research while applying biblical truths about human behavior. With your concentration in industrial/organizational psychology, you can gain new perspectives of behavior within the workforce. This can increase your marketability by allowing you to improve the environments you work in. If your goal is to use these skills as a professor, you can become equipped to enact positive change by revealing these truths to your students.

What Will You Study in Our Doctorate in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology?

Pursuing an online Ph.D. program in psychology can help you broaden your experience and strengthen your academic knowledge while exponentially advancing your critical thinking, writing, and research skills. At Liberty, you are free to integrate biblical principles into your studies and understanding of human behavior.

In our industrial/organizational psychology concentration, you will study research and theories related to organizational processes, teamwork, workplace relationships, and methods for increasing workplace satisfaction and productivity. Your coursework will focus on designing and implementing projects that can help workplaces struggling with personnel, productivity, and process issues.

As a psychology Ph.D. student, our faculty are ready to partner with you and mentor you throughout our Ph.D. program. Our goal is to help you become a thought leader in the area of research you are most passionate about. Advance your mastery in the field of psychology so you can go into the world with insights and truth that can help countless people.

Potential Career Opportunities

Graduates of our program can pursue work in a variety of educational, research, or corporate settings. By completing this doctoral degree, you can be more qualified to obtain jobs that meaningfully impact individual and societal change through research, writing, project management, or leading programs.

Here are some of the positions that may be available to you:

  • Independent consultant
  • Organizational mentor/consultant
  • Researcher/writer
  • University professor

Featured Courses

  • PSYC 640 — Organizational Behavior and Development
  • PSYC 710 — Psychological Research and Biblical Worldview
  • PSYC 716 — Theories and Research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
  • PSYC 775 — Teaching of Psychology

Degree Information

  • This program falls under the School of Behavioral Sciences .
  • View the Graduate Behavioral Sciences Course Guides (login required) .

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

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Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

  • Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

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Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

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Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Doctorate in Psychology Admission Requirements

Admission requirements.

  • A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
  • Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
  • Contact information  for 2 recommenders is required (approved recommenders are the student’s former college professors or supervisors).
  • Statement of Purpose  is required (1,000-1,500 words, double spaced).
  • Departmental approval is required.
  • Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

  • Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
  • Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
  • Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
  • Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

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Lynchburg, VA 24515

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Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

  • Active Duty
  • Reserve/National Guard
  • Veterans/Retirees
  • Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

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  • Seattle Pacific University
  • Graduate Programs​

Doctorate (PhD) — Industrial-Organizational Psychology

4 years to complete

$915/per credit

168 credits

STEM approved

  • Schedule informational appointment

Upcoming deadline: Dec. 15, 2021

Next start: Sept. 2022

Next start date: 9/11/2024

Change the world of work as an Industrial-Organizational psychologist

Why pursue a Industrial-Organizational Psychology doctoral degree? To gain the theoretical foundation to meet the real-world challenges you see all around you. In this STEM-approved I-O psychology doctoral program, you’ll benefit from field-practicum experiences while focusing on the science and rigor associated with this field. Prepare to be trained to design and deliver interventions, conduct research — and change the world of work.

See how a PhD in Industrial-Organization from Seattle Pacific can enable you to meet your professional goals.

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PhD program distinctives

The doctoral program in Industrial-Organizational Psychology is designed with a focus on the science and rigor associated with quality degrees in this field along with an equal emphasis on the practice of industrial-organizational psychology. This doctoral program will prepare you to:

  • Develop a strong theoretical foundation for meeting real-world challenges through program curriculum.
  • Design and develop interventions, conduct research, and develop leaders through field-practicum experiences.
  • Achieve  your individual vocational and professional goals when you tailor the program's wide variety of electives. 

The curricula for these programs have been structured according to the guidelines for graduate training in industrial-organizational psychology published by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP), a division of the American Psychological Association .

Doctoral program

The doctoral program is a 168-unit program (134 credits of required coursework and 34 credits of electives) and is designed to be taken over four years/16 quarters, with an integrated research and dissertation sequence. As a full-time doctoral student, you will take 8–14 credits each quarter.

Outside of the required coursework, you may complete electives from a variety of disciplines (Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Psychology, Business Administration, Theology, and Education).

The doctoral program begins in Autumn Quarter. You will complete a master’s level final project and portfolio in the second year and be awarded a master’s degree upon completion of the equivalent MA requirements.

By the summer of year three, as a doctoral student, you are working full time on your dissertation. The fourth year in the program includes full-time dissertation work and professional placement credits. View this sample four-year course sequence for the program.

The SPU I-O program is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion; and equipping our students to become practitioners and researchers who will make a difference in organizations where they serve. Consequently, the SPU I-O faculty and staff stand with and affirm our LGBTQIA+ students, alumni, staff, and faculty, who are central and critical to our campus community. The SPU I-O Program is a place where we value every student for who they are and how they can use their gifts to live with compassion in the world.

Four pillars

The curriculum for the Industrial-Organizational Psychology PhD program satisfies the suggested areas of competence for graduates in industrial-organizational psychology, ensuring that you are fulfilling not only the expectations for graduate-level education, but also fulfill the expectations of experts working in the field.

The four pillars of the Industrial-Organizational Psychology program:

  • You gain the knowledge and skills to make evidence-based decisions in organizations, and learn to conduct, evaluate, and measure research. Knowledge of core theoretical models and their application is the foundation for our training.
  • You learn to demonstrate awareness of self and others, as well as discernment, responsibility, and self-regulation. You’ll take responsibility for your own contributions, both good and bad. And you won’t just focus on your strengths, but also learn to offer and receive grace.
  • You learn to apply research, self-knowledge, and character to real-time work with organizations. You gain the foundation to learn and lead at the next level, applying evidence-based theory and strategies to the change efforts of organizations you’ll serve.
  • You learn to work with and present to real-world clients, even as you come to understand how your own strengths and weaknesses impact your ability to bring about individual, team, and organizational transformation.

Joey Collins

Joey​ Collins

Assistant Professor of Industrial-Organizational Psychology PsyD, Biola University

Paul Yost

Paul​ R. Yost

Chair and Associate Professor of Industrial-Organizational Psychology; Director of IOP Applied Learning and Development PhD, University of Maryland

Helen Chung

Helen Chung

Assistant Professor of Industrial-Organizational Psychology PhD, Seattle Pacific University

Jorge Lumbreras, assistant professor of industrial-organizational psychology

Jorge Lumbreras

Assistant Professor of Industrial-Organizational Psychology; Director of IOP Research PhD, University of Georgia

Adjunct Faculty

phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

Deanna Haney-Loehlein

Industrial-Organizational Psychology; Adjunct Faculty PhD, Seattle Pacific University

Jessica Loving

Jessica Loving

Industrial-Organizational Psychology; Adjunct Faculty MA, Seattle Pacific University

Emily Pelosi | Photo by Dan Sheehan

Emily Pelosi

Kristen (Voetmann) Thornton

Kristen (Voetmann) Thornton

Norman Tonina

Norman Tonina

Industrial-Organizational Psychology; Adjunct Faculty MA, Antioch University Seattle

2023–24 tuition and fees

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application fee; one-time matriculation fee

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168 credits (PhD)

to complete

In addition to direct instructional costs, Seattle Pacific University’s Industrial-Organizational Psychology tuition covers academic and student support services. Other benefits include use of athletic facilities (e.g., gym, locker room, and fitness rooms), and the SPU Library.

Scholarships and financial aid

Scholarship and other financial aid is available to newly admitted and continuing students in the School of Psychology, Family, and Community. For more information, visit Graduate Students Resources in Student Financial Services.

Resources available to graduate students to offset costs may include:

  • Student loans. Includes amounts that exceed tuition and provide for living expenses.
  • Graduate research fellowships. Department and grant-funded research and administrative assistant positions are offered to a limited number of graduate students each year. Selection is based on established criteria within each graduate department.
  • Graduate teaching assistantships. Department-funded teaching assistantships are offered to a limited number of graduate students each year. Selection is based on established criteria and course need within each graduate department.
  • Department scholarship and awards. Selection is based on established criteria within each department. May not be distributed every year.

Student employment

For part-time student employment opportunities on or off campus, explore these options:

  • Student Employment website
  • Falcon Connect

Application

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Applying to the Industrial-Organizational Psychology Programs

To be considered for admission into the Industrial-Organizational Psychology (PhD) program, you must  apply online . Find the help you need with the admissions process of the program of your choice through  Graduate Admissions . 

Admissions checklist requirements:

  • Industrial-Organizational Psychology (PhD) program

If you are an international student, also refer to  International Graduate Students information  about additional admission requirements. 

Industrial-Organizational Psychology students participate in a group discussion

Doctoral degree admission requirements

For admission to this doctoral program, the following are required:

  • Online application and $75 processing fee
  • A bachelor’s degree, minimum
  • From a regionally accredited institution, with a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 in all undergraduate work.
  • A minimum of one statistics course in business or social science. Three courses in psychology must be completed (at a regionally accredited institution) prior to admission to the program. One course in business, political science, or sociology (completed at a regionally accredited institution) may be substituted for one of the three required psychology courses.
  • We consider applications holistically, weighing academic preparedness, interpersonal skills, and research skills. If submitted, GRE scores will be considered as an additional item to all other application materials.
  • The recommended overall GRE score is a 300 (or 1100 on the older version of the test) on the verbal and quantitative sections.
  • Demonstrating your writing and grammatical skills.
  • Addressing career objectives, personal qualifications, experience, and other insights as deemed appropriate by you.
  • The rationale for seeking the degree and choosing to attend SPU
  • (1) One from a person who has experienced you in a professional setting (i.e., a current or former employer); (2) one academic reference from a former professor or instructor; and (3) one personal recommendation (not a family member).

Admission process

The Admissions Committee of the Industrial-Organizational Psychology program will conduct a preliminary screening process.

  • Finalists will be invited to come to campus for personal interviews.
  • Admission to the doctoral program depends upon recommendation by the I-O faculty and approval from the I-O program director.

The entire process is usually completed within eight weeks after the final deadline date for applications.

Transfer of credits

Students who have taken graduate work at a regionally accredited institution may be allowed to transfer up to 12 quarter credits, and students who have been granted a master’s degree from a regionally accredited university in psychology, organizational psychology, business administration, or a related field may be allowed to transfer up to 30 credits. A maximum of 20 credits may be transferred toward the elective requirement.

You must provide applicable transcripts and/or syllabi for any course you wish to transfer. Each course must be at least three graduate quarter credits, equivalent to courses taught in the Organizational-Psychology programs at Seattle Pacific University, and completed within seven years of admission. A minimum grade of “B” will be needed for transfer work. Any transfer-credit petitions should be submitted only after formal admission to the doctoral program.

International students

In addition to the SPU general and the Industrial-Organizational Psychology program’s additional admission requirements , international students must also submit:

  • An official confidential affidavit of financial support covering the first year of intended enrollment. Without this document, SPU cannot issue an I-20 immigration form.
  • Students holding undergraduate or graduate degrees from colleges, universities and/or seminaries located outside the U.S. are expected to have their transcripts evaluated by a professional credential agency. Such an evaluation is required before an application for admission to SPFC can be granted and before any graduate credits taken elsewhere can be applied to a SPFC degree.
  • If you earned an undergraduate degree in a country other than the United States, or your degree is in progress, an official course-by-course credential evaluation must be submitted from a  NACES member-recognized credential service. Acceptable credential services include, but are not limited to,  World Education Services (WES) and  Foundation for International Services (FIS).
  • In addition to the evaluation report, we also require official transcripts and diplomas to be submitted, in English. International applicants are responsible for all costs associated with this service.
  •   English language proficiency: If you do not speak English as your first language, you must also submit scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 600 on the TOEFL paper or 250 on the TOEFL-CBT, or 100 on the TOEFL-iBT is required. ACE scores will not be accepted.

Program videos

4 PROGRAM PILLARS

Practice, Research, Character, You

Industrial-Organizational Psychology students sit at a conference table

Career Opportunities

The Doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology program  seeks to develop scholars, professional practitioners, and leaders who will actively engage the community and businesses around them, improving organizations and developing people as part of their jobs. 

What career options are available?

Doctoral degree graduates become scholars possessing the necessary tools, theoretical knowledge, and analytical skills to launch their academic or consulting careers.

  • They are practitioners managing change, applying scientific methodologies, and improving the organizations around them.
  • And they are leaders guiding organizations, motivating and building teams, and developing future leaders.
  • This degree prepares graduates to take on higher-level academic, consulting, and leadership positions.

Examples of potential careers include:

  • Executive coach
  • Research psychologist
  • Engineering psychologist
  • Corporate trainer
  • Human relations specialist
  • University professor

Supporting the careers of our I-O students and alumni is a high priority for the School of Psychology, Family, and Community. We have a rich community of current students and graduates. Here are some of their stories:

Dr. Joey Collins’ Research Vertical Team recently researched, tested, and practiced Coach Motivation (CM) to present at SIOP 2020. Watch the 21-minute conference presentation from Dr. Collins .

From the Collins Research Vertical Team: Predicting Coaching Effectiveness for Managers as Coaches. See the video summary .

Relationships, Accountability, Development (R.A.D.) Managers: Managerial Coaching Behaviors and Work-related Attributes. See the video summary .

  • Career planning. Using strategy tools such as scenario planning, doctoral students Lauren and Jamie worked alongside Dr. Paul Yost to create a career scenario planning document for I-O Psychology students and alumni. Students found themselves feeling hopeful at the end of the career scenario planning workshop.
  • Leadership Matters. Dr. Joey Collins and his RVT (research vertical team) share posts regularly on their “Leadership Matters Blog.” Check out recent posts .
  • Recent dissertation abstracts from I-O PhD students.

Learn more about the program.

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College of Management and Human Potential - Doctoral Programs: PhD in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology

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  • PhD in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology

Note on Licensure

Learning outcomes, specializations.

  • Learning Tracks
  • Degree Requirements

Master of Philosophy (Embedded Degree)

  • Doctoral Writing Assessment

8-Year Maximum Time Frame

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Program Website  

Defined as the “scientific study of the workplace,” industrial and organizational (I/O) psychology explores the impact of individual, group, and organizational psychology on workplace health, productivity, and effectiveness.

The PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology degree is designed to prepare scholar-practitioners to apply evidence-based I/O principles to lead positive change in the 21st-century workplace as researchers, consultants, educators, or organizational leaders.

Through core coursework completed in a prescribed sequence, students develop an in-depth understanding of individual, group, and organizational behavior in the workplace; advanced research design and analytical skills; and expertise applying evidence-based I/O practices in diverse organizational settings. Optional blended coursework provides opportunities for in-person feedback and hands-on practice, while specializations allow students to gain additional expertise in areas consistent with their interests and career goals. Through their dissertation, students have the opportunity to explore in-depth a specific area of interest and contribute to the body of knowledge in the I/O field.

The curriculum in this doctoral program is designed to reflect the professional guidelines set forth by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP).

The PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology is not a licensure-leading program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology professional.

All graduates will be prepared to:

  • Evaluate the role of industrial/organizational psychology issues in the workplace.
  • Process/Apply current industrial/organizational psychology theory and research.
  • Analyze factors contributing to performance on varied organizational levels.
  • Apply the organizational consultation process to address change and development issues.
  • Evaluate workplace dimensions using a variety of assessments.
  • Assess the impact of the employee on workplace performance .
  • Evaluate industrial/organizational psychology’s role in promoting positive social change through fostering a healthy and inclusive workplace
  • Apply basic and advanced research principles to produce independent scholarly work.

Specialization in Consulting Psychology

Specialization in evidence-based coaching, specialization in general practice, specialization in human resource management, specialization in international business, specialization in self-designed.

There are two tracks in the PhD in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology

  • Track 1  For Those Entering With a Master's Degree in I/O Psychology
  • Track 2  For Those Entering With a GPA of 3.0 on Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Another Field

Track 1: For Those Entering With an Master’s Degree in I/O Psychology

Minimum degree requirements.

  • Foundation course (3 credits)
  • Core courses (25 credits)
  • Specialization courses (15–17 credits; see each specialization for specific courses)
  • Research courses (10 credits)
  • Dissertation support courses (7 credits)
  • Dissertation writing courses (5 credits per term for a minimum of four terms; taken continuously until completion)
  • Quarter Plans
  • Four PhD residencies

Foundation Course (3 credits)

Core courses (25 credits), research courses (10 credits).

  • Students may take this a non-degree course.

Specialization Courses (15–17 credits)

These courses are dependent upon the particular specialization. Please see the course list on each specialization page

Residency Requirements

  • Residency 1 – Complete Residency 1 as soon as you begin your program; should be completed in Term 1 or Term 2.
  • Residency 2 – Complete Residency 2 at the beginning of your second year, around the time of second research course.
  • Residency 3 – Complete Residency 3 once you have a prospectus in Walden’s review system.
  • Residency 4 General  (RESI 8404) OR
  • Residency 4 Proposal Writing  (RESI 8404Q) OR
  • Residency 4 Methods & Data Collection: Qualitative  (RESI 8404R) OR
  • Residency 4 Methods & Data Collection: Quantitative  (RESI 8404S) OR
  • Residency 4 Publishing & Presenting  (RESI 8404T) OR
  • an approved professional conference (RESI 8900 for select programs only. Contact Advising for information.) OR
  • a dissertation intensive (DRWI 8500) during your 9000 course. Contact Student Success Advising to register. You must attend all sessions and advising throughout the entire intensive retreat in order to successfully complete the experience to satisfy residency 4 requirements.  NOTE: Intensive Retreats are NOT included in Fast Track tuition.
  • Optional:  Complete a  dissertation intensive  (DRWI 8500) during IPSY 9000. Contact Student Success Advising to register.

Completion of the Doctoral Dissertation

Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred.

Course Sequence for Students Entering With an MS Degree

Students undertake courses in the following sequence.

Quarter Course Credits
Quarter 1

IPSY 8004 - Foundations of Graduate Study in Psychology

3 credits

IPSY 8552 - Psychological Motivation at Work

5 credits
; should be completed in Term 1 or Term 2.
Quarter 2

IPSY 8412 - Research Foundations

5 credits
Specialization Course* 5 credits
Quarter 3

RSCH 8260 - Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis

5 credits

IPSY 8754 - Personnel Psychology in the Workplace

5 credits
Quarter 4

IPSY 8551 - I/O Tests and Measurement

5 credits
Complete Residency 2 at the beginning of your second year, around the time of second research course.  

RSCH 8360 - Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis

5 credits
Quarter 5

IPSY 8702 - Dissertation Literature Review Lab

2 credits

IPSY 8579 - Job Attitudes, Measurement, and Change

5 credits
Quarter 6 Specialization Course* 5 credits

IPSY 8185 - Writing a Quality Prospectus in Psychology

5 credits
Complete Residency 3 once you have a prospectus in Walden’s review system.
Quarter 7+ Specialization Course* 5 credits

IPSY 9000 - Dissertation** 

5 credits per term for a minimum of 4 terms; taken continuously until completion
 (RESI 8404) OR  (RESI 8404Q) OR  (RESI 8404R) OR  (RESI 8404S) OR  (RESI 8404T) OR
 Complete a   (DRWI 8500) during IPSY 9000. Contact Student Success Advising to register.

* These courses are dependent upon the particular specialization. Please see the course list on each specialization page.

** Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

Track 2: For Those Entering With a GPA of 3.0 on Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Another Field

  • Professional Development Plan and Plan of Study
  • Core courses (40 credits)
  • Research courses (25 credits)

Core Courses (40 credits)

Research courses (25 credits).

  • Students may take this as a non-degree course.

These courses are dependent upon the particular specialization. Please see the course list on each specialization page.

Course Sequence for Students Entering With a BS Degree

Quarter Course Credits
Quarter 1

IPSY 8004 - Foundations of Graduate Study in Psychology

3 credits

IPSY 8252 - Themes and Theories of I/O Psychology

5 credits
; should be completed in Term 1 or Term 2.
Quarter 2

IPSY 8480 - Psychology of Organizational Behavior

5 credits

IPSY 8214 - Consulting for Organizational Change

5 credits
Quarter 3

RSCH 8110 - Research Theory, Design, and Methods

5 credits

IPSY 8552 - Psychological Motivation at Work

5 credits
Quarter 4

RSCH 8210 - Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis

5 credits
Complete Residency 2 at the beginning of your second year, around the time of second research course.  
Specialization Course* 5 credits
Quarter 5

IPSY 8551 - I/O Tests and Measurement

5 credits

RSCH 8310 - Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis

5 credits
Quarter 6

RSCH 8260 - Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis

5 credits

IPSY 8754 - Personnel Psychology in the Workplace

5 credits
Quarter 7

IPSY 8579 - Job Attitudes, Measurement, and Change

5 credits

IPSY 8202 - Survey Research Methods

5 credits
Quarter 8

RSCH 8360 - Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis

5 credits

IPSY 8702 - Dissertation Literature Review Lab

2 credits
Quarter 9 Specialization Course* 5 credits

IPSY 8185 - Writing a Quality Prospectus in Psychology

5 credits
Complete Residency 3 once you have a prospectus in Walden’s review system.
Quarter 10+ Specialization Course* 5 credits

IPSY 9000 - Dissertation** 

5 credits per term for a minimum of 4 terms; taken continuously until completion

Complete residency 4 after your prospectus is approved as follows:

 (RESI 8404) OR  (RESI 8404Q) OR  (RESI 8404R) OR  (RESI 8404S) OR  (RESI 8404T) OR
 Complete a   (DRWI 8500) during IPSY 9000. Contact Student Success Advising to register

Walden awards the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree to recognize PhD students for academic achievement leading up to their dissertation. With an MPhil, students will be able to demonstrate to employers and others that they have an advanced knowledge base in their field of study as well as proficiency in research design and evaluation.

  • All required PhD core courses (or KAMs)
  • All required PhD specialization courses (or KAMs)
  • All required doctoral research and advanced research courses
  • Program prospectus development course
  • Residencies 1, 2, and 3
  • A minimum 3.0 GPA is mandatory.
  • The MPhil requires a minimum of 45 quarter credits. Maximum transfer of credit varies by program but is not to exceed 50% of the overall, or embedded, program requirements. Students who previously completed a master's degree with Walden in the same discipline area are not eligible for an MPhil.

Students who start or readmit to doctoral programs at Walden University in the university catalog for academic year 2017 or later will complete the university’s required  doctoral writing assessment . Designed to evaluate incoming doctoral students’ writing skills, this assessment aims to help prepare incoming doctoral students to meet the university’s expectations for writing at the doctoral level.

Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements  in the student handbook). Students may petition to extend the 8-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

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Industrial Organizational Psychology Specialization

100% online phd-psy.

Complete your studies on your own time.

NEW START DATE EVERY MONDAY

Start your first course when it’s convenient for you.

46 MONTHS TO YOUR PhD-PSY

Finish your PhD-PSY in just 20 courses.

Online Ph.D. Industrial Organizational Psychology

In the PhD-PSY in Industrial Organizational Psychology, you will learn from professors who all hold doctoral degrees to apply psychological theories to critical issues in the fields of business and industry. You’ll become adept at small group theory and team processes, dynamics of leadership and management, and the structure and procedures of organizational development.

Why Earn Your Industrial Organizational Psychology Ph.D. with National University?

The application of tests and measurements and the interpretation of their results as applied to employee selection, performance appraisals, and training evaluations will also be addressed. This specialization is aligned with the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology’s (SIOP) guidelines for education and training and will prepare you to assume leadership positions in industry, government, consulting, and education.

Note on Licensure:  Note on Licensure: NU’s psychology programs are not licensure programs, and do not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology or counseling professional. Students in the PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program may choose a non-clinical internship. At this time, internships in North Carolina for the PhD in Psychology specialization in Industrial/Organizational Psychology are not permitted.

Industry Alignment

This specialization is aligned with the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology’s (SIOP) guidelines for education and training.

Unmatched Flexibility

NU offers weekly course starts, no scheduled lecture hours, no group assignments, weekly assignments, and the ability to schedule courses around your personal and professional obligations.

100% Doctoral Faculty

No matter the degree level you pursue, you can rest assured that you will be mentored by doctors in your field of study.

One-to-One Engagement

You won’t have to fight for facetime as one of many within a classroom. At NU, you’ll have the opportunity to interact one-to-one with your professor, receiving personalized mentoring.

Course Details

Credit Hours : 60

Courses: 20

Estimated Time to Complete: 48 months

*Credit hours and courses reflect new students meeting credit requirements and utilizing no transfer credits. Est. Time of Completion reflects new students following the preferred schedule designed by the Dean for the program.

Course Name

Students in this course will be prepared for success in the psychology doctoral program at the University. Students are introduced to relevant academic communities, professional standards, and doctoral-level expectations. Essential skills needed to pursue a doctoral degree in psychology are emphasized, including critical thinking, comprehending complex scholarly texts and research articles, and effective written communications. Students will identify and begin to explore potential research topics for use in their doctoral studies and complete the course with a roadmap to navigate their way to degree completion.

This course focuses on scholarly and academic writing with an overarching goal of critically analyzing and thoughtfully synthesizing research findings while adhering to APA style and the principles of Academic Integrity. The emphases in this course are on how to (a) conduct effective literature searches; (b) critically review and summarize research studies; (c) write comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature; (d) formulate ideas and convey them in an ethical fashion; and (e) use feedback to revise and improve one’s work.

This doctoral-level course focuses on the fundamentals of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches to psychological research. Students gain an understanding of the strengths and limitations of each approach, and how these methods apply to a research topic. The concepts of critical evaluating, published research, research ethics, and developing a research proposal will also be explored and practiced. In addition, it provides a foundation for subsequent research courses in preparation for successfully completing a dissertation at the University.

This course provides an introductory exploration of statistics for the graduate student. It includes instruction on the calculation, use, and interpretation of descriptive statistics, and introduces inferential statistical analysis. The emphasis of this course is on providing a working knowledge of basic statistical concepts to help the student understand statistical methodology used in psychology, and also more generally, developing a working knowledge of statistical usage in everyday life.

This doctoral course in tests and measurements provides the student conceptual as well as practical guidelines in test and scale construction. This course will expose the students to concepts and theories including: the nature of psychological constructs and concepts, measurements and measurement error, item construction and analysis, Classical Test Theory, and the different approaches to establishing instrument reliability and validity. Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills and concepts to a construct relevant to their own research interests.

This doctoral-level course will introduce the student to psychological test construction, administration and interpretation as well as current research in the area. Commonly used tests to assess cognition and personality will be studied.

This course will provide a foundation for knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods used in the social sciences, including psychology. Knowledge of research methods is essential both for successful completion of the dissertation and for being a skilled consumer and creator of scholarly knowledge in your field. Topics explored will include the purposes of the two basic research methods (quantitative and qualitative), the nature of multiple research designs within each method, analytic strategies used within each method, factors in quality research within each method, and ethical issues in research methods. Scholarly writing and appropriate use of the scholarly literature will also be reinforced through all topics. This course is intended to provide a broad understanding of research methods to support deeper exploration and application using more refined resources in future courses.

The purpose of this course is to acquire deeper knowledge of the quantitative and qualitative designs. The focus is on active learning to develop applied research skills that will help you in design development, data collection, and data analysis reporting phases. During the course, you will also examine how your research reflections and analysis are grounded in the empirical literature.

This course focuses on how to conduct effective literature searches, specifically in preparation for the dissertation, develop a plan for writing comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature, and critically review and write about underlying theoretical frameworks that lay the foundation for future research. The overarching goal of this course is for students to conduct an extensive search of the peer-reviewed empirical and theoretical literature in their topic area and identify potential areas of inquiry for their dissertation.

The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline prior to candidacy status and demonstrated the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. Students will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer-reviewed research to support all assignments in this course. The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is completed only after all foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.

Students in this course will be required to complete Chapter 1 of their dissertation proposal including a review of literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach, and the significance of the study. A completed, committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 is required to pass this course successfully. Students who do not receive approval of Chapter 1 to minimum standards will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of Chapter 1.

Students in this course will be required to work on completing Chapters 1-3 of their dissertation proposal and receive committee approval for the Dissertation Proposal (DP) in order to pass the class. Chapter 2 consists of the literature review. Chapter 3 covers the research methodology method and design and to includes population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. In this course, a completed, committee-approved Chapters 2 and 3 are required and, by the end of the course, a final approved dissertation proposal (against the minimum rubric standards). Students who do not receive approval of the dissertation proposal will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of these requirements.

Students in this course will be required to prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application, collect data, and submit a final study closure form to the IRB. Students still in data collection at the end of the 12-week course will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to complete data collection and file an IRB study closure form.

In this dissertation course students work on completing Chapters 4 and 5 and the final Dissertation Manuscript. Specifically, students will complete their data analysis, prepare their study results, and present their findings in an Oral Defense and a completed manuscript. A completed, Committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense are required to complete the course and graduate. Students who do not receive approval for either or both their Dissertation Manuscript or defense can take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of either or both items as needed.

*The Elective course in the PhD in Psychology degree can be satisfied by any 8000-level course in the Department of Psychology.

Specialization Courses

In the PhD-PSY in Industrial-Organizational Psychology specialization, you will learn to apply psychological theories to critical issues in the fields of business and industry. Specifically, you’ll gain expertise in the dynamics of leadership and management, the best practices for enhancing employee motivation and engagement, and the structure and procedures of organizational development. You will become adept at applying the scientific method to investigate issues of critical relevance to individuals, businesses, and society; including employee stress and well-being, workforce diversity, and work-life balance. The application of tests and measurements and the interpretation of their results as applied to employee selection, performance appraisals, and training evaluations will also be addressed. During the program, you will have the option to complete an internship, where you can apply your newly gained knowledge and skills in an organizational setting. The internship course offers you the opportunity to train in the field, build your professional resume, and network with organizational practitioners. This I/O specialization was created to align with the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology’s (SIOP) guidelines for education and training, and thus it offers course work which allows for the development of key competencies required for success in the field. In particular, the I/O specialization will prepare you to assume leadership positions in industry, government, consulting, and education.

The course provides an overview of Industrial/Organizational Psychology (I/O), which involves application of the specific method to investigate issues of critical relevance to individuals, business, and society. Key concepts, tools, and research related to I/O psychology will be addressed in this course. Specifically, you will review the historical foundation of the field as well as explore topics of significance to industrial psychology (e.g., personnel selection, training and development, performance) and organizational psychology (e.g., employee motivation and attitudes, leadership, organizational development, and psychological health and well-being).

In this course, you will gain an appreciation of leadership and how it differs from management. You will approach these topics through a review of literature. Self-assessment on key leadership scales will help you to understand your own profile as leaders, as well as gain additional insight in the characteristics of leaders.

This course focuses on contemporary theories and research surrounding job attitudes and motivation in the workplace. You will explore the methods used to measure job attitudes and motivation. You will also examine strategies for increasing motivation and improving job attitudes. In addition, important issues such as generational diversity, affectivity, occupational stress, and organizational withdrawal will be addressed.

In this course you receive an overview of theory, research and practice related to the implementation and management of change in organizations. The role of culture, climate and leadership in planned organizational change is explored.

This course provides a focus on Personnel Psychology topics including recruitment, personnel selection, performance, and training. Specifically, you will review the fundamentals of job analysis and measurement which serve as the foundation of many human resource management systems. In addition, you will explore recruitment, personnel selection, and placement as well as the legal ramifications of these critical staffing decisions. Job performance models will be examined and you will apply criterion theory to understand performance measurement. Key concepts, tools and research related to career development and training will also be addressed in this course.

This course involves an examination of univariate, bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses commonly used for research in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. It will prepare you with the skills required to plan, conduct (using SPSS), report, and interpret advanced quantitative statistical analyses. Specific analyses include: correlation, regression (simple, multiple, polynomial, and logistic), analysis of variance (ANOVA) and covariance (ANCOVA), multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and covariance (MANCOVA), discriminant analysis, factor analysis, linear modeling, and structural equation modeling.

Useful Links

  • Internship Handbook – PhD-PSY Specialization in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology Learning Outcomes

  • Apprise theories and principles in psychology to inform professional contexts
  • Evaluate research methods and data analysis in psychology
  • Select psychological principles and research for application to personal, social, and organizational issues
  • Evaluate ethical principles of psychology in academic and professional issues
  • Critique diversity issues in professional contexts
  • Design clear and effective communication for fellow professionals and the public

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

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Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Ph.D.

  • Learning Outcomes
  • Requirements
  • Contact Info

Saint Louis University's graduate program in industrial-organizational psychology prepares doctorate-level professionals with the knowledge, research abilities, assessment skills and intervention approaches to impact organizational issues at the individual, group and system levels to improve individual well-being, group functioning and organizational effectiveness.

Some important topics within these levels include:

  • Individual differences
  • Performance management
  • Groups/teams
  • Organizational development
  • Occupational health
  • Systems and process consultation
  • Organizational assessment

Curriculum Overview

This SLU program requires that students complete a minimum of 73 credits (or the equivalent for students who enroll with a master's degree in industrial-organizational psychology). In addition to coursework and professional training activities, industrial-organizational psychology students must complete and successfully defend an empirical thesis and dissertation.

Graduate Handbook

Fieldwork and Research Opportunities

In SLU's  doctoral program in industrial-organizational psychology, students will learn to conduct research on and in organizations and  how to apply psychological theory, models and principles in the workplace.

Through supervised research and professional experience, students are trained as science-practitioners and are expected to develop competence in research and, if their career goals warrant, organizational consultation.

Supervised applied experience is essential for good training in the doctoral psychology program. While it is not required, most students take advantage of a vast network of professional connections that the program has established in St. Louis and complete practica (i.e., short-term projects) and/or internships (a one-year minimum commitment). Many students finish the program with two to three years of professional experience, making them attractive to potential employers.

Graduates are fully prepared to practice as industrial-organizational psychologists, applying the principles of psychology to human resources, management, marketing and more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the mean annual salary of this occupation as $113,320 in 2021.

Alumni are employed at organizations such as:

  • Center for Creative Leadership
  • Collarelli, Meyer, & Associates
  • United States Secret Service
  • Metropolitan Life
  • Embry-Riddle University
  • Northern Illinois University
  • DePaul University
  • Appalachian State University
  • Virginia Commonwealth University
  • University of West Florida

Admission Requirements

Applicants should possess an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher, a psychology major (i.e., a minimum of 18 upper-division credits in psychology, including statistics/research methods), and a review of TOEFL scores (for international applicants).

Application Requirements

We evaluate applications on several criteria including:

  • Application form (no fee required)
  • Number of courses demonstrating both depth and breadth of Psychology (we anticipate that successful applicants will have had a minimum of 18 credits in psychology)
  • Coursework in Research Methodology and Statistics.
  • GPA (we anticipate that successful applicants will report undergraduate GPAs that are at and above 3.50)
  • Professional Goal Statement (should detail previous research/applied experience and clearly align student research/applied interests with faculty research/applied programs).
  • Academic Vitae

While the criteria listed above are standard, we invite applications that may fall below any of the requirements, as strengths in some areas may compensate for weaknesses in other areas.

Requirements for International Students

All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students. International students must also meet the following additional requirements:

  • Demonstrate  English Language Proficiency
  • Courses taken and/or lectures attended
  • Practical laboratory work
  • The maximum and minimum grades attainable
  • The grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations
  • Any honors or degrees received.
  • WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
  • A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the student's time at Saint Louis University
  • A letter from the sponsor's bank verifying that the funds are available and will be so for the duration of the student's study at the University

Assistantship Application Deadline

Students who want to be considered for an assistantship must submit their application by Dec. 1.

Review Process

Applications are reviewed by a committee of I/O program psychology department faculty members.

Tuition Per Credit
Tuition Cost Per Credit
Graduate Tuition $1,370

Additional charges may apply. Other resources are listed below:

Net Price Calculator

Information on Tuition and Fees

Miscellaneous Fees

Information on Summer Tuition

Scholarships, Assistantships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for a graduate assistantship, apply by the program admission deadlines listed. Fellowships and assistantships provide a stipend and may include health insurance and a tuition scholarship for the duration of the award. 

Explore Scholarships and Financial Aid Options

  • Graduates will be able to assess the relevant scientific literature in industrial-organizational psychology.
  • Graduates will be able to apply the major research methodologies in industrial-organizational psychology.
  • Graduates will be able to use knowledge for industrial-organizational psychology to address applied problems.
  • Graduates will be able to articulate explanations about industrial-organizational psychology's approaches that are appropriate to the audience being addressed (e.g., professional or general audience).
  • Graduates will be able to evidence professional integrity as an industrial-organizational psychologist.
Course List
Code Title Credits
Required Courses
PSY 5460Advanced Organizational Psychology3
PSY 6030Human Diversity1
PSY 6800Ethics, Supervision, and Consultation3
Research Methods and Statistics
PSY 5080Advanced Quantitative Research Methods3
PSY 5790Applied Univariate Statistics in Behavioral Science3
PSY 6500Applied Multivariable and Multivariate Statistics in Behavioral Science3
Elective Advanced Methods or Statistics Course3
Advanced research methods or statistics course3
Specialized Industrial-Organizational Psychology Courses
Individual-level Courses6
Group-level Courses6
System-level Courses6
Industrial-Organizational Psychology Electives
Select 15 credits15
Research
PSY 5990Thesis Research6
PSY 6990Dissertation Research12
Total Credits73

Non-Course Requirements

  • Involvement in research/professional practice activities each semester.
  • Written and oral preliminary examinations.

Continuation Standards

Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.

Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.  

Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.

This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester. Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.

Plan of Study Grid
Year One
FallCredits
PSY 5460 Advanced Organizational Psychology 3
PSY 5080 Advanced Quantitative Research Methods 3
PSY 5790 Applied Univariate Statistics in Behavioral Science 3
PSY 5850 PRC: Applied Psychology (IO Professional Activity Group. PAG Required for Six Semesters.) 0
 Credits9
Spring
PSY 6500 Applied Multivariable and Multivariate Statistics in Behavioral Science 3
Individual- or Group- or System-Level IO Graduate Course 3
Individual- or Group- or System-Level IO Graduate Course 3
PSY 5850 PRC: Applied Psychology 0
 Credits9
Summer
PSY 5990 Thesis Research 3
 Credits3
Year Two
Fall
Advanced Graduate Methods or Statistics Course 3
Individual- or Group- or System-Level IO Graduate Course 3
Individual- or Group- or System-Level IO Graduate Course 3
PSY 5850 PRC: Applied Psychology (IO Professional Activity Group) 0
 Credits9
Spring
Advanced Graduate Methods or Statistics Course 3
Individual- or Group- or System-Level IO Graduate Course 3
PSY 5990 Thesis Research 3
PSY 5850 PRC: Applied Psychology (IO Professional Activity Group) 0
 Credits9
Summer
PSY 6800 Ethics, Supervision, and Consultation 3
Complete Professional Activity Project 1 0
 Credits3
Year Three
Fall
Individual- or Group- or System-Level IO Graduate Course 3
Elective Graduate Course 1 in IO Psychology 3
Elective Graduate Course 2 in IO Psychology 3
PSY 5850 PRC: Applied Psychology (IO Professional Activity Group) 0
Complete and Successfully Defend Master’s Thesis 0
 Credits9
Spring
Elective Graduate Course 3 in IO Psychology 3
Elective Graduate Course 4 in IO Psychology 3
PSY 6030 Human Diversity 1
PSY 5850 PRC: Applied Psychology (IO Professional Activity Group) 0
 Credits7
Summer
PSY 6630 Consultation Skills: Theory & Practice 3
Complete Professional Activity Project 2 0
 Credits3
Year Four
Fall
Completion of Preliminary Doctoral Examination 0
 Credits0
Spring
PSY 6990 Dissertation Research 6
 Credits6
Summer
PSY 6990 Dissertation Research 3
Complete Professional Activity Project 3 0
 Credits3
Year Five
Fall
PSY 6990 Dissertation Research 3
Complete and Successfully Defend Dissertation 0
 Credits3
 Total Credits73

Individual- or Group- or System-Level Industrial-Organizational Graduate Course defined by IO Psychology Graduate Student Handbook. Two courses at each level required. 

Advanced Graduate Methods or Statistics Course defined by Industrial-Organizational Psychology Graduate Student Handbook.

Elective Graduate Courses in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Statistics and methods defined by Industrial-Organizational Psychology Graduate Student Handbook. Five elective courses required.

Recommended: Satisfies Elective Graduate Course 5 in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Program Notes

Additional information regarding coursework and other program requirements can be found in the Industrial-Organizational Graduate Student Handbook. This roadmap is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute a contract. Graduation, general regulations and curricula are subject to change. Students should also be familiar with the policies and regulations contained in the Saint Louis University Graduate Education Catalog.

For additional information about our program, please contact:

Richard Harvey, Ph.D. Coordinator of graduate admissions, industrial-organizational psychology [email protected]

Texas A&M University Catalogs

Doctor of philosophy in industrial organizational psychology.

The Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology Doctoral Program trains individuals to be both scientists and practitioners. We believe that a strong grounding in basic and applied research skills and the theoretical underpinnings of I/O Psychology are essential for both academic and applied work. The goal of the I/O Psychology program is to continue to enhance its national reputation as a center of scholarly excellence in I/O Psychology by conducting high-quality basic and applied research. Consequently, faculty and student collaboration in ongoing research projects is strongly emphasized.

The program has a major emphasis on academic research-based training with the objective of placing students in academic careers. However, in addition to academic positions, our graduates are qualified for positions in research organizations, government agencies, corporations, and consulting firms. The domains of I/O Psychology represented in the program includes the areas of testing and personnel selection, training, performance appraisal, individual differences, organizational commitment, occupational health and safety, workplace diversity, and group processes.

Steps to Fulfill a Doctoral Program  

Program Requirements

  • Student's Advisory Committee

Degree Plan

Transfer of credit, research proposal, preliminary examination, preliminary examination format, preliminary examination scheduling, preliminary examination grading, failure of the preliminary examination, retake of failed preliminary examination, final examination, final examination grading, dissertation, student’s advisory committee.

After receiving admission to graduate studies and enrolling, the student will consult with the head of their major or administrative department (or chair of the intercollegiate faculty) concerning appointment of the chair of the advisory committee. The student’s advisory committee will consist of  no fewer than four members of the graduate faculty  representative of the student’s several fields of study and research, where the chair or co-chair must be from the student’s department (or intercollegiate faculty, if applicable), and  at least one or more of the members must have an appointment to a department other than the student’s major department . The outside member for a student in an interdisciplinary degree program must be from a department different from the chair of the student’s committee.

The chair, in consultation with the student, will select the remainder of the advisory committee. Only graduate faculty members located on Texas A&M University campuses may serve as chair of a student’s advisory committee. Other Texas A&M University graduate faculty members located off-campus may serve as a member or co-chair (but not chair), with a member as the chair.

If the chair of a student’s advisory committee voluntarily leaves the University and the student is near completion of the degree and wants the chair to continue to serve in this role, the student is responsible for securing a current member of the University Graduate Faculty, from the student’s academic program and located near the Texas A&M University campus site, to serve as the co-chair of the committee. The Department Head or Chair of Intercollegiate faculty may request in writing to the Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate and Professional School that a faculty member who is on an approved leave of absence or has voluntarily separated from the university, be allowed to continue to serve in the role of chair of a student’s advisory committee without a co-chair for up to one year. The students should be near completion of the degree. Extensions beyond the one year period can be granted with additional approval of the Dean.

The committee members’ signatures on the degree plan indicate their willingness to accept the responsibility for guiding and directing the entire academic program of the student and for initiating all academic actions concerning the student. Although individual committee members may be replaced by petition for valid reasons, a committee cannot resign  en masse . The chair of the committee, who usually has immediate supervision of the student’s research and dissertation or record of study, has the responsibility for calling all meetings of the committee. The duties of the committee include responsibility for the proposed degree plan, the research proposal, the preliminary examination, the dissertation or record of study and the final examination. In addition, the committee, as a group and as individual members, is responsible for counseling the student on academic matters, and, in the case of academic deficiency, initiating recommendations to the Graduate and Professional School.

The student’s advisory committee will evaluate the student’s previous education and degree objectives. The committee, in consultation with the student, will develop a proposed degree plan and outline a research problem which, when completed, as indicated by the dissertation (or its equivalent for the degree of Doctor of Education or the degree of Doctor of Engineering), will constitute the basic requirements for the degree. The degree plan must be filed with the Graduate and Professional School prior to the deadline imposed by the student’s college and no later than 90 days prior to the preliminary examination.

This proposed degree plan should be submitted through the online Document Processing Submission System located on the website  http://ogsdpss.tamu.edu . A minimum of 64 hours is required on the degree plan for the Doctor of Philosophy for a student who has completed a master’s degree. A student who has completed a DDS/DMD, DVM or a MD at a U.S. institution is also required to complete a minimum of 64 hours. A student who has completed a baccalaureate degree but not a master’s degree will be required to complete a 96-hour degree plan. Completion of a DDS/DMD, DVM or MD degree at a foreign institution requires completion of a minimum of 96 hours for the Doctor of Philosophy. A field of study may be primarily in one department or in a combination of departments. A degree plan must carry a reasonable amount of 691 (research). A maximum of 9 hours of 400-level undergraduate courses may be used toward meeting credit-hour requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy.

Additional coursework may be added by petition to the approved degree plan by the student’s advisory committee if it is deemed necessary to correct deficiencies in the student’s academic preparation. No changes can be made to the degree plan once the student’s Request for Final Examination is approved by the Graduate and Professional School.

Approval to enroll in any professional course (900-level) should be obtained from the head of the department (or Chair of the intercollegiate faculty, if applicable) in which the course will be offered before including such a course on a degree plan.

No credit may be obtained by correspondence study, by extension or for any course of fewer than three weeks duration.

For non-distance degree programs, no more than 50 percent of the non-research credit hours required for the program may be completed through distance education courses.

To receive a graduate degree from Texas A&M University, students must earn one-third or more of the credits through the institution’s own direct instruction. This limitation also applies to joint degree programs. 

Courses for which transfer credits are sought must have been completed with a grade of B or greater and must be approved by the student’s advisory committee and the Graduate and Professional School. These courses must not have been used previously for another degree. Except for officially approved cooperative doctoral programs, credit for thesis or dissertation research or the equivalent is not transferable. Credit for “internship” coursework in any form is not transferable. Courses taken in residence at an accredited U.S. institution or approved international institution with a final grade of B or greater will be considered for transfer credit if, at the time the courses were completed, the courses would be accepted for credit toward a similar degree for a student in degree-seeking status at the host institution. Credit for coursework taken by extension is not transferable. Coursework  in which no formal grades are given or in which grades other than letter grades (A or B) are earned (for example, CR, P, S, U, H, etc.) is not accepted for transfer credit . Credit for coursework submitted for transfer from any college or university must be shown in semester credit hours, or equated to semester credit hours.

Courses used toward a degree at another institution may not be applied for graduate credit. If the course to be transferred was taken prior to the conferral of a degree at the transfer institution, a letter from the registrar at that institution stating that the course was not applied for credit toward the degree must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School.

Grades for courses completed at other institutions are not included in computing the GPA. An official transcript from the university at which transfer courses are taken must be sent directly to the Office of Admissions.

The general field of research to be used for the dissertation should be agreed on by the student and the advisory committee at their first meeting, as a basis for selecting the proper courses to support the proposed research.

As soon thereafter as the research project can be outlined in reasonable detail, the dissertation research proposal should be completed. The research proposal should be approved at a meeting of the student’s advisory committee, at which time the feasibility of the proposed research and the adequacy of available facilities should be reviewed. The approved proposal, signed by all members of the student’s advisory committee, the head of the student’s major department (or chair of the intercollegiate faculty, if applicable), must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School at least 20 working days prior to the submission of the Request for the Final Examination.

Compliance issues must be addressed if a graduate student is performing research involving human subjects, animals, infectious biohazards and recombinant DNA. A student involved in these types of research should check with the Office of Research Compliance and Biosafety at (979) 458-1467 to address questions about all research compliance responsibilities. Additional information can also be obtained on the website  http:// rcb.tamu.edu .

Examinations

The student’s major department (or chair of the interdisciplinary degree program faculty, if applicable) and their advisory committee may require qualifying, cumulative or other types of examinations at any time deemed desirable. These examinations are entirely at the discretion of the department and the student’s advisory committee.

The preliminary examination is required. The preliminary examination for a doctoral student shall be given no earlier than a date at which the student is within 6 credit hours of completion of the formal coursework on the degree plan (i.e., all coursework on the degree plan except 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 693, 695, 697, 791, or other graduate courses specifically designated as S/U in the course catalog). The student should complete the Preliminary Examination no later than the end of the semester following the completion of the formal coursework on the degree plan.

The objective of preliminary examination is to evaluate whether the student has demonstrated the following qualifications:

a.     a mastery of the subject matter of all fields in the program;

b.     an adequate knowledge of the literature in these fields and an ability to carry out bibliographical research;

c.     an understanding of the research problem and the appropriate methodological approaches.

The format of the preliminary examination shall be determined by the student’s department (or interdisciplinary degree program, if applicable) and advisory committee, and communicated to the student in advance of the examination. The exam may consist of a written component, oral component, or combination of written and oral components.

The preliminary exam may be administered by the advisory committee or a departmental committee; herein referred to as the examination committee.

Regardless of exam format, a student will receive an overall preliminary exam result of pass or fail. The department (or interdisciplinary degree program, if applicable) will determine how the overall pass or fail result is determined based on the exam structure and internal department procedures. If the exam is administered by the advisory committee, each advisory committee member will provide a pass or fail evaluation decision.

Only one advisory committee substitution is allowed to provide an evaluation decision for a student’s preliminary exam, and it cannot be the committee chair.

If a student is required to take, as a part of the preliminary examination, a written component administered by a department or interdisciplinary degree program, the department or interdisciplinary degree program faculty must:

a.     offer the examination at least once every six months. The departmental or interdisciplinary degree program examination should be announced at least 30 days prior to the scheduled examination date.

b.     assume the responsibility for marking the examination satisfactory or unsatisfactory, or otherwise graded, and in the case of unsatisfactory, stating specifically the reasons for such a mark.

c.     forward the marked examination to the chair of the student’s advisory committee within one week after the examination.

Students are eligible for to schedule the preliminary examination in the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) if they meet the following list of eligibility requirements:

Student is registered at Texas A&M University for a minimum of one semester credit hour in the long semester or summer term during which any component of the preliminary examination is held. If the entire examination is held between semesters, then the student must be registered for the term immediately preceding the examination.

An approved degree plan is on file with the Graduate and Professional School prior to commencing the first component of the examination.

Student’s cumulative GPA is at least 3.000.

Student’s degree plan GPA is at least 3.000.

At the end of the semester in which at least the first component of the exam is given, there are no more than 6 hours of coursework remaining on the degree plan (except 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 693, 695, 697, 791, or other graduate courses specifically designated as S/U in the course catalog). The head of the student’s department (or Chair of the Interdisciplinary Degree Program, if applicable) has the authority to approve a waiver of this criterion.

Credit for the preliminary examination is not transferable in cases where a student changes degree programs after passing a preliminary exam.

If a written component precedes an oral component of the preliminary exam, the chair of the student’s examination committee is responsible for making all written examinations available to all members of the committee. A positive evaluation of the preliminary exam by all members of a student’s examination committee with at most one dissension is required to pass a student on their preliminary exam.

The student’s department will promptly report the results of the Preliminary Examination to the Graduate and Professional School via the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) within 10 working days of completion of the preliminary examination.

If an approved examination committee member substitution (one only) has been made, their approval must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS. The approval of the designated department approver is also required on the request.

After passing the required preliminary oral and written examinations for a doctoral degree, the student must complete the final examination within four years of the semester in which the preliminary exam is taken. Exams taken in between terms will expire at the end of the term that ended prior to the exam. For example, a preliminary exam taken and passed during the Fall 2023 semester will expire at the end of the Fall 2027 semester. A preliminary exam taken in the time between the Summer and Fall 2023 semesters will expire at the end of the Summer 2027 semester.

First Failure

Upon approval of a student’s examination committee (with no more than one member dissenting), and approval of the Department and Graduate and Professional School, a student who has failed a preliminary examination may be given one re-examination. In accordance with Student Rule 12.5, the student’s department head or designee, intercollegiate faculty, or graduate advisory committee should make a recommendation to the student regarding their scholastic deficiency.

Second Failure

Upon failing the preliminary exam twice in a doctoral program, a student is no longer eligible to continue to pursue the PhD in that program/major. In accordance with Student Rule 12.5.3 and/or 12.5.4, the student will be notified of the action being taken by the department as a result of the second failure of the preliminary examination.

Adequate time must be given to permit a student to address inadequacies emerging from the first preliminary examination. The examination committee must agree upon and communicate to the student, in writing, an adequate time-frame from the first examination (normally six months) to retest, as well as a detailed explanation of the inadequacies emerging from the examination. The student and committee should jointly negotiate a mutually acceptable date for this retest.  When providing feedback on inadequacies, the committee should clearly document expected improvements that the student must be able to exhibit in order to retake the exam.  The examination committee will document and communicate the time-frame and feedback within 10 working days of the exam that was not passed.

Candidates for the doctoral degrees must pass a final examination by deadline dates announced in the  Graduate and Professional School Calendar  each semester. A doctoral student is allowed only one opportunity to take the final examination.

No unabsolved grades of D, F, or U for any course can be listed on the degree plan. The student must be registered for any remaining hours of 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 791 or other graduate courses specifically designated as S/U in the course catalog during the semester of the final exam. No student may be given a final examination until they have been admitted to candidacy and their current official cumulative and degree plan GPAs are 3.00 or better.

Refer to the  Admission to Candidacy  section of the graduate catalog for candidacy requirements.

A request to schedule the final examination must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS a minimum of 10 working days in advance of the scheduled date. Any changes to the degree plan must be approved by the Graduate and Professional School prior to the submission of the request for final examination.

The student’s advisory committee will conduct this examination. Only one committee member substitution is allowed with the approval of the Graduate and Professional School. If the substitution is for the sole external member of the advisory committee - with an appointment to a department other than the student's major department - then the substitute must also be external to the student's major department. In extenuating circumstances, with the approval of the Graduate and Professional School, an exception to this requirement may be granted.

The final examination is not to be administered until the dissertation or record of study is available in substantially final form to the student’s advisory committee, and all concerned have had adequate time to review the document.  Whereas the final examination may cover the broad field of the candidate’s training, it is presumed that the major portion of the time will be devoted to the dissertation and closely allied topics. Persons other than members of the graduate faculty may, with mutual consent of the candidate and the chair of the advisory committee, be invited to attend a final examination for an advanced degree. A positive vote by all members of the graduate committee with at most one dissension is required to pass a student on their exam. A department can have a stricter requirement provided there is consistency within all degree programs within a department. Upon completion of the questioning of the candidate, all visitors must excuse themselves from the proceedings.

The student’s department will promptly report the results of the Final Examination to the Graduate and Professional School via the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) within 10 working days of completion of the final examination. The Graduate and Professional School will be automatically notified via ARCS of any cancellations.

A positive evaluation of the final exam by all members of a student’s advisory committee with at most one dissension is required to pass a student on their final exam. If an approved committee member substitution (1 only) has been made, their approval must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS.

The dissertation,  which must be a candidate's original work demonstrates the ability to perform independent research . Whereas acceptance of the dissertation is based primarily on its scholarly merit, it must also exhibit creditable literary workmanship. Dissertation formatting must be acceptable to the Graduate and Professional School as outlined in the Guidelines for Theses, Dissertations, and Records of Study.

After successful defense and approval by the student’s advisory committee and the head of the student’s major department (or chair of intercollegiate faculty, if applicable), a student must submit the dissertation in electronic format as a single PDF file to https://etd.tamu.edu/ . Additionally, a dissertation approval form with original signatures must be received by the Graduate and Professional School through the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS). Both the PDF file and the completed ARCS approval form must be received by the deadline.

Deadline dates for submitting are announced each semester or summer term in the Graduate and Professional School Calendar (see Time Limit statement). These dates also can be accessed via the  Graduate and Professional School website .

Each student who submits a document for review is assessed a one-time thesis/dissertation processing fee through Student Business Services. This processing fee is for the thesis/dissertation services provided. After commencement, dissertations are digitally stored and made available through the Texas A&M Libraries.

A dissertation that is deemed unacceptable by the Graduate and Professional School because of excessive corrections will be returned to the student’s department head or chair of the intercollegiate faculty . The manuscript must be resubmitted as a new document, and the entire review process must begin anew. All original submittal deadlines must be met during the resubmittal process to graduate.

Additional Requirements

Continuous registration, admission to candidacy.

  • 99-Hour Cap on Doctoral Degree

Application for Degree

A student who enters the doctoral degree program with a baccalaureate degree must spend one academic year plus one semester in resident study at Texas A&M University. A student who holds master’s degree when they enter a doctoral degree program must spend one academic year in resident study. One academic year may include two adjacent regular semesters or one regular semester and one adjacent 10-week summer semester. The third semester is not required to be adjacent to the one year. Enrollment for each semester must be a minimum of 9 credit hours each to satisfy the residence requirement. A minimum of 1 credit hour must be in a non-distance education delivery mode. Semesters in which the student is enrolled in all distance education coursework will not count toward fulfillment of the residence requirement.

To satisfy the residence requirement, the student must complete a minimum of 9 credit hours per semester or 10-week summer semester in resident study at Texas A&M University for the required period. A student who enters a doctoral degree program with a baccalaureate degree may fulfill residence requirements in excess of one academic year (18 credit hours) by registration during summer sessions or by completion of a less-than-full course load (in this context a full course load is considered 9 credit hours per semester).

Students who are employed full-time while completing their degree may fulfill total residence requirements by completion of less-than-full time course loads each semester. In order to be considered for this, the student is required to submit a Petition for Waivers and Exceptions along with verification of employment to the Graduate and Professional School. An employee should submit verification of employment at the time they submit the degree plan. See  Registration .

See  Residence Requirements .

All requirements for doctoral degrees must be completed within a period of ten consecutive calendar years for the degree to be granted. A course will be considered valid until 10 years after the end of the semester in which it is taken. Graduate credit for coursework more than ten calendar years old at the time of the final oral examination may not be used to satisfy degree requirements.

After passing the required preliminary oral and written examinations for a doctoral degree, the student must complete the final examination within four years of the semester in which the preliminary exam is taken. Exams taken in between terms will expire at the end of the term that ended prior to the exam. For example, a preliminary exam taken and passed during the fall 2019 semester will expire at the end of the fall 2023 semester. A preliminary exam taken in the time between the summer and fall 2019 semesters will expire at the end of the summer 2023 semester.

A final corrected version of the dissertation or record of study in electronic format as a single PDF file must be cleared by the Graduate and Professional School within one year of the semester in which the final exam is taken. Exams taken in between terms will expire at the end of the term that ended prior to the exam. For example, a final exam taken and passed during the fall 2022 semester will expire at the end of the fall 2023 semester. A final exam taken in the time between the summer and fall 2022 semesters will expire at the end of the summer 2023 semester. Failure to do so will result in the degree not being awarded.

A student in a program leading to a Doctor of Philosophy who has completed all coursework on their degree plan other than 691 (research) are required to be in continuous registration until all requirements for the degree have been completed. See  Continuous Registration Requirements .

To be admitted to candidacy for a doctoral degree, a student must have:

  • completed all formal coursework on the degree plan with the exception of any remaining 681, 684, 690 and 691, or 791.
  • a 3.0 Graduate GPA and a Degree Plan GPA of at least 3.0 with no grade lower than C in any course on the degree plan,
  • passed the preliminary examination (written and oral portions),
  • submitted an approved dissertation proposal,
  • met the residence requirements. The final examination will not be authorized for any doctoral student who has not been admitted to candidacy.

A student is required to possess a competent command of English. For English language proficiency requirements, see the Admissions section of this catalog. The doctoral (PhD) foreign language requirement at Texas A&M University is a departmental option, to be administered and monitored by the individual departments of academic instruction.

99-Hour Cap on Doctoral Degrees

In Texas, public colleges and universities are funded by the state according to the number of students enrolled. In accordance with legislation passed by the Texas Legislature, the number of hours for which state universities may receive subvention funding at the doctoral rate for any individual is limited to 99 hours. Texas A&M and other universities will not receive subvention for hours in excess of the limit.

Institutions of higher education are allowed to charge the equivalent of non-resident tuition to a resident doctoral student who has enrolled in 100 or more semester credit hours of doctoral coursework.

Doctoral students at Texas A&M have seven years to complete their degree before being charged out-of-state tuition. A doctoral student who, after seven years of study, has accumulated 100 or more doctoral hours will be charged tuition at a rate equivalent to out-of-state tuition. Please note that the tuition increases will apply to Texas residents as well as students from other states and countries who are currently charged tuition at the resident rate. This includes those doctoral students who hold GAT, GANT, and GAR appointments or recipients of competitive fellowships who receive more than $1,000 per semester. Doctoral students who have not accumulated 100 hours after seven years of study are eligible to pay in-state tuition if otherwise eligible.

Doctoral students who exceed the credit limit will receive notification from the Graduate and Professional School during the semester in which they are enrolled and exceeding the limit in their current degree program. The notification will explain that the State of Texas does not provide funding for any additional hours in which a student is enrolled in excess of 99 hours. Texas A&M University will recover the lost funds by requiring students in excess of 99 hours to pay tuition at the non-funded, non-resident rate. This non-funded, non-resident tuition rate status will be updated for the following semester and in all subsequent semesters until receipt of a doctoral degree. Please see the  Tuition Calculator  at the non-resident rate for an example of potential charges.

The following majors are exempt from the 99-Hour Cap on Doctoral Degrees and have a limit of 130 doctoral hours:

  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Counseling Psychology
  • Genetics and Genomics
  • Health Services Research
  • Medical Sciences
  • Microbiology
  • Neurosciences (College of Medicine)
  • Oral and Craniofacial Biomedical Sciences
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Public Health Sciences
  • School Psychology

For information on applying for your degree, please visit the  Graduation  section.

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Industrial-Organizational Psychology Graduate Program

Department of Psychological Sciences

Industrial and organizational (I-O) psychology is interested in people in the workplace and how work affects people’s lives more broadly. This knowledge of human behavior in organizations allows I-O psychologists to solve workplace problems and enhance workplace well-being, fairness and productivity. Applying psychological theories and principles, the industrial component of I-O psychology focuses on selecting and training workers, and the organizational component focuses on creating a conducive environment for workers. The field of I-O psychology is leading the way in understanding future of work and big data trends.

Ranked No. 7 in the world by U.S. News and World Report , Purdue University’s I-O psychology program is also one of the oldest, having conferred its first degree in 1939. Additionally, Purdue’s I-O psychology program has graduated more PhDs and produced more Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) fellows than any other.

Graduate students are admitted to work with a primary faculty member who will serve as their mentor. Heavily research-oriented, graduate training is based on a science-practice model, so students are trained as both researchers and applied scientists, equipped to work with organizations on human resources-related issues. Graduate students will also have opportunities to gain teaching experience in the program.

All graduate students are admitted with funding and will have guaranteed funding for five years, provided they are making strong progress toward their PhD. An admitted student will typically work as a graduate teaching assistant for 20 hours per week during the academic year and receive a nine-month stipend and tuition waiver. Students may also receive funding during summers if they obtain a teaching assistant position or if they are employed as a research assistant.

Program Highlights

  • You will work with a faculty mentor with related research interests. As you grow in knowledge and expertise, you are encouraged to collaborate with different faculty to develop your own unique research stream.
  • Faculty and graduate students frequently collaborate with faculty in the social, cognitive and clinical psychology areas as well as faculty in the Krannert School of Management.
  • Because we value social responsibility, the I-O psychology program at Purdue is the first to become a UN Global Compact participant, by which we place an emphasis within our courses and program activities on organizations’ responsibilities to human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption.
  • While there is significant overlap with organizational behavior and human resources, the I-O psychology program emphasizes the scientific study of work, workers and the workplace, focusing on outcomes experienced by the employees rather than exclusively organizational outcomes.
  • As a graduate student in the I-O psychology program, you’ll be considered a member of the Purdue Association of Graduate Students in Industrial Psychology (PAGSIP) . This organization provides opportunities for you to meet informally with other I-O psychology students to discuss research ideas and problems as well as to connect with program alumni.
  • The Purdue I-O area is partnering with Instats to connect with some of the best methodologists in the world.

Instats logo

Potential Careers

As an I-O psychologist, you’ll have opportunities to work in academia, federal governments, consulting organizations and more. Our alumni have gone on to work at top-ranked universities, including the University of Houston and Bowling Green State University, and acclaimed organizations, such as Google, PepsiCo, NATO and more.

  • Industrial-organizational psychologist
  • University faculty member
  • Human resources director
  • Quantitative user experience researcher
  • Postdoctoral researcher
  • Research psychologist

Plan of Study

Each graduate student admitted to a degree program must file an individualized plan of study to guide their academic progress. The plan of study is an academic contract between the student, advisory committee members and the Graduate School. Students filing their plan of study should complete their plan electronically via the Plan of Study Generator on MyPurdue. More information about creating a plan of study can be found in the Department of Psychological Sciences’ graduate handbook.

Program Quick Facts

Degree Type : Doctoral

Program Length : 4-6 years

Location : West Lafayette, IN

Department/School : Department of Psychological Sciences

Students are strongly encouraged to participate in faculty research and eventually formulate and direct their own individual research projects. Faculty in the I-O psychology graduate program have a wide range of research interests, many of which center around the psychological experiences of people at work.

Bridge Topics

Within the industrial-organizational psychology program, faculty also have research interests in several bridge topics, including diversity and inclusion, individual differences, maladaptive behavior, perception and performance, and social relationships. I-O psychology faculty studying diversity and inclusion focus on diversity in hiring, cultural synergy in multicultural spaces and work attitudes. Individual differences research examines achievement, conflict management and predictors of workplace outcomes. Maladaptive behavior research in the I-O psychology program is centered around bias and conflict escalation. Program faculty who study perception and performance investigate person-environment fit. Finally, I-O psychology faculty studying social relationships seek to improve workplace well-being and interpersonal relationships.

People in an office setting

Research Opportunities

  • Cultural collision and synergy
  • Strategies for difficult communication
  • Goals and self-regulation
  • Relationships and work
  • Optimizing hiring decisions using statistical models
  • Big data and machine learning
  • Individual differences
  • Diversity in recruitment and selection
  • Franki Y. H. Kung
  • Sang Eun Woo

Admissions/Requirements

Many students enter the PhD program with a bachelor’s degree, although some enter with a master’s degree. We are particularly interested in students who have undergraduate or graduate research experience as well as those who have a master’s degree in I-O psychology or a similar field. We’re looking for the following knowledge and skills that are important for success in the I-O psychology graduate program:

  • Knowledge of I-O psychology literature and science efficacy
  • Motivation and interest in scientific research and I-O psychology
  • Conscientiousness
  • Resilience and emotional stability
  • Self-direction, self-regulation and independence
  • Advanced quantitative skills
  • Advanced reading and writing skills
  • Interpersonal communication and emotional intelligence
  • Critical- and systematic-thinking skills
  • Intellectual and scientific creativity
  • Openness and humility
  • Collaboration skills
  • Learning and growth mindset
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Time management and organizational skills

Within your application, the statement of interest is particularly important to showcase a good alignment of research interests between you and faculty members. You are also encouraged to contact faculty members with whom you are interested in working.

Faculty recruiting new students for Fall 2025 admission will be posted here in October 2024.

Connect with Us!

If you have questions or to learn more about this program, please contact the Department of Psychological Sciences Graduate Program Coordinator, Nancy O’Brien at [email protected] .

Nancy O’Brien Purdue University 701 Third Street West Lafayette, IN 47907

(765) 494-6067

[email protected]

phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

Industrial/Organizational Psychology (PhD)

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Industrial/Organizational Psychology (PhD) – STEM Designated Degree Program

Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior in the workplace. It focuses on the assessment of individual, group and organizational dynamics and application of evidence-based principles to improve the well-being and performance of an organization and its employees. I/O psychologists look at questions such as: What are the best ways to select and retain employees? How are decisions made? How do we train better leaders? What makes employees happy and engaged? How do team members interact and collaborate? Knowing the answers to these questions and many others help business owners determine where to change systems to improve company functioning. I/O psychology has taken on an increasingly strategic dimension in the world of business.

Unique Advantages of the I/O Psychology PhD at Montclair State

The Ph.D. program in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at Montclair follows the scientist-practitioner model, equally emphasizing the generation and application of psychological science to improve the workplace. Students will develop their research and analytical skills in concert with individual faculty members while also applying this knowledge through coursework, consulting, and experiential projects. The Montclair I/O program also has many unique offerings to service a new generation of doctoral students in the 21 st century, such as:

  • Wide Expertise: We have 8 full-time and affiliate faculty with active laboratories, making us one of the largest I/O Psychology programs in terms of research breadth. Students can choose a range of mentors who best align with personal interests and career endeavors.
  • Balance: Our program adheres to the SIOP competency model for graduate education (SIOP, 2017) to offer a balanced curriculum equally emphasizing methodological, industrial, and organizational topics.
  • Business Strategy: Students are required to take business courses in competitive advantage, HR strategy, and organizational development. The exposure to big-picture areas and actual business operations helps students close the intersection between I/O ideas and strategic concerns facing executives and managers.
  • Quantitative Certification:  I/O Psychology PhD students will also fulfill all requirements to obtain the Advanced Quantitative Methods in Psychology (Certificate) along the way.
  • Data Science: We are the only I/O Psychology PhD program to offer a Data Science concentration in computer science where students take courses in Python, computational modeling, database systems, data mining, and natural language processing.
  • Eagle I.O. Students can participate in a student led consultancy group providing evidence-based services to local organizations to improve organizational effectiveness.
  • Support: The program is dedicated to a strong, collaborative culture which supports student development. Most doctoral students are guaranteed funding for their first four years of study. There is also an onboarding process, peer mentorship program, annual celebratory party, SIOP reception for alumni and students, and financial support for travel and research.
  • Statistical Training in R: The Psychology department offers a specialized R Data Science course for social scientists, teaches most quantitative courses in R, and is creating a quantitative certification for students seeking to specialize in advanced statistical modeling.
  • Regional Reputation: We are the only I/O Psychology PhD program in the state of New Jersey. The program builds on the current MA program which is among one of the most rigorous and best respected in the region. Faculty regularly serve on boards of local I/O professional groups which provide speakers and development opportunities.

Along with the Industrial/Organizational Psychology (PhD) degree, the department also offers an Industrial and Organizational Psychology (MA) degree. More details about the I/O program can be found at the Psychology Department’s website .

Please refer to our  programs of study  page for a comprehensive list of all of the graduate programs offered within the university.

The Office of Graduate Admissions requires the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree in order to be eligible to apply for a graduate program. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in psychology OR a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits in psychology, including a course in statistics and a laboratory experimental course. Please note: an introductory course in psychology does not count toward the minimum credit requirement, though it might be needed as a pre-requisite to other psychology courses. Students demonstrating a strong background in psychology and behavioral research will be given priority.

Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the  International Applicants  page to review the U.S. degree equivalency information.

In order to make applying for graduate school as seamless as possible for you, we have created an application checklist. This checklist can be a reference point for you during the application process to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the steps needed to apply, as well as all corresponding supplemental materials for your specific program of interest.

  • Application Deadline: December 1st. Please note: Upon offer of admission, you will be asked to submit an enrollment deposit of $200.  
  • Submit Online Application: Please create your online account and submit your application by following the general application instructions and pay (or waive) the non-refundable $60 application fee. Once this step has been completed, the online portal will allow you to upload your supplemental materials.

The following is a list of the supplemental materials that will accompany your application for the Industrial/Organizational Psychology (PhD) program:

  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
  • In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career? Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
  • What are your thoughts, ideas, and areas of interest that may lead to dissertation research?
  • Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?
  • Letters of Recommendation: Three (3) letters of recommendation, from persons qualified to evaluate the applicant’s promise of academic achievement and potential for professional growth.
  • Standardized Test Scores: GRE (General Test)
  • Resume:  A current resume is not required, but applicants are encouraged to include one.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.

The Ph.D. degree requires completion of 79-81 credits hours of which students take 24 credits the first year and approximately 18 credits all remaining years. The first year is course heavy and focuses on statistics and design, I/O domains, and business strategy. Students are also encouraged to establish a relationship with their research advisor as early as possible during the first year. The second year leads into advanced I-O topics along with a structured, year-long research experience where students formulate original theoretical ideas, develop multi-method studies, and present findings at a program-wide colloquium. Following second year, students complete a prospective comprehensive examination to qualify for doctoral status. During the last two years, students refine their focus through advanced seminars, dissertation, teaching, and a specialization, allowing scholarly pursuits most relevant to their personal and career goals.

I/O Psychology Core 16 credits
I/O Psychology Options 12 credits
Methods, Stats, and Data Science 15 credits
Advanced Statistics 3 credits
Business and HR Strategy 3 credits
Specialization [Psych, Business, or Data Science] 12-14 credits
Advanced Electives 6 credits
Thesis and Dissertation 18 credits
79-81 credits

If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please email or call us: Office of Graduate Admissions Email: [email protected] Telephone:  973-655-5147 Fax: 973-655-7869

If you have specific inquiries regarding your program of interest, please contact the Industrial/Organizational Psychology (PhD) Program Coordinator:

Program Coordinator: Dr. Valerie Sessa Email: [email protected]

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College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Department of Psychological Sciences

Industrial and organizational psychology.

Ph.D. Concentration

UConn’s industrial and organizational psychology concentration emphasizes the research and application of psychological methods and principles to understand human behavior in work settings.

Faculty work closely with students to develop a course plan and research experiences that highlight personnel and organizational psychology or human factors and ergonomics. Many students also develop special expertise in quantitative research methods and occupational health psychology .

  • Ph.D. in Psychological Sciences
  • Industrial and Organizational Psychology Ph.D. Concentration
  • Resources for Current Students

Read Our Admissions Requirements

Meet Our Faculty

Meet Our Graduate Students

Program Overview

UConn graduate students earning a Ph.D. in psychological sciences can choose a concentration in industrial and organizational (I/O) psychology. UConn’s I/O concentration focuses on applying psychological methods and principles to understanding human behavior in work settings. Students in this concentration work closely with their professors to develop a course plan and research experiences that emphasize one of two areas of specialization:

  • Personnel and organizational psychology
  • Human factors and ergonomics

Students also have the option of completing graduate certificate programs in occupational health psychology, quantitative research methods, or health psychology.  

Review curriculum and academic milestones

The I/O concentration is designed to provide learning experiences for students to apply their research skills in organizational settings. Students in the I/O concentration develop research and measurement skills that can be used to address the problems of business, government, and industry. All students are expected to engage in research during every semester that they are in residence at UConn. This is carried out in close collaboration with faculty in the program.

In addition, all students are required to complete a field research experience as part of their graduate training. Those who plan to pursue academic careers are also urged to take advantage of opportunities for independent classroom teaching experiences.

Learn more about research specialties.

Learn more about I/O graduate research and field work.

Students who complete the I/O concentration are prepared to enter careers in academic settings and a variety of applied settings, including large corporations, government research units, and consulting organizations. Examples of organizations where alumni have accepted positions upon graduation include: Aptima Corporation, AON Consulting, Bowling Green State University, IBM Corporation – Human Factors Solutions, IBM International – Global Employee Research, LIMRA International, Quinnipiac University, San Diego State University, The Hartford, University of Georgia, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation Research Center, and Wayne State University.

Learn more about graduate careers and outcomes.

Financial Aid

Most students admitted into the Ph.D. program receive a graduate assistantship for research or teaching. The assistantship includes a tuition waiver, stipend, and a range of other benefits. Students can also apply for other scholarships, fellowships, and awards based on financial need and academic merit, as well as interdisciplinary graduate training programs .

Learn more about graduate funding and financial support.

All application materials must be received by December 1.

Full Ph.D. Admissions Requirements

  Please designate "industrial and organizational psychology” as your concentration in the online application.

We strongly encourage applicants to review our list of faculty members and reach out to inquire whether they are accepting new students.

For questions about the developmental psychology concentration, please contact the director:

Vicki Magley

Professor of Psychological Sciences [email protected]

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  • PhD in Psychology
  • Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Industrial/Organizational Psychology Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

The workplace is constantly evolving. Capella University offers an online PhD in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology program that equips you to lead through change by assessing and solving real-world problems, enhancing culture and well-being and designing effective organizations.

You’ll be prepared with the knowledge and skills you need to pursue your professional goals.

Relevant, real-world learning

Your psychology coursework allows you to conduct research in consultation with Capella faculty.

Complementary coursework approach

Get direct, intensive experience with virtual residencies that enhance your online coursework and help you complete your program successfully.

Scholar-practitioner faculty

Learn the latest in theory and practice from experienced doctoral faculty actively engaged in their professions.

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

  • 7 Core courses
  • 7 Specialization courses
  • 3 Virtual residencies
  • 4 Dissertation courses
  • 84 Total quarter credits (24 Max transfer)

Reduce your tuition by $5,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $5K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Courses and skills

Explore industrial/organizational psychology courses.

  • This program requires a total of 84 quarter credits
  • You’ll need to complete seven core courses, seven specialization courses, three virtual residencies and four dissertation courses

View all courses in catalog

Course number & name Course description Credits
RSCH7020 Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Research in a Diverse World Learners evaluate their own biases with an emphasis on self-awareness and reflection on cultural identity and ethics in research. Learners develop strategies to apply and incorporate ethical and multicultural principles and influences in research and publications. 4 quarter credits
PSY6710 Principles of I/O Psychology In this course, learners identify and confirm theories and research of industrial/organizational psychology. Learners examine the various psychological constructs affecting individuals, groups, teams, and organizations in the workplace and explore diversity and ethical principles as they relate to decision-making processes. Learners also evaluate the differences between industrial and organizational psychology and explore various assessment methods, models, and interventions applicable across workplace settings. 5 quarter credits
PSY8721 Introduction to Business Practice for Psychology Learners identify business practices for starting, operating, and maintaining a viable consulting business. Learners develop an understanding of the knowledge and skills for consulting, including preparing for a consulting career, starting and promoting a consulting business, maintaining the business, and learning how to actualize personal values and ethical acumen in their daily work. Finally, learners also acquire the consulting competencies of branding, marketing, and selling, as well as building and maintaining client relationships. 5 quarter credits
PSY6730 Consultation Psychology Learners in this course evaluate current theories of psychological consultation and analyze the variety of roles and interventions that engage psychological consultants in an applied setting. Learners examine psychological consultants’ contributions to clinical, educational, industrial, and organizational settings and demonstrate the competencies required to evaluate and conduct psychological consultative services through applied case work, practice, and self-appraisal. Other course topics include consultation ethics, models of consultation research, and the dynamics of the consultant-client relationship. 5 quarter credits
PSY8761 Work Analysis and Selection This course is a comprehensive review of the major concepts, issues, and practices involved with work analysis and personnel selection. Learners gain and apply knowledge of work analysis methods, legal issues in selection, considerations in evaluating the appropriate use of assessments in selection processes, and strategies for selection decision making. Learners engage in hands-on activities to apply critical work analysis and selection principles. Pre-requisite(s): PSY6710, PSY7610, RSCH7864 5 quarter credits

What you'll learn

The PhD in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology is for students interested in the application of psychology in the workplace and other organizational settings. The curriculum provides students the opportunity to pursue coursework in coaching psychology, consultation psychology, industrial psychology and organizational psychology. Students in this specialization are interested in leader development, coaching psychology, group and team dynamics, organizational change management, systems planning, industrial/organizational assessment, employee motivation/performance improvement, strategic planning, professional development, and administrative and human resource management (including employee support services). This specialization is not designed or intended to meet licensure requirements for any licensed profession.

This specialization is designed to help you gain the following skills related to this field:

  • Evaluate and apply critical thinking in response to behavior in the workplace
  • Synthesize theoretical and research findings from the discipline of I/O psychology
  • Evaluate ethical principles and standards of psychology to academic and professional activities
  • Examine, respect and respond to individual differences and diversity in the practice of I/O psychology
  • Communicate psychological concepts effectively, using the professional standards of the discipline

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career opportunities.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the phd in psychology cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

  • Based on the quarter system; 1-3 courses per 10-week quarter
  • 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
  • Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
  • Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$555  per credit, 72  coursework credits, 24 max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$555 Per quarter credit

72 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

Dissertation

$2,780 Per quarter

Per quarter

Resource kit fee

$175 Per quarter

Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, and other instructional materials.

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors, including:

  • Academic performance
  • Complexity of your dissertation
  • Number of quarters spent working on practicum
  • Prior coursework
  • Scholarships and finances
  • Unexpected life events
  • Employer and/or military benefits

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost Scenarios

Cost Scenarios Table

Complete each dissertation milestone at the pace of the fastest 25% of students.

Coursework: $555/credit

12 quarters

$37,609.00

Dissertation: $2,780 per quarter

5 quarters

$13,900.00

Subtotal

$51,509.00

Est. Scholarship Savings*

$-5,000.00

Est. Subtotal with Scholarship Savings*

$46,509.00

Resource Kit fee: $175

12 quarters

$2,100.00

Application fee:

$0

$48,609.00

Cost Scenarios Table

Complete each milestone at the pace of the median 50% of students.

Coursework: $555/credit

12 quarters

$37,609.00

Dissertation: $2,780

6 quarters

$16,680.00

Subtotal

$54,289.00

Est. Scholarship Savings*

$-5,000.00

Est. Subtotal with Scholarship Savings*

$49,289.00

Resource Kit fee: $175

12 quarters

$2,100.00

Application fee:

$0

$51,389.00

Cost Scenarios Table

Complete each milestone at the pace of the slowest 75% of students.

Coursework: $555/credit

12 quarters

$37,609.00

Dissertation: $2,780 per quarter

8 quarters

$22,240.00

Subtotal

$59,849.00

Est. Scholarship Savings*

$-5,000.00

Est. Subtotal with Scholarship Savings*

$54,849.00

Resource Kit fee: $175

12 quarters

$2,100.00

Application fee:

$0

$56,949.00

*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

$5K toward your doctorate

Apply for a $5K scholarship Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details .

Employer & association discounts

If your employer or organization is a Capella network partner, you may be eligible for a discount. Ask your employer what offers are available.

10% military discount 

Capella offers a tuition discount to active-duty service members, guard and reserve members, veterans, their spouses* and dependents. *Starting in July, spouses of veterans can now benefit from a 10% discount on eligible certificates, master’s and doctoral programs and a 15% discount on eligible bachelor’s programs.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

How to apply

What are the phd in psychology admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

  • Admission application – no application fee required
  • A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
  •  Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
  • A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International student requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

  • Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
  • Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff and online resources along the way.

Professional doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These specialists can provide details about your chosen doctoral program. They help you understand the differences among specializations and help you identify which is the best fit for you. They can also help you with the admissions process.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed counseling sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

Doctoral Journey

What’s it like to be a doctoral student?

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.

Helping Professions Guide

Helping Professions Program Guide

Explore paths and programs that leverage your unique interests to help build a better world.

Career exploration

What can you do with an phd in psychology, industrial/organizational psychology.

Your education can help you reach your personal and professional goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

Related job titles to explore*

  • Behavioral scientist
  • Data analytics manager
  • Director of human resources
  • Director of organizational development
  • Employee relations manager
  • Human resources business partner
  • Human resources recruitment and placement specialist
  • Learning and development program manager
  • Psychology professor

Employment settings to explore*

  • Administrative management and general management consulting services
  • Colleges, universities and professional schools
  • Employment placement agencies
  • Executive offices
  • Other general government support
  • Research and development in the social sciences and humanities

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals. Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Understanding your target employers’ particular requirements is key in deciding on a doctoral program.

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phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

Psychology (PhD) – Industrial and Organizational

Program at a glance.

  • In State Tuition
  • Out of State Tuition

Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.

U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges - Most Innovative 2024

The Industrial and Organizational Psychology track in the Psychology PhD program develops competency through research and training for the application of psychological principles to organizations. The degree is patterned on the scientist-practitioner model of the American Psychological Association (APA). Program graduates are involved in many issues of critical importance to society, including fairness in the selection and treatment of employees, the creation of work environments that maximize the satisfaction and productivity of employees, and the study of technological influences on human performance. The doctoral program provides students with training consistent with the scientist-practitioner model. A key assumption of the program is that every graduate must be a highly competent scientist who can contribute to both the science and practice of the discipline.

You can view our Industrial and Organizational Psychology Doctoral Program Handbook in the link above.

The Psychology PhD program in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (I/O) requires four to five years of full-time study beyond the baccalaureate and three to four years beyond the master's. The first few years are devoted to course work and the final year to the doctoral dissertation.

All students are required to complete a Master of Science (MS) degree “along-the-way” that includes 38 credit hours and a thesis. This requirement can be waived by the program director for students entering the doctoral program with a master's degree based on courses taken and the quality of the thesis completed at the previous institution.

The I/O program requires a minimum of 75 credit hours of graduate study for students who enter the program with a baccalaureate degree. The nature of this study is determined by the I/O Area Program Committee.

Total Credit Hours Required: 75 Credit Hours Minimum beyond the Bachelor's Degree

Application Deadlines

  • International

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University of central florida colleges.

phd programs in industrial organizational psychology

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Enter your information below to receive more information about the Psychology (PhD) – Industrial and Organizational program offered at UCF.

Program Prerequisites

Bachelor's or master's degree in Psychology or another allied area.

Evidence of successful completion of undergraduate courses in statistics and in the general area of experimental psychology.

Degree Requirements

I/o area courses.

  • INP6005 - Overview of Research in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (3)
  • INP7214 - Industrial Psychology I (3)
  • INP7310 - Organizational Psychology I (3)
  • INP7081 - Professional Issues in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (3)
  • PSY7315 - Psychometric Theory and Practice (3)
  • PSY7217C - Advanced Research Methodology I (4)
  • PSY7218C - Advanced Research Methodology II (4)
  • PSY7219C - Advanced Research Methodology III (4)
  • INP7071 - Research Methods in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (3)

Psychology Field Courses

  • SOP5059 - Advanced Social Psychology (3)
  • EXP6506 - Human Cognition and Learning (3)

Research Courses

  • Earn at least 6 credits from the following types of courses: INP 6933 - Seminar in Industrial and Organizational Psychology 3 Credit Hours (taken twice) or INP 6971 - Thesis 3 Credit Hours (taken twice)

Teaching Experience

  • EXP6939 - Teaching Seminar (3 - 99)
  • All students must successfully teach a minimum of one undergraduate course as instructor of record prior to completing the I/O Psychology PhD degree. Fulfillment of the Teaching requirement involves first taking the UCF College of Graduate Studies online and face-to-face GTA Training and EXP 6939 - Teaching Seminar.

Elective Courses

  • Students must select five elective courses. These courses must be approved by the student's major adviser and the program director. The available elective courses include, but are not limited to the courses listed below.
  • MAN6311 - Advanced Topics in Human Resources Management (3)
  • MAN7207 - Organization Theory (3)
  • MAN6385 - Strategic Human Resources Management (3)
  • INP6605 - Training and Team Performance (3)
  • INP6215 - Assessment Centers and Leadership (3)
  • INP6058 - Job Analysis and Performance Appraisal (3)
  • INP6318 - Recruitment, Placement and Selection (3)
  • INP6933 - Seminar in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (3)
  • INP 6933 - Seminar in Industrial and Organizational Psychology: 3 Credit Hours (may be taken up to 6 times for credit)

Dissertation

  • Earn at least 15 credits from the following types of courses: PSY 7980 - Doctoral Dissertation

Candidacy Examination

  • After completing all required courses, students must pass all four sections of the Candidacy Examination. This is a written examination covering the content of the field and are graded by the I/O faculty. Candidacy Examinations may be taken a maximum of two times. Failure to pass the examination will result in the student being dismissed from the program.

Admission to Candidacy

  • The following are required to be admitted to candidacy and enroll in dissertation hours: Completion of all course work, except for dissertation hours. Successful completion of the candidacy examination. The dissertation advisory committee is formed, consisting of approved graduate faculty and graduate faculty scholars. Submittal of an approved program of study.

Independent Learning

  • Given the nature of graduate training and the pursuit of a doctoral degree, graduate students in industrial and organizational psychology are expected to engage in independent learning throughout their graduate career. The completion of the doctoral dissertation is an example of independent learning in which all graduate students participate. In addition, a master's thesis or other research projects will be undertaken by the students from the first year on. To facilitate this process, students are expected to attend weekly program-sponsored research presentations during the fall and spring semesters and will be required to give at least three of these presentations prior to graduation.

Grand Total Credits: 75

Application requirements.

Please select one of the options below:

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What is industrial and organizational psychology?

Industrial and organizational psychology is an ever-changing branch of psychology that focuses on improving the overall experience of workplace dynamics. Learn more about the career paths available to industrial-organizational psychologists and the online degrees that can prepare you for the field.

The careers available to industrial and organizational psychologists

Industrial and organizational (I-O) psychologists can explore careers across various work settings, including private corporations, government agencies, consulting firms and academic institutions. Your role could focus on applying psychology principles towards problems within human resources, administration, sales or marketing. You may also work directly with upper management to restructure and optimize processes in the workplace. Some of the common career paths include:

  • Compensation and benefits analyst
  • Employee development specialist
  • Executive coach
  • Human resources manager
  • Market analyst
  • Performance improvement specialist
  • Policy officer
  • Project manager
  • Staffing and recruiting manager
  • University professor

The opportunities in this field are broad, so when you’re searching for a career in I-O psychology, avoid concentrating on specific job titles. Instead, you should direct your search towards your level of education, skills, personal interests and preferred industries.

The skills and experience needed for a career in I-O psychology

A career in this field requires a mix of both hard and soft skills to effectively address workplace issues and improve organizational operations.

Important hard skills emphasize analytical abilities, such as interpreting data, proficiency in statistical analysis and critical thinking. Being confident in your knowledge of research methodologies and presenting solutions for complex issues is also very important.

In addition, you’ll also need interpersonal soft skills to successfully manage employee relations. Some of these skills include relationship-building, conflict resolution, empathy and active listening. If you’re in a I-O psychology management role, you’ll need to be skilled in project management, attention to detail, adaptability and time management.

Is organizational psychology and I-O psychology the same thing?

The fields of organizational psychology and industrial-organizational psychology share many similarities, including the overall goal to continually improve the workplace environment.

  • Organizational psychology takes a more personal approach by engaging directly with employees and developing solutions based on human behaviors.
  • I-O psychology takes an analytical approach focused on identifying trends and collecting organizational data to implement changes.

Earn your I-O psychology bachelor’s or master’s concentration online with Arizona State University

Given the broad and varied career opportunities in this field, the necessary experience and educational backgrounds are equally as diverse. When pursuing a career in I-O psychology, you should choose a career path based on your personal interests and then research the specific educational requirements.

Typically, for any career in I-O psychology, you’ll need to complete an undergraduate degree in a related field. ASU Online offers both a Bachelor of Arts in psychology with a concentration in industrial and organizational psychology and a Bachelor of Science in psychology with a concentration in industrial and organizational psychology .

  • The BA program is a better fit if you’re interested in the roles that are centered around people or services such as human resources.
  • The BS program is more research-oriented and prepares you for the positions that emphasize data analysis and statistics.

Additionally, if you’re looking to upskill and advance your career leadership roles in human resources, business, management and more, an online master’s in I-O psychology can help you reach your goals.

Everything you need to know about ASU Online classes and degree programs

We’ve compiled what you need to know about online classes and degree programs at Arizona State University. Read on to learn all about what to expect from the ASU Online learning experience.

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The Impact Of An Industrial-Organizational Psychologist On Employee Well-Being And Productivity

In a fast-paced professional world, employee well-being can be an increasingly significant factor in organizational success. Companies often look for ways to boost productivity and ensure employee well-being, but finding effective strategies can be challenging. Some leaders seek to address this dual challenge with psychology.

Industrial-organizational psychologists provide a balanced solution for organizations by focusing on business outcomes and employee well-being. Their expertise may help companies create productive work environments supporting mental health. Explore the role of industrial-organizational psychologists in promoting employee well-being and how they benefit organizations.

Understanding industrial and organizational psychology

Based on the 2023 Work in America Survey by the American Psychological Association, 92% of workers think it's important for organizations to prioritize their emotional and psychological welfare.

Industrial-organizational psychology, often abbreviated as IO psychology, bridges the gap between psychological principles and workplace practices. This field focuses on understanding human behavior in professional settings, intending to improve employee well-being and organizational performance.

An industrial organizational psychologist, often beginning their career path with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field before pursuing a master's degree or doctoral degree, employs scientific research methods to study workplace behavior, identify training needs, and develop strategies that foster a positive work environment. Their advanced degree gives them the expertise to address complex workplace challenges and implement training programs that align with business goals.

By recognizing the distinct dynamics of each organization, these professionals can customize their methods to suit specific needs. Industrial-organizational psychologists have diverse responsibilities, including performing employee assessments, encouraging organizational growth, and organizing HR functions. They frequently design and implement training initiatives, evaluate employee performance, and pinpoint elements that drive workplace motivation. Through their efforts, IO psychologists help organizations create environments where employees can thrive, leading to better outcomes for individuals and organizations.

Boosting productivity

Some organizations may be concerned about productivity, and industrial-organizational psychologists can be uniquely positioned to improve it. IO psychologists can develop strategies that enhance productivity and drive organizational success by understanding the factors that influence employee performance.

IO psychologists can boost productivity through employee training and development. By identifying training needs and developing targeted training programs, these professionals ensure employees have the skills and knowledge to perform their jobs effectively. These programs can improve individual performance and contribute to the organization's overall success.

In addition to training programs, IO psychologists may optimize work processes and systems. Streamlining operations can involve analyzing workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and developing strategies to streamline operations. Organizations may reduce wasted time and resources by making work processes more efficient, leading to improved productivity and profitability.

Productivity often hinges on employee motivation. IO psychologists research the elements that influence motivation in the workplace and devise methods to enhance them. Strategies may range from implementing incentive programs to fostering a positive work culture that promotes commitment and engagement. Organizations can keep employees engaged and productive by recognizing motivational drivers.

Supporting organizational development

Industrial-organizational psychologists may impact organizational development. This field involves improving organizational effectiveness through planned interventions and strategies. IO psychologists can develop tailored approaches that drive positive change by understanding each organization's unique needs and challenges.

IO psychologists can support organizational development through change management. This process involves helping organizations navigate transitions, such as mergers, acquisitions, or restructuring. By providing guidance and support, IO psychologists ensure that these changes are implemented smoothly and with minimal disruption to employees.

In addition to change management, IO psychologists focus on leadership development. Effective leadership can contribute to organizational success, and IO psychologists work with organizations to identify and develop future leaders. Development can involve projects like leadership training programs, coaching, and mentoring. By developing strong leaders, organizations can ensure they are well-positioned to achieve their goals.

Another aspect of organizational development is succession planning. IO psychologists help organizations identify key roles and develop plans to ensure capable and qualified individuals fill these roles. Succession planning involves assessing current talent, identifying gaps, and developing strategies to address them. By planning for the future, organizations may ensure they are prepared to meet their long-term goals.

Workplace diversity and inclusion

A workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion is often more productive and innovative. IO psychologists can be instrumental in designing and implementing strategies to enhance diversity and build an inclusive environment. Focusing on these aspects may enable organizations to benefit from varied perspectives and experiences, potentially resulting in more inventive solutions and improved decision-making.

IO psychologists often work closely with human resources to develop policies and practices that support diversity and inclusion. This work involves creating recruitment strategies that attract diverse candidates and implementing training programs that raise awareness about unconscious biases and promote cultural competence. These programs help employees understand and appreciate the value of diversity, fostering a more inclusive and respectful workplace.

Assessing organizational behavior may also promote diversity and inclusion. IO psychologists study how different groups interact within the organization and identify barriers to inclusivity. This research may help them develop targeted interventions that address specific issues, such as discriminatory practices or lack of representation in leadership positions.

Employee testing and selection processes are also areas where IO psychologists can make an impact. Creating fair and impartial tests provides equal opportunities for candidates from all backgrounds. These efforts foster fairness and aid in assembling a diverse workforce with varied cultural, gender, and experiential representations.

Furthermore, fostering a culture of inclusivity can involve ongoing efforts to support all employees, especially those from underrepresented groups. IO psychologists work on creating mentorship and sponsorship programs that help minority employees advance in their careers. These initiatives provide guidance, support, and opportunities for professional growth, contributing to a more equitable workplace.

Enhancing employee well-being

Employee well-being can determine organizational success. Studies show that when employees are content with their work environment, their productivity tends to improve . Industrial-organizational psychologists enhance well-being by addressing numerous factors that affect employees' health and happiness.

One way IO psychologists enhance well-being is through the development of comprehensive wellness programs. Programs may include elements like stress management, work-life balance initiatives, and mental health resources. Providing employees with these tools helps organizations mitigate burnout and increase overall job satisfaction.

Alongside wellness initiatives, IO psychologists often emphasize the development of supportive work settings. Their approach may include fostering healthy employee-supervisor relationships, promoting transparent communication, and encouraging respect and inclusivity. Addressing workplace bullying and discrimination can ensure a safe and valued atmosphere for all employees.

Employee recognition is another aspect of well-being. IO psychologists work with organizations to develop effective recognition programs that celebrate employee achievements and contributions. These programs can take many forms, from formal awards ceremonies to informal acknowledgments, but their goal is often the same: to show employees they are appreciated and motivate them to continue performing at their best.

A woman in a button down shirt sits at her work desk and gazes off deep in thought.

Support options 

For some employees, therapy may provide additional support as they navigate personal and professional stressors. However, finding time for in-person therapy with a busy schedule can be challenging. In these cases, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may be beneficial. 

Online therapy offers affordable care, making mental health support accessible to more employees. Additionally, it provides the flexibility to find a therapist with whom they can build a genuine connection. This combination helps employees receive quality care that fits their budget and the opportunity to meet with a provider outside of standard business hours. 

Research indicates that digital interventions offer a low-cost and easily scalable method for implementing psychological support in the workplace. Studies have shown that online therapy can improve mental health and reduce the incidence of clinical levels of common mental disorders among employees. Such findings can underscore the value of incorporating online therapy into workplace mental health strategies.

IO psychologists' involvement in organizational change and transition management may also benefit employee wellness. As organizations evolve, employees may struggle to keep pace with the shifting demands of their roles. IO psychologists help individuals navigate these changes by providing support and resources to improve their resilience and adaptability. These efforts promote employee well-being while ensuring that the organization continues to thrive during times of change.

Industrial-organizational psychologists enhance employee well-being and productivity. Through their expertise and scientific approach, they develop strategies and initiatives to support overall wellness in the workplace. As they continue to work alongside organizations, IO psychologists can shape the future of a workplace's culture, diversity, and employee well-being. If you’re seeking career advice or mental health support, consider contacting a therapist online or in your area for support.

  • Behavioral Psychologist Vs. Clinical Psychologist: Key Differences, Explained Medically reviewed by Nikki Ciletti , M.Ed, LPC
  • How An Educational Psychologist Can Support Learning And Achievement Medically reviewed by Julie Dodson , MA
  • Psychologists
  • Relationships and Relations

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2024-2025 Academic Catalog
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Psychology Applied to Work

Industrial and Organizational Psychology is the scientific study of psychology applied to work settings for the purpose of improving organization effectiveness and employee well-being. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, I/O psychology is expected to have faster than average growth rates over the next decade. (See Careers in Psychology below.)

Scientist-Practitioner Model

I/O psychologists employ a scientist-practitioner approach  to assess individual, group, and organizational dynamics in the workplace. They use research and data to help organizations identify solutions to problems and make positive change improvements. A bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in I/O uniquely prepares students for graduate programs in I/O psychology.

Careers in I/O Psychology

I/O psychologists are prepared for careers as:

  • Selection and Assessment Specialists
  • Succession and Talent Review Specialists
  • Leadership Development Specialists
  • Talent Management Specialists
  • Talent Development Specialists
  • Learning and Development Specialists
  • Employee Engagement Specialists
  • Human Resources Specialists
  • Organization Development Specialists
  • I/O Psychology Consultants
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychologists

Requirements

(18 credits)

  • PSYC 351 - Industrial/Organizational Psychology
  • PSYC 358 - Psychological Tests and Measurement
  • PSYC 374 - Psychology of Conflict Management
  • PSYC 425 - Organizational Psychology
  • PSYC 455 - Personnel Psychology
  • PSYC 491 - Organization Consulting or PSYC 493 - Organization Development & Change     

Note: For students majoring in Psychology, the Industrial Organizational Psychology Minor is recorded as the Industrial Organizational Psychology Concentration. All requirements remain the same.







  • Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
  • Academic Programs

With a recent 10-year re-accreditation decision from the American Psychological Association , Illinois Tech’s Ph.D. in clinical psychology offers intensive training based on the Boulder Scientist/Practitioner model and cognitive-behavioral theoretical foundations. The program emphasizes a balance of clinical practice and the understanding and conduct of clinical psychological research, generally preparing you for licensure eligibility (although licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction). Practice experiences include exposure to diverse populations. A student’s training in practice and research begins in the first year and continues throughout their graduate career. Several students each year are admitted into a rehabilitation concentration .

Clinical Psychology Program Statement Against Racism, Police Brutality, and Systematic Oppression Against Black People

Program Overview

Illinois Tech trains students from the cognitive-behavioral framework to be scientist-practitioners. You'll learn the scientific process of psychological research, and receive extensive clinical training to prepare you to become a clinical psychologist and thought leader in the field.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates typically work in universities, medical centers, and multidisciplinary clinical settings in the following roles:

  • Research/scholarship
  • Clinical practice
  • Supervision
  • Administration
  • Program Development

This program incorporates a series of substantive courses required by the American Psychological Association, in addition to research requirements, electives, and clinical training . Information on course requirements can be found in the  Graduate Bulletin .

Research training is an important aspect of your education. Here you will be educated in the scientific process of psychological research. Training begins in the first year working with faculty on their projects and continues through conducting your own research. This will prepare you to present posters and papers at conferences, which will provide valuable experience and professional contacts. Research activities are normally conducted with your adviser, but you may also work with other clinical and non-clinical faculty members. You also have flexibility to change your primary research mentor if your interests change during the course of training.

Clinical practicum experiences  will prepare you for work as a clinician and provide you with valuable contacts in the field. They also allow you to develop your clinical expertise by working in the community, reinforcing skills taught in the classroom. In addition,  an American Psychology Association (APA)-accredited internship  culminates your training as a practitioner. This year-long experience will facilitate the integration of your graduate training with valuable real-world experience. Optional participation on a variety of program committees provides an additional professional opportunity for students.

The clinical psychology doctoral program is also pleased to partner with our counseling and rehabilitation science faculty to offer a concentration in rehabilitation. This concentration includes APA-accredited clinical psychology doctoral training plus a unique emphasis for students who are interested in working with people across the lifespan affected by any injury or chronic condition that leads to disability. As of today, this is the only clinical psychology doctoral program in the nation with a   concentration in rehabilitation .

Admission Requirements

Illinois Tech's Ph.D. in clinical psychology accepts applications for fall entrance only. Each year the program typically admits five to seven students.

The psychology faculty recruiting clinical psychology students to mentor in their research labs beginning fall 2024 include:

  • Dr. Nicole Ditchman
  • Dr. Steff Du Bois
  • Dr. Arryn Guy  (joining core clinical faculty as a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Fall 2024)
  • Dr. Alissa Haedt-Matt
  • Dr. Eun-Jeong Lee
  • Dr. Nicole Legate
  • Dr. Lindsay Sheehan

Please submit your online application as soon as possible. Your supplemental material cannot be entered into our database without a completed application. All applications and supporting documents must be submitted online by January 1, 2024 .

Requirements for admission to the program include:

  • Bachelor's degree with 18 hours of undergraduate psychology, including successful coursework in research methods or statistics
  • Completed online application, including payment of application fee
  • Professional statement of 1,000 words or fewer outlining academic and career goals, academic potential, and relevant research and/or applied experience
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation, which referees will upload directly into the application system
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; transcripts must be uploaded directly into the application system. Please do not send them by mail.
  • A curriculum vitae (CV)

The clinical psychology Ph.D. program at Illinois Tech no longer requires students to submit general GRE scores.

Please do not submit any extra materials, including writing samples, thesis papers, books, etc.

The clinical psychology faculty will review all applications and then invite a portion of applicants for virtual interviews at a later date. Invited applicants will receive more information closer to the interviews.

Tuition and Student Funding

Tuition for the clinical psychology program at Illinois Tech is detailed on the Graduate School website on the  Graduate Costs and Aid  page.

Illinois Tech provides partial funding of Ph.D. students through a variety of mechanisms. Funding is typically arranged on a year-to-year basis.

Funding Opportunities

Incoming first-year clinical students have an opportunity to participate in a clinically relevant experience through Illinois Tech’s Center for Research and Service by testing children applying to the Chicago Public Schools Selective Enrollment Program. This is an assistantship opportunity with tuition assistance and compensation. There is an expectation of participation. After the first year, limited testing and supervising positions may be available with the center for students.

A limited number of departmental teaching assistantships are available each semester for graduate students. More advanced doctoral students (i.e., those who have completed the master’s degree) may have opportunities to teach undergraduate psychology courses as an adjunct instructor.

Individual faculty members may have research grants that fund student effort. Although not guaranteed, the Department of Psychology often offers funding opportunities to help cover costs of student research projects (e.g., recruitment expenditures, material costs, participant incentives).

Many clinical students work part-time in a clinical research setting for at least some of the time they are at Illinois Tech. Although not arranged by Illinois Tech, these positions are typically excellent psychology experiences (e.g., as research assistants or neuropsychology testing technicians) and are often passed down from Illinois Tech student to Illinois Tech student.

Although not guaranteed, the Department of Psychology often offers funds for student travel to conferences to facilitate the presentation of student-authored research.

Standing Program Committee Opportunities for Students

Committee work is an important component of a job description in most clinical psychology settings (e.g., university departments, clinical practices or hospital settings, and professional non-profits organizations such as the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies). For this reason, we highly encourage doctoral students to participate in several of the program’s standing committees.

Diversity Committee

The Diversity Committee promotes activities and program priorities that emphasize the integration of knowledge and practice related to respecting human diversity of all kinds, such as different ethnicities, cultures, nationalities, sexual orientations, genders, and religions (a non-exhaustive list).

Colloquium Committee

The Colloquium Committee organizes lectures and talks for students and faculty in the program to enhance professional development and education.

Social Committee

The Social Committee organizes activities in the service of promoting a sense of community and cohesion in the program.  

Ad Hoc Technology Committee

The Technology Committee facilitates the web-based presence of the clinical psychology doctoral program and other technology-driven tasks.

Accreditation

Illinois Tech's Ph.D. in clinical psychology has been fully accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) since 1982. For more information on APA accreditation, please visit  the  APA's accreditation website  or write to the address below. 

750 First Street, NE Washington, DC, 20002-4242 Phone: 202.336.5979 TDD/TTY: 202.336.6123 Fax: 202.336.5978 Email:  [email protected] g

For more information about the Illinois Tech's Ph.D. in clinical psychology, contact:

Alissa Haedt-Matt, Ph.D. Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Training Clinical Psychology Program 201 Tech Central 3242 S. State Street Chicago, IL 60616 Phone: 312.567.3514 Email:  [email protected]

Elizabeth Dougherty

Ph.D. Student Recognized for Eating Disorder Research

Clinical psychology Ph.D. student Elizabeth Dougherty is investigating the link between mental health and eating disorders.

Featured Faculty

Joyce Hopkins

Joyce Hopkins

Alissa_Haedt_Matt_320x355

Alissa Haedt-Matt

Steff Du Bois

Steff Du Bois

Nicole Ditchman

Nicole Ditchman

Frank Lane

Frank J. Lane

Eun Jeong Lee

Eun-Jeong Lee

Nicole Legate

Nicole Legate

Arlen C. Moller

Arlen C. Moller

"My experience in the Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program at Illinois Tech has been an excellent balance of training in clinical work and research design and methodology. Above all, through the program’s courses, curriculum, rigor, and collaboration with faculty, I have cultivated an enduring skill and attitude of critical thinking. This is an invaluable asset to a dynamic career as a clinical psychologist working as a clinician, teacher, program manager, or researcher."

Arryn Guy (Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Student)

Arryn Guy

Learn more...

IMAGES

  1. 2024's Best PhD Programs in Industrial Organizational Psychology

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  2. Top 10 Industrial Organizational Psychology Bachelor Degree Programs

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  3. PhD & Masters in Industrial Organization (IO) Psychology Graduate

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  5. Master's in Industrial Organizational Psychology Degrees

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VIDEO

  1. INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY: JOB ANALYSIS (2024)

  2. INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY LECTURE: WHAT IS I/O PSYCHOLOGY (2024)

  3. INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY LECTURE: LESSONS FROM EMPLOYEE TRAINING

  4. What is Organizational Psychology? How to Choose an Organizational Psychology

  5. INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY LECTURE: EVALUATING TRAINING PROGRAMS

  6. INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY LECTURE: TRAINING IN THE WORKPLACE (2024)

COMMENTS

  1. Ph.D. In I-O Psychology: Degree Guide

    Doctoral programs in industrial-organizational psychology confer either a Ph.D. or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). These programs differ in focus, course content, and training methods. The Ph.D. is ideal for research-focused students seeking careers at research institutions and universities.

  2. Best Online Ph.D. In Organizational Psychology Programs Of 2024

    Best Online Ph.D. Programs in Organizational Psychology. Liberty University. The Chicago School at Los Angeles. Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale. Adler University. 1.

  3. Top 10 Ph.D. in I-O Psychology 2020

    Website. Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1 Average Graduate Tuition: $10,600/year in-state and $22,050/year out-of-state Points: 5 The top organizational psychology doctorate program from Clemson University follows the scientist-practitioner model and follows the doctoral program guidelines set by the SIOP. Students gain experience in quantitative research techniques and design and in solving ...

  4. Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology Program Guide

    Earning a Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology takes 10-17 years after high school. A Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology takes between 4-7 years, and you must also have a bachelor's and master's degree, which typically take six years — two for the master's and four for the bachelor's degree.

  5. Industrial-Organizational

    The PSU I/O graduate program is continuously rated as one of the top five I/O psychology doctoral programs in the nation. Welcome to the home of Penn State Industrial/ Organizational Psychology. The I/O PhD program has a long history and strong culture of success as well as wonderful group of faculty and graduate students that continue that culture of success. Please […]

  6. Online PhD in Industrial Organizational (I/O) Psychology

    Doctoral Degree Coach™: A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate. Earning your PhD in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach™. Map and track milestones: Break your research down into manageable ...

  7. Best Industrial-Organizational Psychology Graduate Programs

    University of Minnesota--Twin Cities. MN. #7 in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (tie) Industrial and organizational psychologists strive to make workplaces more efficient, pleasant and ...

  8. Ph.D. in Psychology

    In our industrial/organizational psychology concentration, you will study research and theories related to organizational processes, teamwork, workplace relationships, and methods for increasing ...

  9. Doctorate (PhD)

    PhD program distinctives. The doctoral program in Industrial-Organizational Psychology is designed with a focus on the science and rigor associated with quality degrees in this field along with an equal emphasis on the practice of industrial-organizational psychology.

  10. PhD Industrial and Organizational Psychology

    Career Outcomes. UAlbany's PhD in I/O Psychology program has successfully placed students in a number of leading organizations including Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Aon Hewitt, as well as research positions at George Washington University, University Rider University and University of Hartford. Potential job titles include: Behavioral Analyst.

  11. PhD in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology

    The curriculum in this doctoral program is designed to reflect the professional guidelines set forth by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP). Note on Licensure The PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology is not a licensure-leading program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology ...

  12. Online Ph.D. Industrial Organizational Psychology

    Note on Licensure: Note on Licensure: NU's psychology programs are not licensure programs, and do not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology or counseling professional. Students in the PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program may choose a non-clinical internship. At this time, internships in North Carolina for the ...

  13. Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Ph.D.

    Saint Louis University's graduate program in industrial-organizational psychology prepares doctorate-level professionals with the knowledge, research abilities, assessment skills and intervention approaches to impact organizational issues at the individual, group and system levels to improve individual well-being, group functioning and organizational effectiveness.

  14. Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Organizational Psychology

    The Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology Doctoral Program trains individuals to be both scientists and practitioners. We believe that a strong grounding in basic and applied research skills and the theoretical underpinnings of I/O Psychology are essential for both academic and applied work.

  15. Industrial-Organizational Psychology Graduate Program

    Industrial and organizational (I-O) psychology is interested in people in the workplace and how work affects people's lives more broadly. This knowledge of human behavior in organizations allows I-O psychologists to solve workplace problems and enhance workplace well-being, fairness and productivity. Applying psychological theories and ...

  16. Online Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

    Adler University's fully online Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology is a 66-credit hour, post-bachelor's program. Program Requisites. Applicants are expected to have adequate coursework in the areas listed below. Applicants who did not graduate from Adler University's Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational ...

  17. Industrial/Organizational Psychology (PhD)

    Industrial/Organizational Psychology (PhD) - STEM Designated Degree Program. Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior in the workplace. It focuses on the assessment of individual, group and organizational dynamics and application of evidence-based principles to improve the well-being and performance ...

  18. Industrial/Organizational Psychology

    The Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology Doctoral Program trains individuals to be both scientists and practitioners. We believe that a strong grounding in basic and applied research skills and the theoretical underpinnings of I/O psychology are essential for both academic and applied work.

  19. 2024's Best PhD Programs in Industrial Organizational Psychology

    Online. Student % 100%. 2. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA. Private not-for-profit. $$$$. 1. The PhD in Business Psychology with a focus on industrial and organizational psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology is flexible to best meet your circumstances.

  20. Industrial and Organizational Psychology

    Program Overview. UConn graduate students earning a Ph.D. in psychological sciences can choose a concentration in industrial and organizational (I/O) psychology. UConn's I/O concentration focuses on applying psychological methods and principles to understanding human behavior in work settings. Students in this concentration work closely with ...

  21. Industrial-Organizational Psychology (Ph.D.)

    The industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology program at Illinois Tech is the oldest, most successful, and most respected program in the Chicago area. Through intensive training in research methods as well as experience in work settings, our Ph.D. program prepares you for a career in university teaching, industry, government, or consulting.

  22. PhD: Industrial Organizational (IO) Psychology

    The PhD in General Psychology: Industrial and Organizational (IO) Psychology degree at Grand Canyon University is designed to teach you how to study human behavior across a number of settings. This program centers on interpersonal dynamics within organizational frameworks, emphasizing the complex interplay of dynamics in workplace relationships ...

  23. PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

    The workplace is constantly evolving. Capella University offers an online PhD in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology program that equips you to lead through change by assessing and solving real-world problems, enhancing culture and well-being and designing effective organizations. You'll be prepared with the knowledge and ...

  24. Psychology (PhD)

    Out of State. $369.65 per credit hour. Learn more about the cost to attend UCF. The Industrial and Organizational Psychology track in the Psychology PhD program develops competency through research and training for the application of psychological principles to organizations. The degree is patterned on the scientist-practitioner model of the ...

  25. I/O Psychology Doctoral Program Structure

    The latter include Personnel Psychology (focusing on the current literature pertaining to selection, placement, job analysis, performance appraisal, and training) and Organizational Psychology (focusing on the current literature in motivation, job attitudes, leadership, group processes, conflict, decision making, organizational change).

  26. What Is Industrial and Organizational Psychology?

    The fields of organizational psychology and industrial-organizational psychology share many similarities, including the overall goal to continually improve the workplace environment. Organizational psychology takes a more personal approach by engaging directly with employees and developing solutions based on human behaviors.

  27. Doctoral Program

    The objectives of the PhD program are: To prepare students to conduct high quality research, to direct research by others, and to communicate research findings through teaching and writing. To prepare students for careers in academic settings or organizations that involve practical solutions to personal, social, or organizational problems.

  28. The Impact Of An Industrial-Organizational Psychologist On ...

    Understanding industrial and organizational psychology. Based on the 2023 Work in America Survey by the American Psychological Association, 92% of workers think it's important for organizations to prioritize their emotional and psychological welfare. Industrial-organizational psychology, often abbreviated as IO psychology, bridges the gap between psychological principles and workplace practices.

  29. Program: Industrial and Organizational Psychology Minor

    Industrial and Organizational Psychology is the scientific study of psychology applied to work settings for the purpose of improving organization effectiveness and employee well-being. ... A bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in I/O uniquely prepares students for graduate programs in I/O psychology. Careers in I/O Psychology. I/O ...

  30. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

    With a recent 10-year re-accreditation decision from the American Psychological Association, Illinois Tech's Ph.D. in clinical psychology offers intensive training based on the Boulder Scientist/Practitioner model and cognitive-behavioral theoretical foundations.The program emphasizes a balance of clinical practice and the understanding and conduct of clinical psychological research ...