Industrial-Organizational Psychology Overview

The Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychology Master’s Degree provides graduate students with the knowledge and skills that prepares them for jobs in consulting, business and government, or to continue their education. Reflecting a commitment to the scientist-practitioner model of graduate education in I-O psychology, the curriculum includes training in the theoretical knowledge of I-O psychology and in the application of this knowledge in work settings.

The I-O Psychology program follows a cohort model where class-work, thesis and/or practicum experiences are largely shared with classmates who are admitted into the program at the same time. 

In this program, you will enroll in three-four classes per semester, and the program of courses is mapped out so that you will fulfill your classroom graduation requirements in two years — four full semesters.

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Program Objectives

Professor seated around table with three graduate students

Graduates of this program will:

  • Be trained in the core areas of I-O psychology as recommended by the Society for Industrial-Organizational Psychology.
  • Be provided with a foundation in psychological theory, statistics and psychometrics.
  • Be exposed, through curriculum electives, to related disciplines such as management and sociology, which will broaden their perspective and further their knowledge.
  • Have the opportunity to tailor their education around one of two goals:
    • Pursue a higher graduate degree.
    • Seek employment upon graduation.
  • Develop analytical and critical thinking skills that will allow them to apply their knowledge to solve organizational problems in a variety of settings.
  • Be trained to be aware of and to respect diversity in work settings.
  • Be exposed to contemporary issues in industrial-organizational psychology.
53%

projected growth

2,500

I-O Psychologists employed

A Growing Profession

While still a small field in the United States, industrial-organizational psychology is projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations in the country. Based on estimated employment figures and projections through 2022 published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial-organizational psychology is expected to grow 53 percent.

In 2012, 1,600 I-O psychologists were employed. It is projected that in 2022, 2,500 I-O psychologists will be employed. The use of psychology is expected to increase across the nation as individuals and institutions look for help in solving or managing problems.

I-O psychologists address issues relating to workplace productivity, organizational developments and employee screening. 

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