Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology: Courses, Requirements, and Careers

Industrial-organizational (I-O) psychologists apply behavioral science in the workplace. I-O psychologists know how to recruit, hire, and train efficient employees who can boost productivity. They partner with companies to implement best practices that achieve organizational goals.

While you do not need a Ph.D. in psychology to practice as an I-O psychologist, a doctorate establishes you as an expert in this field. I-O psychologists also work as research scientists and teachers in academia, typically requiring a doctorate.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), I-O psychologist jobs are projected to grow 7% from 2023-2033. That’s higher than the average growth rate for all occupations. Consider a Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology for a well-paying job and more employment opportunities.

A Ph.D. in I-O psychology prepares you for careers in industry, academia, consulting, and government. Practitioners with a Ph.D. can also work in roles such as executive coach, talent acquisition director, behavioral scientist, or HR director/executive.

Many carry out I-O functions as organizational consultants. Some conduct academic or organizational research or teach at the postsecondary level. I-O psychology doctoral programs prepare experts who help businesses maximize efficiencies and profit. Organizations also use I-O psychologists to reduce conflicts, develop effective managers, and implement reward systems that motivate staff.

I-O psychologists are not mental health professionals. However, the Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) notes that I-O psychologists with a doctorate can become licensed psychologists if they meet state requirements. Visit SIOP to find information about non-clinical career options. Below we include a sampling of career paths, job responsibilities, and earnings.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), graduate tuition and fees at public institutions cost an average of $12,596 in the 2021-2022 school year. At private schools, the cost was much higher at $28,017.

How much you pay for a Ph.D. in psychology depends on whether you pursue the degree online or on campus. Some institutions have lower-cost online tuition compared to on-campus programs.

Many doctoral programs offer university-sponsored financial aid packages, including accommodation stipends and other education-related expenses. In exchange, students participate in graduate teaching and research assistantships or fellowships.

You can also explore financial aid options such as federal loans, grants, and scholarships to help make your degree more affordable.

Some I-O doctoral programs require a master’s degree for admission, but many schools do not. Typically, admission requirements for I-O psychology doctoral programs include:

Visit each program’s website for admission requirements and deadlines. Contact the university’s admissions department to ensure your application and documents are received.

Earning a Ph.D. in I-O psychology takes 5-7 years to complete. Many students enter the program with just a bachelor’s degree, which lengthens the study duration. Students entering a Ph.D. program in psychology with a master’s degree can expect to complete their doctorate much faster.

Doctoral students must complete research and a dissertation, a significant undertaking that depends on each individual’s progress. Attending graduate school full-time or part-time will also determine the duration of your studies.

Graduate school requires a significant investment in time and money. Accreditation ensures that programs meet minimal education standards established by recognized accrediting agencies.

The American Psychological Association (APA) is the primary programmatic accreditor for psychology programs. However, the APA does not accredit I-O psychology programs. According to SIOP, most members graduate from programs without APA accreditation.

Those interested in pursuing any degree should ensure that the institution they plan to attend holds accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

A doctoral program requires between 60-100 credits. Students entering the program with a master’s degree in psychology or a related field will usually complete fewer credits. Those entering with a bachelor’s degree complete foundation coursework such as organizational psychology, psychometrics, and research methods in psychology. Your I-O doctoral program may require the following classes:

I-O psychology doctoral programs may offer specializations in data science, human resource management, or international business. Explore each program’s focus and faculty areas of expertise to ensure a right match for your educational needs. You can also use elective credit to pursue these specialized areas of training.

Students will build practical expertise during the research process, which may involve business consulting, externships, and other experiential activities.

Do your research and take inventory of your academic and career goals. With careful planning, a Ph.D. in I-O psychology can be a good investment. According to the BLS, many careers that advanced I-O psychologists pursue have a strong earning potential and above-average job growth.

Your salary will depend on your career path, experience, and geographic location. Weigh the cost of your education against the earning potential to determine your return on investment.