Industrial Organizational Psychology Master's Program Guide of 2024

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Updated April 4, 2024

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

Pursuing a master's in industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology is the most important step in your journey to becoming an I-O psychologist. These graduate programs — which typically take two years to complete — provide you with the necessary skills to influence meaningful change within an organization.

Discover the best master's degrees in industrial-organizational psychology in this guide. Learn about common courses, average salaries, work settings, and career advancement opportunities for I-O psychologists.

Why Get a Master's Degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology?

A master's in industrial-organizational psychology prepares you to become an industrial-organizational psychologist or earn a doctorate if you want to continue your education. You can also apply your organizational psychology master's degree in other positions.

Many organizations require I-O psychologists to have at least a graduate degree when hiring internally or as a consultant. Graduate degrees also offer you the opportunity to develop a deeper expertise and broaden your overall knowledge.

Popular Online Psychology Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The Best Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master's Programs

Read our methodology to learn more about how we rank schools.

#1 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New York University's IO psychology master's program uses small class sizes to help students learn through real-world settings and interact with corporate clients. The school notes that faculty include leaders from major corporations and consulting firms, with all instructors possessing doctorates and business experience. The program comprises 12 courses and culminates in a thesis or comprehensive examination. All courses are on campus.

The school accommodates working students, with most classes in the evenings and options for full-time and part-time enrollment. Applicants do not need psychology undergraduate degrees to apply but should have completed introductory courses in psychology and statistics coursework. Tuition is $1,999/credit.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,770
Out-of-state
$53,770
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,982
Out-of-state
$35,982
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
58,226
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

Rice University

  • Houston, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Rice University's industrial-organizational psychology master's program uses full-time enrollment for a two-year graduation timeline. The curriculum prepares enrollees to work on applied projects as part of their studies, such as medical safety, promoting inclusion, and preventing harassment. 

The program does not specify a background or GPA but requires each applicant to supply transcripts, references, a relevant writing sample, and a personal statement. Students may submit GRE scores. The program comprises 48 credits and requires a capstone project. The annual tuition is $35,000.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,070
Out-of-state
$52,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$49,279
Out-of-state
$49,279
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
8,285
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The industrial-organizational psychology master's program at the University of Central Florida is a four-semester, full-time degree with thesis and non-thesis options — both requiring 38 credits. The curriculum emphasizes staffing, organizational behavior, human and organizational performance assessment, statistics, and current issues in business and management. 

Each applicant must have a major or significant coursework in psychology and submit GRE scores from within the last five years. The program is highly competitive — it typically receives 120-130 applicants each year and accepts 16-18. In-state tuition costs $288 per credit, and non-resident per-credit tuition is $1,073.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
70,310
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Campus

At CUNY Bernard M Baruch College, the organizational psychology master's program offers primarily evening programs at its Manhattan campus and online programs. Experienced professionals can pursue an executive version of the program. The program includes 36 credits and requires a thesis or an alternative thesis as a group research project. 

The program encourages potential applicants to attend online information sessions. Each candidate must possess a bachelor's degree from a U.S. accredited school or international equivalent but does not specify GPA or other scores. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,930
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,090
Out-of-state
$20,520
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
19,969
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

University of Georgia

  • Athens, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Georgia's IO psychology master's program is a two-year program for working professionals. There are five weekend class sessions each semester at the school's campus. The curriculum emphasizes developing practitioner capabilities rather than academic research. Each candidate should have at least two years of professional experience, a bachelor's degree, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. 

The program consists of 36 credits in 12 courses and includes a capstone project in the second year. Maintaining its emphasis on practice, half of the courses are taught by faculty, with the remainder led by Atlanta-based active practitioners. The total in-state tuition is $33,696 and $58,140 for non-resident students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
40,118
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at San Diego

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Students can complete the Chicago School of Professional Psychology at San Diego master's in industrial-organizational psychology program in 2-3 years. Enrollees can opt for internship/thesis or applied research project tracks. The applied research project pathway suits students with at least three years of professional working experience. 

Candidates applying for the internship/thesis track should have minimum GPAs of 3.0, and work experience is recommended. For the research project track, applicants should have a 3.0 GPA, coursework in psychology and statistics, and at least three years of work or volunteer experience. Tuition is $1,368/credit. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,328
Out-of-state
$11,328
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,554
Out-of-state
$22,554
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
126
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#7 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

Adler University

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Adler University's industrial-organizational psychology master's programs are available only at its Vancouver, Washington campus. Students can choose from a master of arts (MA) or a master of industrial and organizational psychology. The MA option requires a thesis, and both options require participation in the 200-hour social justice practicum. Enrollees submit areas of interest and are assigned specific sites and projects. 

Each candidate should have a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 or higher GPA, a completed research methods course, and a documented history of interest and experience in social change efforts. Learners may need to complete a 12-week preparatory program before receiving full admission. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,200
Out-of-state
$16,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$40,530
Out-of-state
$40,530
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,864
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
73% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

CUNY Brooklyn College

  • Brooklyn, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The IO psychology master's programs at CUNY Brooklyn College include one program designed for group processes and organizational behavior and a track for personnel and human resources. They both use a scientist-practitioner model and prepare students to pursue entry-level positions in consulting firms, organizational development, or human resources within an enterprise. Unlike other industrial-organizational psychology master's programs featured in this guide, these degrees suit recent graduates and those interested in entry-level roles.

Each applicant should have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 or higher, at least 12 credits in psychology, and courses in research and statistics with a B or higher. New York residents pay $470/credit, and non-residents pay a per-credit rate of $855.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,930
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,090
Out-of-state
$20,520
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
15,938
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

DePaul University

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

DePaul University's industrial-organizational psychology master's program is part of a combined master's/doctoral program. The degree prepares students to pursue work in businesses, government, or academia. It emphasizes the theory and practice of personnel management, focusing on recruiting, hiring, performance evaluation, and professional development within organizations.

It requires 72 program hours and concludes with a thesis and examination, followed by another 24 credits for the Ph.D. and a doctoral thesis. The master's degree is not considered a terminal degree. Tuition is $780/credit.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,361
Out-of-state
$41,361
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,951
Out-of-state
$17,951
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
21,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program Guide of 2024

San Jose State University

  • San Jose, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

San Jose State University's master's in industrial-organizational psychology requires 30 credits and culminates in a thesis or research project. It uses the scientist-practitioner model and provides students with a broad understanding of theory, research, and application of IO psychology in various settings. It does not require professional work experience.

Each candidate must have a bachelor's degree with a psychology major or 30 semesters in psychology, a 3.0 GPA in their last 60 units, and a 3.0 GPA in all psychology courses. They must submit GRE scores, although there is no specific cutoff score. Students must also meet writing requirements through classwork or past publications of academic-quality writing, such as peer-reviewed articles.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
37,133
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

What Should I Expect from an Online Master's in Industrial Organizational Psychology?

Increasingly, employers recognize the need to efficiently find, hire, and retain employees to create a productive workplace environment. Students in a master's in industrial-organizational psychology program learn how to analyze workplace programs, assess employee performance, and address organizational development, training, and leadership needs.

  • Typical Admission Requirements

    For admission into an industrial organizational psychology master's program, you typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field. You may also need a competitive GPA and GRE score, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.
  • Time to Completion

    Most industrial-organizational psychology master's programs feature 30-45 credits and take about two years to complete. Part-time studies may be available, extending your time spent in the program.
  • Practicum Experience

    Most industrial-organizational psychology master's programs have a supervised practical component, such as a practicum or a capstone project, where you apply your learning to the field.

What Classes Will I Take in an Online Master's in Industrial-Organizational Psychology?

The courses in an industrial-organizational psychology master's program vary across schools, but most programs offer some version of the classes highlighted below.

In general, I-O degree-seekers learn about human capital management, research, data analytics, leadership development, and maximization of strengths and productivity.

Organizational Behavior

Organizational behavior examines how people behave within an organization and how to apply those findings to improve organizational performance. It includes topics like the psychology of leadership, motivation, and the formation of organizational culture and subcultures.

Methods in Human Measurement

Human measurements methods is a key topic in a master's in organizational psychology because it's the foundation for performing field research at the master's and the doctoral level. It covers research methodologies and how to analyze research.

Issues in Personnel Selection

Because staffing is key to an organization's success, personnel selection is a critical topic in an organizational psychology master's program. During this course, you will explore the psychology of recruiting and hiring staff, including theories of predicting performance and the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Research Methods & Statistics

This course covers how to design a study, collect data, understand its limitations, and different approaches to analyzing data. It covers both qualitative and quantitative data analysis.

What Can You Do With a Master's Degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology?

You can find I-O psychology professionals in nearly every industry, including private and public sectors. As a graduate, your advanced practical skills might lead you to professional practice or consulting positions in business, healthcare, and manufacturing organizations. You can also pursue jobs in academia or research and development.

With a master's in this field, you can influence organizational dynamics, impact labor policies, or tackle workplace challenges head-on.

State and Local Governments

You might use your organizational psychology master's in a government setting as a supervisor or manager in government offices, or in strategic organizational planning.

Private Organizations

Private organizations hire I-O psychology graduates for their understanding of organizational culture and employee behaviors. Organizations may look to I-O graduates to fill positions in management, human resources, and training and development.

College University

You might use your master's in organizational psychology as part of a school administration team or in an academic career path. At many schools, you can work as a teaching assistant while studying for your doctorate.

Scientific Research and Development Services

These offices may hire staff with an organizational psychology master's degree to assist with research or to lead projects.

Independent Consulting

Independent consultants use their degrees and experience for shorter-term consulting projects. They might address a specific issue, build a particular organizational strength, or help an organization manage change, such as rapid expansion.

What is the Average Salary for Industrial-Organizational Psychologists?

The average annual salary of organizational psychologists varies depending on geographical location, licensure, and whether they also earn a doctorate degree.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for I-O psychologists is $144,610 or $69.52 per hour. However, the salary ranges from $72,490-$210,030.

States with the highest employment levels of I-O psychologists include California, North Carolina, and Massachusetts. Psychologists earn the most working in local government, scientific research and development services, and at colleges, universities, and professional schools.

Career Advancement for Industrial-Organizational Psychologists

If you want to advance your career beyond a master's degree, there are several paths to help you do so.

Individuals wanting to further their knowledge and expertise as industrial-organizational psychologists may want to complete a doctorate in the field.

Doctoral Programs

Industrial-organizational psychology doctorate programs prepare you for a variety of advanced roles. But to practice as a licensed IO psychologist, most states require you to earn a doctoral degree and obtain licensure. Doctorate programs typically require 3-5 years of study, depending on whether you enroll full or part-time.

Individuals who want to work as research scientists or university professors must also complete a Ph.D. Most labs, research facilities, colleges, and universities look for these credentials when hiring.

Licensure

Licensure is a standard part of the process for becoming a psychologist. Licensure is not always mandatory for industrial-organizational psychologists because they do not diagnose and treat individuals, but some states still require it. Check with your state's board of licensing to be sure.

You can obtain licensure by earning a Ph.D. or Psy. D., completing required supervision hours, and passing a licensure exam. In addition to receiving a license, you must complete continuing education requirements to keep your licenses active and unencumbered.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Industrial-Organizational Psychology Programs

Are I-O psychologists in demand?

Yes, I-O psychology jobs are projected to grow by 6% from 2023-2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is faster than the average estimated growth of 3% for all occupations. There are 10,100 industrial-organizational psychologists in the U.S., which is fewer than other specialties in psychology.

Is a bachelor's in psychology required to enroll in a master's I-O Psychology Program?

No. While a bachelor's degree is required to enroll in a master's in industrial-organizational psychology program, many programs do not require that you hold a bachelor's in a specific subject area. Many programs do require undergraduate prerequisite classes in psychology or a related field.

Can I pursue a master's in I-O psychology online?

Yes, there are online industrial-organizational psychology master's programs that can meet your educational requirements. You complete the same coursework and fieldwork as those who attend a traditional on-campus program.

Is practical experience required to complete a master's in industrial organizational psychology?

Many, but not all, programs require students to complete at least one field experience to apply their skills and observe professionals. After graduation, you need several years of direct experience to move into a management position or to work in a consulting role.

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