The Best Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s Programs for 2025
Explore industrial-organizational master’s programs in this degree guide and ranking. Learn what to look for in a program, what to expect, and more.
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Key Takeaways
- Top programs for I-O psychology master’s degrees include those from New York University, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College, and Rice University.
- I-O psychology master’s programs cover how to improve organizational dynamics, boost staff performance, and aid in training.
- Admission typically requires a relevant four-year degree, good academic standing, and at times, work experience.
Industrial-organizational psychologists help organizations boost effectiveness, increase employee retention, and improve productivity. The most common employers are scientific research organizations, colleges, and universities. Industrial-organizational psychologists earn an average salary exceeding $100,000.
Learn about the best industrial and organizational psychology master’s programs and what to expect in school and in your career.
Best Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s Programs
New York University
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
31%
Yes
9%
N/A
$37,332
$37,332
96%
57,335
Private
CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus
53%
Yes
51%
N/A
$11,090
$20,520
88%
19,698
Public
Rice University
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
10%
Yes
9%
N/A
$51,634
$51,634
98%
8,672
Private
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
9%
Yes
43%
N/A
$6,916
$25,759
92%
68,842
Public
University of Georgia
- Athens, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
20%
Yes
37%
N/A
$8,878
$25,186
95%
41,615
Public
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
60%
Yes
74%
N/A
$21,719
$21,719
87%
21,348
Private
San Jose State University
- San Jose, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
71%
Yes
80%
N/A
$7,176
$16,680
86%
36,062
Public
Fairfield University
- Fairfield, CT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
21%
Yes
45%
N/A
$20,034
$20,034
90%
6,289
Private
Southern Methodist University
- Dallas, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
13%
Yes
61%
N/A
$31,590
$31,590
90%
11,842
Private
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Charlotte, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
56%
Yes
80%
N/A
$4,337
$18,482
84%
30,298
Public
What to Look For in an Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s
Industrial-organizational master’s programs help learners build valuable insights into workplace psychology. They teach practical techniques and theories for improving organizational behavioral dynamics.
Curricula typically cover:
- Methods for optimizing and motivating employee performance
- How to build and manage training, development, and professional improvement programs
- Business administration from a human resources perspective
- Leadership-oriented insights into organizational change management
Some schools design curricula to cover skills and proficiencies endorsed by organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management or the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Regardless, you should always look for industrial-organizational master’s degrees at accredited institutions.
Admission requirements vary, but they typically include a four-year degree in a related field, a strong academic track record, and a compelling statement of purpose. Some schools prefer or require applicants to have one or more years of relevant work experience.
As a master’s student, you can qualify for various financial aid options, including federal aid and private scholarships.
What to Expect in an Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s Program
Industrial-organizational master’s degrees typically consist of about 30-36 credits. If you study full time, you can usually graduate in about two academic years.
Learning content generally includes a combination of applied theory and research methods. Some curricula also cover business administration and organizational development.
Industrial-organizational master’s programs typically culminate in a capstone experience or thesis. Capstone projects prompt you to display your synthesized knowledge, while a thesis involves producing an original work of research-focused scholarship.
Practical Experience Opportunities
At the master’s level, practical experiences in industrial-organizational psychology typically take the form of practicums or internships. Students secure placements through partnerships between their school and participating employers. Placements can last for a single semester or an entire academic year.
Practicums and internships allow you to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting and develop your skills under the tutelage of an experienced professional. They also double as excellent networking opportunities that may help your future job search.
Research Opportunities
Many industrial-organizational master’s programs involve multiple courses in research methods and statistical analysis. Some also have thesis options or requirements, which allow you to design and perform your self-directed research.
Depending on the school, you may contribute to ongoing studies or research programs and work alongside faculty members or external researchers.
In some cases, research participation could lead to opportunities to earn publication credits. You might also be invited to join presentations at industry events or conferences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s Programs
With an industrial-organizational master’s degree, you can pursue careers in human resources, organizational management, or business administration. Some roles involve extensive interpersonal interactions, while others have a stronger research or analytical focus.
