Industrial-organizational psychologists are responsible for combining the study of the human mind and behavior with the operations of a business. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, please be aware that your educational journey will be a process, as the required degree is an online Master of Industrial-Organizational Psychology to practice in this field. However, in some cases, a doctoral degree is needed, as well. Many opportunities will be available to you with your master’s degree. In addition to careers in teaching and research, you may also wish to concentrate on a certain kind of I/O psychology, such as conflict management, organizational development and consulting, or human resources management.
Prerequisites for earning your master’s degree include a bachelor’s degree in I/O psychology, or a relevant field, as well as, exceptional Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and GRE Psychology Subject Test scores. You can expect your master’s degree program in industrial-organizational psychology to take you approximately two years to complete, depending on your dedication and busy schedule. Generally, master’s degree programs in this field can be located through an online format, providing flexibility and convenience to accommodate your busy schedule. Some online programs require a thesis project; although, some do not. Each graduate program will have their own requirements.
What will you learn in your online Master of Industrial-Organizational Psychology degree program? Coursework topics include organizational development, group dynamics psychology, effective leadership, and psychometric strategies, in addition to, research methods, workforce training, and personality psychology. To assist you in your business skills, you will need to learn the fundamentals of running a business, such as economics, accounting, and marketing. You’ll also learn how to motivate employees to increase production and profits, along with, how to promote employee satisfaction and positive workplace relationships.
Your online Master of Industrial Organizational Psychology degree program will also focus on topics, such as employee evaluations, financial compensation, biases and prejudices in the workplace, in addition to, environmental factors, such as workplace temperatures, lighting, crowd control and noise levels.
Additional education is encouraged within the field of I/O psychology. Doctoral degrees are available. With an online doctorate in industrial-organizational psychology, you can gain state licensure, although it may not be required, depending on your state’s requirements. Certifications in business consulting and many other specialized subjects are offered through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). To earn certifications, you must meet internship requirements and participate in regular educational opportunities.
If you’re curious about this important branch of psychology, please see our list of the Best Online Schools for Master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology Degree Programs.