View our EdD Early Childhood specialization completion requirements
Minimum degree requirements:
60 quarter credits
- Core courses (50 cr.)
- Capstone (10 cr.)
Master's degree in this field
Master's degree in another field
Dissertation only
Curriculum and Completion Requirements
Choose this track if you have a master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology or a related psychology master’s degree.
Featured PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology Courses
Foundations of Graduate Study in Psychology
Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. They assess the relationship of mission and vision to professional goals, and they develop a program of study, a professional development plan, and strategies for online success. Students also explore resources used throughout the program, such as the online Walden University Library. They engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence.
Research Foundations
Students in this course examine and receive support for student readiness regarding the use of quantitative and qualitative research approaches. They study research fundamentals, including the distinction between social problems and research problems, the functions of research problems versus research purpose statements, and the role of theory and conceptual framework in informing research. Students examine quantitative and qualitative concepts central to research methods, design, and analysis. They also study how research design, methods, and analyses properly align for both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Students demonstrate their knowledge by creating two research outlines, using quantitative and qualitative approaches, which they develop throughout the course. They determine appropriate conditions for the use of mixed-methods approaches and differentiate between types of mixed-methods research designs. Students engage in pre- and post-assessments of skills and knowledge.
I/O Tests and Measurement
Students in this course study in-depth measurement theory and the tests used in organizational settings. Included are a comprehensive examination of psychometric properties used to develop and evaluate these instruments, including classical test theory, item response theory (IRT), and item forensics approaches to testing. Topics include normative sampling and standardization, reliability and validity, test score interpretation, and test development. Students also address ethical, legal, and sociocultural issues, including cultural bias and fairness. Professional standards for testing provide a foundation for the course.
Psychological Motivation at Work
Participants in this course study in depth major topics in micro-level organizational behavior. Accountability, organization citizenship behaviors, forms of organizational attachment, motivation, goal theory, and issues of equity and justice will be covered.
Personnel Psychology in the Workplace
In this course, students explore the application of psychological theory and practice to human resources activities in organizations. They examine related topics, including job analysis and design, employee selection and placement, training and development, performance management and appraisal, and legal and ethical considerations in human resources management. Through a group project case study, students research, assess, and share critical issues in personnel psychology. They also demonstrate their ability to conduct effective research and review literature through a final research paper on a topic of interest related to course content and theory.
Curriculum and Completion Requirements
Choose this track if you hold a master’s degree in an academic discipline other than psychology or a bachelor’s degree.
Featured PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology Courses
Foundations of Graduate Study in Psychology
Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. They assess the relationship of mission and vision to professional goals, and they develop a program of study, a professional development plan, and strategies for online success. Students also explore resources used throughout the program, such as the online Walden University Library. They engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence.
Survey Research Methods
An in-depth study of a range of survey methods administered via in-person interview, self-report, phone interview, and Internet administration is introduced in this course. Topics include survey design, administration, analysis, and addressing sources of bias. Students also review theoretical and empirical research on question and questionnaire effects. Students prepare through the practice of writing questions and designing questionnaires, both in general and in light of existing research.
Consulting for Organizational Change
Organizational and professional development (OPD) professionals promote and implement organizational change by using fundamental techniques of change management. Students in this course examine and apply these tools, including consulting competencies, approaches, and organizational change models to learn the skills of an OPD consultant. Students explore methods for accelerating individual, group, and organizational performance through consulting, coaching, and change management. They also explore related topics, such as organizational assessment; team development; strategic planning; group dynamics; power, politics, and influence; leadership; and conflict management. Students apply course concepts to the assessment of an organization and the development of strategies to address identified needs for change.
Themes and Theories of I/O Psychology
In this course, students are introduced to theories, research, and themes that form the tenets of psychology. Basic theoretical models will be reviewed, including psychodynamic, cognitive, developmental, social learning/socio-cognitive, behaviorist, learning and motivation, systems, biopsychosocial, and gender theories. Theories encompassing diverse populations, including cross-cultural and feminist theories, will also be examined. Students will critically examine the strengths and limitations of these theories and their utility in the field of psychology. Contemporary themes in psychology will be explored, with an emphasis on application of theories designed to effect positive social change.
Psychology of Organizational Behavior
Students taking this course examine the application of behavioral theories in organizational settings. The focus is on individual, group, and organizational behavior. Topics include individual differences in employee motivation and job satisfaction, group development, team building, organizational leadership, and organizational design, culture, and development. Students acquire a broad knowledge base in organizational psychology, its research, and its applications.
PhD Completion Program
If you have completed your PhD coursework but not your dissertation, Walden’s PhD completion program is designed to help you finish your degree. A structured pathway, expert faculty, and award-winning learning Doctoral Degree Coach® help keep you on track.
Featured PhD in I/O Psychology Completion Program Courses
Preparing for Capstone
Welcome to your final ascent on the doctoral journey! This course celebrates your expertise and supports you in clarifying goals, building a scholarly network, and crafting a meaningful research plan. You’ll learn to articulate research problems, review literature, identify gaps, and design impactful studies, all while receiving encouragement and practical feedback from faculty and peers. You will focus throughout the course on building your personalized “My Academic Plan.” You’ll gain the confidence, network, and resources to complete your PhD and to advance the greater public good.
Dissertation
Doctoral students in this course are provided with the opportunity to integrate their Program of Study into a research study through which they explore a specific area of interest. Students complete the dissertation with the guidance of a chair and committee members through a learning platform classroom in which weekly participation is required. Students work with their dissertation chair to write the prospectus, complete an approved proposal (the first three chapters of the dissertation), complete an application for Institutional Review Board approval, collect and analyze data, and complete the dissertation. During the final quarter, students prepare the dissertation for final review by the university and conclude with an oral defense of their dissertation. Once students register for IPSY 9000, they are registered each term until successful completion of the dissertation for a minimum of four terms.
Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until the completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.
To complete a dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.
Admissions
Work one-on-one with an Enrollment Specialist who’ll guide you through every step—from choosing the right program to paying for your education.
Streamlined Admissions Process
Are you ready to take a major step forward in your academic and professional journey? To help you get started, we’ve simplified the PhD in Human Services online application process to include:
No application fee
Easy credit transfer
No essay or SAT/ACT requirement
View Admission Criteria
Admission Requirements
Learning Tracks:
Depending on your previous educational experience, you will enter the PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program through one of two degree completion tracks.
Choose:
- Track 1 if you have a master's in I/O psychology or related field.
- Track 2 if you have a bachelor’s degree1 or a master’s in an unrelated field
(Note that you do not need to take the GMAT or GRE to apply for this program).
General Admission Requirements: To be considered for this doctoral program, you must have either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree from an accredited school and meet the general admission requirements. All applicants must submit a completed online application and transcripts. More information for international applicants.
Tuition and Scholarships
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we are here to support you along your journey. Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid for those who apply and qualify.
Tuition Breakdown
Walden offers tuition savings options that can make your goals more attainable. Discover savings opportunities through:
Tuition savings
Transfer credits
Grants and scholarships
Program Savings
Program Savings
Receive up to a $5,000 grant when you start an eligible PhD program.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 60 quarter credits | $645 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $38,700^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–125† quarter credits | $645 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,900–$80,625* | |
| Program Fee | $185 per quarter | $1,850–$5,920* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) | $5,680–$6,080 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.5-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $59,130 | $131,325*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.5-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 90 quarter credits | $645 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $58,050^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–115† quarter credits | $645 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,900–$74,175* | |
| Program Fee | $185 per quarter | $2,405–$5,920* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) | $5,680–$6,080 | |
| Estimated Range: | 3.25-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $79,035 | $144,225*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 3.25-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 3.25-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
| Curriculum | Required Quarter Credits (min) | Required Quarter Credits (max) | Cost per Quarter Hour | Total (min) | Total (max) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 5 | 5 | $645 | $3,225 | $3,225 |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20 | 55 | $645 | $12,900 | $35,475 |
| Program Fee | $185 | $925 | $2,220 | ||
| Estimated Range: | 15 months | 36 months | |||
$17,050* | $40,920* |
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.