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Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Request InformationGet the hands-on training and insights needed to help today’s organizations build a skilled, productive, and adaptable workforce.
Next start dates
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule December 13, 2021
- Tempo Learning® Go at your own pace January 03, 2022
Transfer Credits
- Up to 24 Credits
Be a catalyst for shaping strong, resilient organizations
Employers face an array of new challenges in the 21st-century workplace. Help them respond innovatively to these challenges with a master’s in industrial and organizational psychology from Walden. Contribute to your organization’s success, effectiveness, and bottom line through coursework grounded in practical application.
Why Walden
Virtual Reality Simulations
Through Mursion, meet with “clients” in real-time VR scenarios. Practice skills in realistic situations you’ll encounter in the workplace.
Expert Faculty
Be mentored—and inspired—by highly qualified faculty who bring real-world insights to the classroom.
Develop Critical Skills
Learn about assessments. Discover how to evaluate results and deliver feedback—key skills for an I/O practitioner.
BCC Preparation
In the Evidence-Based Coaching specialization, you can pursue the academic requirements and coaching experience required for the BCC exam.
Program Savings
Course-Based: Receive your Foundations Course at no cost if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on December 13, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowProgram Details
Curriculum - General Practice
Degree Completion Requirements
- 48 quarter credits
This represents the minimum credit requirement for program completion. The number of credits for completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, contact an Enrollment Specialist at 855-643-4779.
Courses
| Course Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
The 11-week courses must be taken in the prescribed sequence below. |
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| IPSY 6002 |
Foundations of Graduate Study in PsychologyStudents in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students build a foundation for academic and professional success as social change agents. They assess the relationship of Walden's mission and vision to professional goals. They establish connections with their peers and the broader Walden community. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical-thinking skills, academic integrity, ethics, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence within the field of psychology. |
(3 cr.) |
| IPSY 6200 |
Themes and Theories of I/O PsychologyIn 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. |
(5 cr.) |
| IPSY 6480 |
Psychology of Organizational BehaviorStudents in 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. Prerequisites
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(5 cr.) |
| IPSY 6214 |
Consulting for Organizational ChangeOrganizational 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. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| RSCH 6110 |
Research Theory, Design, and MethodsIn this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography. |
(5 cr.) |
| IPSY 6755 |
Leadership and Leader DevelopmentEffective leadership requires the ability to facilitate positive change, lead others in efforts to effect similar change, and work through challenges when met with resistance to change. Students in this course are provided with an extensive overview of leadership theories. Students explore definitions of leadership, major theoretical leadership models, and contextual and situational factors related to leadership and change. Students also examine various perspectives on leadership and the role of leadership in the achievement of organizational, group, and team goals. Students engage in practical assignments and discussions, focusing on effective leadership issues and practices during the process of organizational change. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| RSCH 6210 |
Quantitative Reasoning and AnalysisStudents in this research course build core knowledge and skills for designing quantitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding data analysis and applying statistical concepts. Students explore classical quantitative research designs and common statistical tests, the importance of quality assurance, and ethical and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. In this course, students approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to calculate statistics and interpret and present results. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a quantitative research plan. |
(5 cr.) |
| IPSY 6706 |
Ethics and Standards of Industrial Organizational PsychologyStudents in this course examine the origins of professional codes of ethics and standards of scientific psychology. Topics include ethical issues in academics (research, teaching, supervision), various work settings (assessment, consulting), and ethics involved in working with diverse populations. Additionally, students are introduced to forensic psychology and ethical issues related to the legal system. Students also explore how cultural factors are addressed in various ethical codes and the implications for scholar-practitioners. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| IPSY 6754 |
Personnel Psychology in the WorkplaceIn 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. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| IPSY 6393 |
CapstoneStudents are provided with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge and skills acquired throughout their program into a practical project designed to promote positive social change in a capstone project. During this course, students work on a capstone project in which they complete a major integrative paper on a topic related to their specialization, incorporating theoretical and practical knowledge as well as social scientific research skills acquired throughout the program. The instructor may approve other capstone projects presented by students. Prerequisites
|
(5 cr.) |
| VIEW ALL COURSES | ||
Flexible Learning
| Course-based learning |
Tempo Learning® |
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|---|---|---|
| The standard, guided pace to earn your degree |
The flexible pace, ideal for some students |
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| Time | Structured schedule |
Flexible schedule |
| Pace | Deadlines to make steady progress |
Set your own pace, and speed up or slow down when needed |
| Tuition | Pay by the course |
All-you-can-learn subscription fee |
| Support | Faculty guide you through your courses as you earn your degree |
Faculty support when you need it and a personal academic coach |
| Expert Walden Faculty |
✔ |
✔ |
| Payment Plans and Scholarships* |
✔ |
✔ |
*May not be available for all programs
Admission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations: A bachelor's degree or higher.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
Tuition and Fees
General Practice
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Curriculum Component Requirements Cost amount Tuition 48 quarter credit hours $535 per quarter hour $25,680 Technology Fee Per quarter $160 $800
$26,480*
Effective February 28, 2022
Curriculum Component Requirements Cost amount Tuition 48 quarter credit hours $548 per quarter hour $26,304 Technology Fee Per quarter $165 $825
$27,129*
*Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 24 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $2,500 to $3,500.
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Progress at Your Pace. Control Your Cost.
Walden’s Tempo Learning® programs follow a subscription-based pricing format. Students are billed a flat-rate for each 3-month subscription term. All pricing is represented in U.S. dollars and is subject to change.
Program Subscription Period Tuition Subscription Period Technology Fee Subscription Period Time Frame MS in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology $2,700 $75 3-month subscription period
Effective March 7, 2022
Program Subscription Period Tuition Subscription Period Technology Fee Subscription Period Time Frame MS in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology $2,900 $165 3-month subscription period
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for this program. Our financial aid advisors can help you identify funding opportunities to help you pay for your education.
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
Find Ways to SaveProgram Savings
Course-Based: Receive your Foundations Course at no cost if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on December 13, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowGeneral Practice
Build the foundational skills needed to launch a career as an I/O psychology practitioner.
Consulting Psychology
Gain the business perspectives and specialized I/O expertise to step into the field of organizational and professional development consulting.
Evidence-Based Coaching
Prepare to sit for the Board Certified Coach (BCC) exam through 100% virtual curriculum and training.
Human Resource Management
This specialization is a blend of competencies required for both HR practitioners and I/O psychology practitioners.
International Business
Deepen your knowledge of workplace and organizational behavior to help create work environments in which employees and organizations can reach their full potential.
Self-Designed
This option is ideal if you want maximum flexibility to design a program that closely matches your personal and professional goals.
Program Outcomes
Help Build Better Organizations
With an I/O psychology master’s from Walden, you’ll be ready to confront the challenges of today’s global workplace and serve as a change agent for organizations across all industries. Explore issues of critical importance to employees, businesses, and society—such as workplace readiness, performance management, and work-life balance. Prepare for real-world practice through actionable learning and instruction from faculty who are active professionals in the I/O psychology field.
What’s the Career Impact of Earning an MS in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for industrial and organizational psychology practitioners are expected to surge 13% through 2028.1 Earning your I/O psychology master’s degree can position you as a highly desirable job candidate, whether you’re seeking a promotion or new career opportunities.
Find Your Opportunity in a Dynamic Field
With a master’s in I/O psychology from Walden, you can play a key role in an organization’s ability to compete, grow, and thrive in a changing work landscape. Potential career roles include vice president, director, manager, principal, or consultant in the areas of:
- Organizational development / effectiveness / capability
- Workforce insights
- Human resources / human resources research / employee relations
- Training and development / coaching and development / leadership development
- Selection systems
- Evaluation and assessment / testing
- Leadership research
- Applied behavioral research
You can also pursue the role of community college faculty, teaching the subjects of industrial and organizational psychology, organizational psychology, industrial psychology, work psychology, (general) psychology, management, organizational behavior, and industrial relations.
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this online MS in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology degree program.
Elevate Your Earning Potential
Earning your I/O psychology master’s degree can potentially lead to higher earnings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for industrial and organizational psychology practitioners was $97,260 in May 2018.1
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of Walden’s online MS in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology program, you will be prepared to:
- Describe behavior using current theory and research in industrial and organizational psychology.
- Articulate the uniqueness of the industrial/organizational psychology specialization including the history specific to this specialization.
- Discuss how key industrial and organizational issues impact organizations (i.e., issues such as selection, performance management, performance measurement, job analysis, individual behavior, leadership, motivation, organizational culture, work teams, and/or job attitudes).
- Explain the principles of basic research methods.
- Appropriately summarize the role of research in the field of industrial and organizational psychology.
- Apply ethical organizational intervention practices.
- Appropriately select effective organizational interventions based on empirical evidence.
- Summarize the influence of diverse populations on individual, group, and organizational behavior.
- Apply principles of industrial and organizational psychology to scholarly and/or professional activities to promote lifelong learning.
- Engage in practices that result in positive social change.
Testimonials
Being a military spouse, a traditional brick-and-mortar education was not a viable option. I needed a program that would move with me.
Samantha Farone MS in Industrial and Organizational Psychology Graduate
My Walden journey was an awakening and validation of the strength and determination that lie within.
Glynis Ilyas MS in Industrial and Organizational Psychology Graduate
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FAQ About Walden’s Online MS in Industrial and Organizational Psychology Program
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Industrial and organizational (I/O) psychology is the scientific study of the workplace. Psychologists apply science-based principles and methods of psychology to identify issues and solve problems in business. As an I/O psychologist, you will be prepared to address important issues in a range of settings, including organizations, colleges, and universities, as well as working as an independent consultant. You will have the ability to apply principles of psychology to problems in diverse work areas while becoming a catalyst for organizational change. With your I/O psychology degree, your areas of influence may include policy planning, employee testing and selection, employee training and development, organizational development and analysis, and assessment and improvement of worker productivity.
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Walden University is a CCE-approved provider of Board Certified Coach (BCC) training through the Evidence-Based Coaching specializations found in both the MS in I/O Psychology and PhD in I/O Psychology degree programs.1 By choosing the Evidence-Based Coaching specialization, you will be able to complete the required training and requisite hours required sit for the BCC examination.
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When you earn your master’s degree online, you can benefit from the same knowledge and mentorship you would expect from a traditional university, in a flexible format that allows you to better balance your personal and professional obligations. Online degree programs also allow you to complete your coursework from anywhere. It is important to note that not all online degree programs are the same. Walden University builds its programs specifically for online learning and has been a leader in distance education for more than 50 years.
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Walden University MS in Industrial and Organizational Psychology students can choose from six specializations, including a Self-Designed option. The other specializations are Evidence-Based Coaching, Human Resource Management, Consulting Psychology, General Practice, and International Business. The program with a General Practice specialization can be completed in either a course-based or competency-based format, allowing you to choose a pace that works best for you as you gain a broad understanding of the field. The Self-Designed option gives you the opportunity to design a program that most closely matches your personal and professional goals.
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There are a variety of courses you might take as you earn your degree, and the focus of your program will depend largely on the specialization you choose. However, at Walden there are some courses you can expect to take no matter what MS in I/O Psychology focus area you select. For instance, Psychology of Organizational Behavior is a foundation course in which students examine the application of behavioral theories and models in a variety of workplace settings. Students will also explore individual, group, and organizational behavior, as well as topics that center on the differences in employee motivation and job satisfaction; team building; and organizational leadership, design, culture, and development.
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