Industrial organizational psychology master’s degree programs are offered at universities throughout the United States. These programs are typically offered through psychology departments within universities. It normally takes two years or more to complete a master’s degree in industrial organizational psychology. Increasingly more master’s degree programs in industrial organizational psychology are available online or through hybrid programs. Many programs also offer the option of attending full-time or part-time. If you are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in industrial organizational psychology, you will have alternatives from which to choose. This article explains what to expect from a master’s degree program in industrial organizational psychology, how to pursue admission, and factors to consider when comparing programs.
Overview of Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Degree Programs
Most master’s degree programs in industrial organizational psychology will include a set of core, required courses and a set of electives from which to choose. Commonly required courses will include a foundations course on industrial psychology, organizational psychology, or both covered in the same course; employee motivation; job analysis; and/or other specialized areas within the field. They will typically require one or more courses in advanced research methods and one or more courses in advanced statistics or data analytics. Elective courses may be in related areas to industrial organizational psychology, such as a course in conflict management or business communications.
Online Master’s Degree Programs
Increasingly more online master’s degree programs in industrial organizational psychology have become available in the last decade or so. Some online-only universities offer master’s degree programs in industrial-organizational psychology. For example, Capella University has offered a master’s degree in industrial organizational psychology for many years. They offer two options for online students: a guided path and a flex path option, allowing students to choose from a highly structured, cohort-based path or a self-based version. Capella is a for-profit university and has always offered online courses.
Several traditional, non-profit universities that have existing, brick-and-mortar master’s degree programs in industrial organizational psychology have added online-only options. For example, Colorado State University offers a traditional, in-person master’s degree program and an online-only master’s degree program in industrial organizational psychology. These programs may differentiate between their traditional programs and online offerings, such that the two degrees may have different names.
Online programs vary in structure and length of time to complete. Most online programs are coursework based, just like traditional master’s degree programs in industrial-organizational psychology.
Choosing a Master’s Degree Program
With so many options for master’s degree programs, it may seem overwhelming. There are literally dozens from which to choose, with programs seeming to emerge each year. There are pros and cons of each program, which are important to consider. Despite the complexity, I am sure you will find just the right program for you with some background research and thoughtful comparisons.
In-Person Versus Online Master’s Degree Programs
I would suggest that you first decide whether to attend an in-person or online program. If you can narrow down this choice, you will significantly reduce your options. Consider whether you will need to work full or part-time while completing your degree and whether work or caregiver responsibilities may affect your ability to complete your degree in person. You should also consider whether there are any master’s degree program options in your geographical area. Finally, consider your preferences about learning in an in-person format, with all of the opportunities that face-to-face interactions bring versus the flexibility that online programs offer. Once you determine whether to attend in person or online, you should look at the curriculum offered by each program you are considering.
Course Content Comparisons
Internships or Practicums
It is also important to inquire about whether each program offers internship opportunities, master’s thesis projects, and/or other enrichment opportunities. You should also inquire about graduation rates and employment opportunities post-graduation. Where do their alumni typically work? Does the program have an alumni network? Does the program have any industry connections with particular consulting firms, companies, or organizations? If you plan to enter the workforce, as opposed to continuing with your current employer, post-graduation, it is critical to know about the support and networks available to graduates of each program.
This information is especially important when earning a degree in industrial organizational psychology because it can be challenging to break into the field, and many companies simply are not aware of what industrial organizational psychology can do for them. Attending a program that has an existing network and connections in the field can be a great asset, particularly for online programs that may be less embedded in one community or geographical area.
Applying to Industrial Organizational Psychology master’s Degree Programs
After choosing one or more master’s degree programs that are a good fit for you, the next step is to gain an admissions offer from one or more of your chosen programs. The application process for each university differs, but here are some of the most common application requirements:
- Undergraduate degree transcripts
- Application form
- Application fee
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores or (some require) (check out my article about the GRE)
- A statement or essay explaining your interest in the program
- Letters of recommendation
- Interview (some require)
Application Timeline
One of the most important things to find out at the start is when the university accepts applications. Universities vary greatly in their yearly calendars and semester/term schedules. Some online universities operate year-round and have rolling admissions and intakes; whereas, many traditional master’s degree programs will operate on a two-semester/year schedule and may just accept new students in the fall semester. Here are some key questions to ask the university’s admissions office:
- When do they accept new students? Do new students only start in the fall semester?
- What is the next application due date?
- When will you receive notification of whether you have been admitted?
Application Preparation
Once you know the specific application requirements and due dates, start preparing your application.
If you must complete the GRE, you should prioritize gathering information about test-taking times and locations to ensure that you can prepare for the exam and complete it in time to submit your graduate program applications. Unfortunately, some applicants leave the GRE until the last minute and run out of time to schedule and complete the exam. Depending on where you live, there may be more or fewer test-taking locations available, so it would be critical to ensure you know what the test-taking process and timeline will be for you.
If you do not need to complete the GRE, that will simplify the application process. However, it is still important to review all application requirements and timelines to prepare accordingly. If you need letters of recommendation, that would be another area to prioritize. Often, issues arise with obtaining letters. Past professors may have left your undergraduate university or are out of the office when you reach out to request the letter. Many obstacles can arise at this stage, so prioritizing obtaining letters of recommendation is important so you can make alternative arrangements if needed.
Application Received
After you gather your application materials and submit the application, it may take several weeks or even months to receive the application outcome. Be sure to get confirmation that your application has been received. Many universities offer digital platforms to stay connected and updated throughout the application process. It is important to keep updated so you can plan accordingly. You want to receive that approval letter as soon as it is available!
Have you applied for a graduate program in industrial organizational psychology? If so, I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.
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