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Top 30 Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Online for 2020

An online master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology is a practical branch of human behavior studies that prepares students for a career in various fields of industry, government organizations, and consulting organizations. The program teaches them to apply knowledge of human behavior to workplace communities leading to organizational effectiveness. It blends social and psychological sciences to understand the dynamics of organizational behavior. I/O Psychology involves the application of these sciences to resolve workplace issues facing individuals, teams, and organizations. Graduates go on to work as industrial-organizational psychologists or business psychologists.

A typical MS/MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology curriculum covers topics like Leadership Theory and Practice, Coaching and Consultation Skills, Team Dynamics, Organizational Theory and Change, Social Psychology, and Personality Development, Talent Management, Individual group and organizational behavior among others. These help students understand how people work together and how people function in the workplace. IO psychologists focus on improving employee performance, smooth functioning of the day-to-day operations of businesses, and aiding in the success of leadership efforts.

Industrial-Organizational Psychology is a growing field, and there is an increasing need for advanced training to meet that demand. The evolving workforce and dynamic global marketplace have increased the demand for trained I/O Psychologists. Organizations are looking for specialists in the areas of compensation/benefits, human resources, and training. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the employment of Industrial-Organizational Psychologists is projected to grow 13% through 2028.

An online master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology will help graduates stand out as experts with a deep understanding of how to impact workplace environments and strategically influence organizational change positively. They learn to bring about socio-cultural solutions through their study of team dynamics, organizational culture, and talent development. They learn to combine the theory and practice of psychology in this scientific study of human behavior in the workplace. The practical nature of the program trains them to improve their performance, motivation, safety, job satisfaction, and the well-being of employees.

By understanding how people work together and how people function in the workplace, IO psychologists can successfully address issues like assessment, engagement, retention, and worker productivity. An affordable, flexible, online degree program can teach one to create a dynamic, successful organization as they continue to work.

In this ranking, we have explored the most affordable online master’s in I/O Psychology programs. The flexibility of these programs allows students to balance their work, life, and studies with ease. Students considering an online master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology may use the ranking to learn about coursework, program requirements, specialization and concentration options, cost, accreditations, and admission requirements. Schools have been ranked primarily on the affordability of tuition – from high to low. We have also explored other criteria like courses offered, flexibility, and accreditations.

Methodology:

Net Price (as reported by the NCES):

  • Under $10,000: 5 points
  • Under $12,000: 4 points
  • Under $14,000: 3 points
  • Under $16,000: 2 points
  • Under $18,000: 1 point

Program Flexibility (asynchronous course delivery, hybrid options, part-time/full-time schedule, etc. ) – 1 point per item

Online Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, etc.) — 1 point per item

Accreditation: 2 points for regional, 1 point for national

Program recognition or alignment with recognized standards: 1 point for each

#30 Northcentral University

San Diego, CA

Online MS in I/O Psychology

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Points: 6

Northcentral University - Top 30 Master's in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Online

Northcentral University offers an online Master of Science in I/O Psychology that teaches students to apply scientific methods to investigate issues of critical significance to businesses and organizations. The 30-credit coursework covers areas like personnel psychology, research design, organizational behavior, and statistical analysis. Students learn to synthesize theories and principles applicable to the field of I/O psychology, demonstrate professional competencies and communication skills that they can apply to real-life situations. The innovative curriculum developed per the American Psychological Association’s Division 14 Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) Guidelines for Education and Training in I/O Psychology. Graduates go on to work as College Professors/Instructors, Human Resources Managers, Human Resources/Labor Relations Specialists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, Training, and Development Managers, among others.
Northcentral is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tuition per course: $2,628

#29 Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA

Online MA in Psychology

Pepperdine University - Top 30 Master's in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Online

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Points: 7

Pepperdine University offers an online Master of Arts in Psychology via its Graduate School of Education and Psychology (G.S.E.P.). Students get a broad understanding of human behavior and the fundamental principles of psychology that they can apply to various fields. The 48-unit coursework includes subjects like Industrial-organizational psychology that exposes them to the essential psychological theory and best practices for the sector. Students learn about organizational inquiry leading to a deeper understanding of methods and practices impacting the individual, groups, and organizations in a variety of work settings. They learn to research, apply, analyze, and explore topics like team dynamics, personnel selection, the role of emotional intelligence at work, assessment, performance management, multiculturalism, training, and organizational leadership theories. Graduates go on to excel in their work as well as pursue doctoral study in psychology.
Pepperdine is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges—Senior College and University Commission (W.S.C.U.C.).
Tuition per unit: $1,585

#28 William James College

Newton, MA

Online Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology (M.A.O.P.)

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Points: 8

William James College - Top 30 Master's in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Online

William James College offers an online Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology (M.A.O.P.) that prepares students for high-demand careers in organizational development and change management. The accelerated 11-month program grounds students in the essentials of adult learning and change and teaches them evidence-based best practices to apply them in today’s organizations in productive ways. Built on multidisciplinary concepts drawn from the psychology of human behavior, organizational development, sociology, and education, the program offers students the best practices in their interest area by combining academic knowledge and professional experience. The 30-credit curriculum includes psychological theories of individual, group, and systems-level behavior, addressing organizational challenges through assessment, diagnostic models, interventions, and evaluations. Students learn through real-world case studies and other applied projects to ensure learning is grounded in evidence-based standards of practice. William James College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Tuition per credit: $1,233

#27 Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO

M.S. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology Online

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Points: 8

Missouri University of Science and Technology - Top 30 Master's in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Online

Missouri University of Science and Technology offers an online Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology that teaches students how to enhance the performance and well-being of people in organizations through the application of psychological science. The 40-credit program is available in thesis and non-thesis options, depending on students’ academic and career needs. It offers a strong core foundation in industrial and organizational psychology, as well as statistics and research methods. Students learn to develop assessments of people for job selection and placement, learn strategies for organizational development, develop effective training programs, measure performance, and discover ways to promote the quality of work-life balance. Applicants need to hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field and have an undergraduate G.P.A. of 3.0. Missouri University of Science and Technology is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition per credit: $1,200

#26 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Chicago, IL

Online M.A. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

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Points: 9

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online M.A. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with an Applied Research Project (A.R.P.) Track. The flexible, non-licensure program is designed to provide students with strong foundational skills and transformative educational experience. In this 40-credit hour program, students gain knowledge of essential aspects of Industrial and Organizational Psychology like:

  • Personnel selection
  • Training
  • Performance appraisal
  • Leadership and Motivation.

Guided by practitioner faculty, they learn to address assessment, retention, engagement, and productivity of workers – all areas that significantly affect organizations. Graduates go on to apply their highly sought-after skills to a wide range of fields like:

  • Consultation
  • Human resources
  • Marketing
  • Leadership
  • Business
  • Government
  • Nonprofits

Students complete their Applied Research Project by combining the principles of Industrial and Organizational Psychology and consulting. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (W.A.S.C.) Senior College and University Commission (W.S.C.U.C.) since 2011.
Tuition per credit: $1,198

#25 Golden Gate University

San Francisco, CA

Online Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

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Points: 9

Golden Gate University offers an online Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology that equips graduates with the essential skills to increase productivity and improve employee relations. They learn the best practices for identifying and developing employee training, conducting market research, and evaluating internal problems. The 42-credit curriculum includes courses like:

  • International H.R.M.
  • Applied Psychological Research
  • Group Dynamics in Organizations
  • Organizational Behavior & Process
  • Organizational Development, Assessment & Intervention
  • Leadership & the Development of Managerial Excellence
  • Organizational Change
  • Executive Coaching Theory & Practice
  • Consulting Skills
  • Diversity in Organizations

Graduates are also well-prepared to assume leadership roles in industrial-organizational psychology in small, medium, and large organizations in a variety of fields or pursue doctoral study in industrial-organizational psychology and related disciplines. G.G.U. is accredited by W.A.S.C. Senior College and University Commission.
Tuition per credit: $1,090

#24 University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX

Online MS in Organizational Development & Leadership

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Points: 9

The University of the Incarnate Word offers an online Master of Science in Organizational Development & Leadership via its School of Professional Studies. Available in a flexible, accelerated format, the program is designed to enhance a student’s understanding of the fundamental practices of organizational development and strengthen the analytical skills necessary for a leader. The 30-credit curriculum covers:

Principles of Ethical Leadership

Organizational Behavior and Learning

Foundations of Organizational Development

Organizational Consulting

Leading Change

Strategic Leadership

Foundations of Organizational Research and Assessment, Interventions in Organizational Development, Applied Human Resource Management along with an M.S.O.D.L. Capstone. Graduates go on to work as Instructional Coordinators, Education Administrators, Healthcare Managers, and Human Resource Specialists and managers in other functional areas of organizational development and leadership. The University of the Incarnate Word is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tuition per credit: $1,000

#23 Keiser University

Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Organizational Psychology, MS Online

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Points: 10

Keiser University offers an online Master of Science in Organizational Psychology that prepares graduates to become thought leaders and active contributors to the field of organizational psychology. Students learn to focus on helping businesses and organizations improve productivity while achieving their mission and promoting loyalty within their workforce. The 36-credit program offers simulated field experience enabling students to practice and hone their skills as well as master theory and best practices. The fully immersive educational experience focused on real-world application of concepts and methods and covers diverse aspects of organizational psychology like human resources, personnel psychology, employee satisfaction, and leadership. Students gain a firm grounding in the evaluation, interpretation, and application of research data to improve organizational function in response to evolving challenges. Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per credit: $987

#22 Alliant International University

San Diego, CA

Online MA in Organizational Psychology

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Points: 10

Alliant International University offers an online Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology that prepares graduates to lead the business world as a manager, project leader, or human resources partner and help organizations reach new heights of success. The 50-credit curriculum includes courses like:

  • I/O and Consulting Psychology: Theory, Research, and Practice
  • Social and Personality Psychology
  • Professional Practice Meetings
  • Advanced Statistics
  • Intro to Scholar-Practitioner Model
  • Data Analysis
  • Survey Methods
  • Cultural Diversity in Organizations
  • Consultation and Facilitation Skills
  • Human Resource Management
  • Work Motivation and Productivity
  • Group Processes and Team Interventions
  • Talent Staffing and Selection
  • Training and Development
  • Practicum in Organizational Studies
  • Organizational Change and Development
  • Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues in Organizational Psychology

Graduates are prepared to excel in industries like healthcare, entertainment, hospitality, high-tech, etc. Alliant International University is accredited by the W.A.S.C. Senior College and University Commission.
Tuition per credit: $950

#21 Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT

Online MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

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Points: 11

sacred-heart-university

Sacred Heart University offers an online master’s degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology that helps students develop their knowledge, skills, and ethics as a competent and capable I/O psychologist. They learn how to help organizations increase efficiency and employee satisfaction using psychological principles and be prepared to apply their advanced knowledge to a career in business, research, and academics. The 38 credit program can be completed in one calendar year with the accelerated, hybrid format. A unique cohort-style model allows students to interact with faculty and their peers in an interactive online forum. They learn to apply a broad range of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary knowledge and skills in multicultural and global settings. They engage in evidence-based research, gain real-world experience through applied projects, and learn to use that knowledge appropriately within organizations. Sacred Heart University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (N.E.C.H.E.).
Tuition per credit: $810

#20 George Mason University

Fairfax, VA

Online Master of Professional Studies in Applied I/O Psychology

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Points: 11

George Mason University offers an online Master of Professional Studies in Applied Industrial and Organizational Psychology, which empowers students to contribute new ideas, identify the right candidates, motivate and manage teams effectively, and become valuable members of their organizations. The 30-credit curriculum focuses on understanding and applying concepts in:

  • Research and Data Analytic Methods
  • Client Communication Skills
  • Evidence-Based Practices

Through the combination of knowledge of data and analytics and research-backed methods, professionals learn to improve training and performance programs, foster a culture of innovation, establish meaningful evaluations and reward systems. The online application is ideal for professionals looking to maximize productivity and reduce expenses. Graduates go on to work in human resources and senior management positions across a wide variety of businesses.
Mason University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (S.A.C.S.C.O.C.).
Tuition per credit: $775

#19 Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO

Online Master of Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology (M.A.I.O.P.)

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Points: 11

Colorado State University offers an online master’s in industrial/organizational psychology that teaches students the essential skills to solve practical workplace issues. They learn how to use research and measurement skills and apply the principles of psychology to human resources and leadership challenges within an organization. The practitioner-oriented degree requires 38 credits for completion. It is grounded in quantitative analysis coursework that prepares students to conduct research and analyze data and drives meaningful and lasting change in organizations. They study the behavior of individuals in businesses and organizations to determine how to improve performance and productivity through practical knowledge and skills focusing on research and consulting. Students gain real-world perspectives from an experienced faculty and learn to identify training and development needs, recruit and retain high-quality employees, address complex issues like discrimination and workplace diversity.
Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition per credit: $770

#18 Johnson & Wales University

Providence, RI

Online MS- Organizational Psychology

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Points: 12

Johnson & Wales University offers an online Master of Science in Organizational Psychology that prepares students to stand out as experts in the growing field. Students gain a deep understanding of how to use team dynamics, talent development, organizational culture to find socio-cultural solutions and positively impact workplace environments. The 36-credit curriculum covers topics like:

  • Leadership Theory and Practice
  • Organizational Theory and Change
  • Coaching and Consultation Skills
  • Team Dynamics

Along with core courses like:

  • General Psychology
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Social Psychology, and Personality

Graduates go on to use psychological theories and evidence-based approaches to resolve issues in the workplace, employ a higher level of thinking to influence organizational change strategically, and employ professional communication skills to assess, explain and influence individual group and organizational behavior.
Johnson & Wales University (J.W.U.) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (N.E.C.H.E.).
Tuition per credit: $763

Featured Programs

#17 National Louis University

Chicago, IL

Online M.S. in I/O Psychology

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Points: 12

National Louis University offers an online Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology that provides students with the essential skills to solve workplace issues and maximizing productivity and employee satisfaction. The 42-credit curriculum combines content from the disciplines of psychology, human resource management, and organizational behavior, and organizational development. Students focus on human behavior in work settings and explore the science of psychology’s applications to aid in organizational development. The interdisciplinary I/O Psychology graduate program draws on expertise and subject matter from N.L.U.’s School of Business and Management and the school of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Graduates go on to work and excel in a variety of areas including business, labor, industry, public (including non-profit), community, academic, and health organizations.
National Louis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (H.L.C.).
Tuition per semester hour: $759

#16 University of Hartford

West Hartford, CT

MS in Organizational Psychology Online

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Points: 12

The University of Hartford offers an online Master of Science in Organizational Psychology (M.S.O.P.) program via its College of Arts and Sciences. The curriculum integrates theory and practice so that students can learn to lead, manage, and consult with dynamic and diverse organizations at the global level. The 36 credit program provides a theoretical framework in organizational behavior and prepares graduates to promote teamwork, manage transitions, and restructure organizations effectively. They cultivate essential skills like research design, communication, data collection and analysis, facilitation, group, interpersonal, and organizational issues. The 100% online program ranks among one of the top online Master’s in Organizational Psychology Programs. Students are prepared to apply their acquired skills and knowledge in the marketplace, pursue further graduate work, become more knowledgeable about the application of psychology to their professional interests.
The University of Hartford is accredited by the Board of Higher Education of the state of Connecticut and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tuition per credit: $705

#15 Benedictine University

Lisle, IL

Online Master’s in Management and Organizational Behavior

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Points: 12

Benedictine University offers an Online Master’s in Management and Organizational Behavior that provides students with the knowledge and expertise in the human side of the business to lead effectively in a company or organization. Available fully online in both accelerated and traditional formats, the 64-credit program provides students excellent academic preparation to lead organizations and manage change in a rapidly evolving, global business environment. They gain a solid foundation and comprehensive understanding of issues in:

  • strategic planning
  • managerial accounting
  • labor relations
  • information management
  • workforce diversity
  • change management
  • global interdependence
  • ethical leadership

They learn from professors and top national academicians who are experts in their field and teach from their own experience in organizational behavior and organization development.
Benedictine University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition per credit: $700

#14 Baker College

Flint, MI

Online MS in I/O Psychology

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Points: 13

Baker College offers an online Master of Science in industrial/organizational psychology, which prepares students to gain a strong understanding of how people think and behave and excel in human resources careers. The 36-credit program teaches them how principles of psychology can be utilized for organizational success. They learn how to leverage psychological theories, methods, and principles to help teams and individuals find satisfaction on the job, and help the entire organization succeed. The non-licensure offers them the chance to learn from working professionals who bring a real-world perspective to the classroom and teach them how to apply these principles in practical situations. Graduates are prepared to work in different areas of business, including human resources, organizational development, and employee training. Those who wish to earn their Master’s degree in significantly less time can opt for the accelerated format.
Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition per credit: $695

#13 Thomas Edison State University

Trenton, NJ

Online M.A. in Liberal Studies (MALS)-I/O Psychology

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Points: 13

Thomas Edison State University offers an online Master of Arts in Liberal Studies in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. It provides students with the skills and knowledge to manage and resolve complex workplace issues. The 36 credit curriculum emphasizes the application of psychological principles, theories, and research and combines the study of human behavior in the workplace with various situations that are encountered within organizations. It offers advanced training for professionals to facilitate organizational change to improve working conditions. The specialization covers topics like:

  • Industrial and Organizational Psychology
  • Psychological Factors in Selecting and Growing Organizational Talent
  • Unearthing and Enhancing Organizational Talent Through Psychology
  • The Psychology of Leadership, Motivation, and Teamwork

Graduates learn to create and manage work environments that lead to motivated, satisfied, productive employees.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition per credit: $668

#12 Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester NH

Online MS in Psychology-I/O Psychology

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Points: 13

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Industrial-Organizational Psychology that prepares students to change corporate culture positively. The 36-credit curriculum combines business practices and psychology to help professionals improve employee performance, motivation, and general well-being. Graduates effectively solve such work-related issues like:

  • identifying and improving employee training
  • increasing productivity by improving employee relations
  • evaluating internal problems
  • conducting market research

They learn to adapt psychological theories and methods for their appropriate and practical application in a variety of industrial and organizational settings. They effectively address the unique needs and goals and thus become an asset to their organizations. The flexible format allows them to complete their graduate degree in as few as 15 months, with two courses per 10-week term.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc. (N.E.C.H.E.).
Tuition per credit: $627

#11 Carlos Albizu University

Miami, FL

M.S. in Industrial & Organizational Psychology (Online)


Points: 13

Carlos Albizu University offers an online M.S. in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology program that prepares students to develop and apply scientific knowledge to solve workplace problems as culturally competent I/O practitioners. The 42-credit curriculum provides practical hands-on training in:

  • selection and placement
  • training and development
  • performance measurement
  • organizational development
  • quality of work life

Students learn from faculty members who are active professionals in the field and give them personal attention to foster professional growth throughout the program. They gain a working understanding of theories, research, and practice in the area of I/O as they chart their path through the flexible format. They also engage in applied research and capstone projects to add an experiential component to their training.
Albizu University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (M.S.C.H.E.).
Tuition per credit: $620

#10 Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY

Online MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology

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Points: 13

Eastern Kentucky University offers an online master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology that provides students with the critical skills needed to assess the behavior of individuals in businesses by blending academic and professional preparation. They learn to develop strategies for performance and productivity improvement within organizations. The versatile, practitioner-focused program focuses on consulting and professional development, helping students hone their analytical and communication skills while applying practical problem solving to human resources and organizational challenges. The 36 credit curriculum covers topics like:

  • organizational psychology
  • training and development
  • performance management
  • consulting and professional development

It follows the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) training guidelines and offers numerous research and field experience opportunities through the Center for Applied Psychology and Workforce Development (C.A.P.P.).
E.K.U. is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tuition per credit: $611

#9 Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE

Online MS in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

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Points: 14

Bellevue University offers an online Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology that combines the theory and practice of psychology to improve:

  • employee motivation
  • performance
  • job satisfaction
  • health, safety, and well-being

Professionals learn problem-solving, strategizing, and guiding organizational decision making to help build an engaged and motivated workforce. The 36 credit curriculum empowers students to:

  • leverage analytical tools
  • interpret statistical data
  • apply research to the workplace
  • tackle complex organizational challenges
  • provide meaningful insights in corporate settings and consulting
  • recommend effective strategies

The program integrates hands-on, applied to learn with theory to deliver a transformative learning experience. Students go on to work in areas like Human resource development, Employee engagement, Personnel selection, and succession planning, Talent management, and performance.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition per credit: $585

#8 Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS

Online Master’s Degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (M.I.O.P.)

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Points: 14

Kansas State University offers an online master’s degree in psychology with an emphasis on industrial and organizational psychology. It equips future human resources professionals with human behavioral knowledge, skills, and analytical tools to make informed decisions for their organization. The 38-credit program emphasizes the application of concepts and behavioral science methodologies to resolve the various human resource issues in organizations. Coursework includes:

Industrial/Organizational Psychology (Introductory Seminar)

Applied Research Methods

Ethical and Legal Issues: Seminar in Professional Problems

  • Personnel Selection
  • Performance Appraisal
  • Organizational Psychology
  • Personnel Training
  • a Practicum

Students learn to combine human behavior, federal and state laws, and organizational policies to create and manage positive change.
Kansas State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition per credit: $574.20

#7 Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

Online M.A. in Applied Psychology-Industrial/Organizational

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Points: 14

liberty-university

Liberty University offers an online organizational psychology master’s degree that helps students understand the intricacies of the human mind and behavior in a workplace and equips them to build more effective professional communities. The 36-credit program helps students study the human mind and behavior that affect any industry’s inner workings. The coursework includes:

  • Test Construction/Validation
  • Organizational Behavioral Development
  • Human Resource Training and Development
  • Personnel
  • Performance Management

Students learn how settings such as business, research science, ministry, and education have different effects on different individuals. The insights gained during this program help graduates excel in their work and build more successful products and services. Students can complete the online Master of Arts in Applied Psychology degree in under two years.
Liberty University is accredited by S.A.C.S.C.O.C.
Tuition per credit: $565

#6 California Southern University

Costa Mesa, CA

Online MS in Psychology-I/O Concentration

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Points: 14

California Southern University offers an online Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology with an Industrial and Organizational Psychology Concentration. The 42-credit program is designed for students who are keen to pursue a strong theoretical and research foundation in psychology. A strong emphasis on scientific research and obtaining practical experience in a non-clinical setting prepares students for a wide range of careers in various organizational contexts and doctoral-level studies. The academic and professionally-oriented coursework includes core topics like:

  • Counseling Theories and Strategies
  • Advanced Therapeutic Boundaries
  • Advanced Ethical and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling
  • Psychopathology
  • Group Counseling
  • Social Psychology

Courses within the I/O concentration include:

  • Industrial/Organizational Psychology
  • Culture, and Diversity in Counseling
  • Consulting in Business
  • Education and Mental Health
  • Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
  • Interpersonal Conflict in the Workplace.

California Southern University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (W.S.C.U.C.).
Tuition per credit: $545

#5 Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

Online MS in Psychology-Industrial and Organizational Psychology

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Points: 14

Grand Canyon University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology via its College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The curriculum aligns with the American Psychological Association’s standards and recommendations (A.P.A.) and prepares the next generation of I.O. psychology specialists. The 36-credit program provides students with a thorough grounding in research methods, scientific principles, and consulting techniques. Students gain advanced knowledge of human behavior and motivations, along with essential skills like:

  • conflict resolution
  • interpersonal management
  • effective communication

They also learn to produce usable data and apply their findings to enhance the workplace environment and optimize productivity and efficiency. Graduates use this desirable blend of soft skills to improve organizational effectiveness and operations.

Grand Canyon University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (H.L.C.).
Tuition per credit: $530

#4 Touro University Worldwide

Los Alamitos, CA

Online MA in Industrial & Organizational Psychology

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Points: 14

touro-university-worldwide

Touro University Worldwide offers an online Master of Arts in Industrial & Organizational Psychology that teaches students the application of psychological science to helping people in organizations function more effectively. They learn how people communicate and relate to one another in an organizational setting, collaborate to deliver first-class customer service, or produce quality products – all of which help them become successful managers. The 36-semester credits curriculum includes nine core courses, a capstone course, and three courses selected from your chosen concentration, which include options like:

  • Coaching and Consulting
  • Human Resource Management
  • Occupational Health Psychology

The non-licensure degree is consistent with the values and guidelines of the Societies of Industrial & Organizational Psychology, Human Resource Management, and Consulting Psychology.
Touro University Worldwide is accredited by the W.A.S.C. Senior College and University Commission (W.S.C.U.C.).
Tuition per semester credit: $500

#3 Capella University

Minneapolis, MN

Online MS in Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology

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Points: 15

Capella University offers an online Master of Science in Psychology in Industrial/Organizational Psychology that provides students with a deep understanding of workplace psychology. They learn the skills to become a valuable leader in a dynamic organization and successfully create a functional, productive, and motivated workforce. The 53 credit coursework helps them understand motivation and human behavior in a professional setting. The flexible, online curriculum covers topics like:

  • Foundations of Theory and Practice for Master’s Psychology Learners
  • Lifespan Development
  • Ethics and Multicultural Issues in Psychology
  • Principles of Industrial/Organizational Psychology
  • Psychology of Leadership
  • Consultation Psychology
  • Industrial/Organizational Psychology Practices in Human Resource Management
  • Tests and Measurements
  • Survey of Research Methods
  • Quantitative Design and Analysis
  • an Integrative Project for Master’s Degree in Psychology

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition per credit: $510 per credit (GuidedPath); $2,950 per 12-week billing session (FlexPath)

#2 Austin Peay State University

Clarksville, TN

Online MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (M.S.I.O.)

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Points: 15

Austin Peay State University offers an online Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (M.S.I.O.) program that follows the scientist-practitioner model of graduate education. Students are trained in the application of psychological principles to the workplace, built upon a foundation of research and science. The 34-credit program follows the Guidelines for Master’s Level Training set forth by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP). The flexible online program delivers the same quality of coursework, training and academic rigor, and lectures as a traditional brick-and-mortar program. Graduates develop their expertise in:

  • personnel selection and assessment
  • team performance and performance management
  • training and development
  • motivation
  • leadership

They go on to work and excel in various work settings such as private industry and government.
Austin Peay State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tuition per credit: $450

#1 Purdue University Global

Indianapolis, IN

Online MS in Psychology-I/O psychology

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Points: 16

Purdue University Global offers an online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Industrial/organizational psychology. Students learn to blend the academic tradition of psychology with the contemporary applications of science. The 75-credit also allows them to choose between a thesis or a comprehensive exam for program completion. In this concentration, they learn to explore the theories, methods, and practice of I/O psychology and apply psychological principles to the business world. They focus on the various processes that guide the individual human experience and behavior, as well as the core knowledge, theories, and research in psychology. The program emphasizes practical application and helps students gain the tangible skills necessary to make a difference and to drive change.
Purdue University Global is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (H.L.C.).
Tuition per credit: $420

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