Industrial/organizational psychology is a specialized area that applies principles and theories of psychology to organizations. These industrial psychologists understand how human behavior, or employee behavior, merges with job performance levels. They use labor statistics from various research methods to ultimately improve work life and job success. Professionals with I/O psychology training are in-demand by employers who want to increase employee productivity and satisfaction, develop teams, offer training programs and improve workplace conditions. These factors can have a direct impact on an organization’s success and profitability. They also impact organizational development and organizational performance.
Industrial psychology is a great way to increase job satisfaction. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for psychologists is expected to increase by 8% through 2030. This growth is expected to add 13,500 jobs in the field, which includes industrial/organizational psychologists. The median pay for a psychologist in 2020 was $82,180. In most cases, a master’s in industrial/organizational psychology is a terminal degree for the field but a bachelor’s degree may be enough for some new hires. However, the highest degree will offer better career advancement. The advanced training programs provided allow students to apply principles of psychology to:
- improve employee satisfaction
- improve job satisfaction for business owners
- create meaningful incentives
- increase performance management
- motivate employees
- provide appropriate professional development opportunities
We created this ranking of the top organizational/industrial psychology master’s programs online to showcase some of the best programs in the country. We developed our initial list of programs from data we obtained from the National Center for Education Statistics and stuck to defining key qualifications to find the best of the best. We searched industrial-organizational psychology degree programs with an online option. We narrowed the list to include only accredited schools that offer a significant majority of their I/O coursework online. We then applied a ranking system. Where there are ties, the school with the lower average graduate tuition rate is favored. Information about each of the schools was found on their university website.
Ranking is as follows:Student/Faculty ratio:
- 13:1 or less- 3 points
- 14:1 to 19:1- 2 points
- 20:1 and above- 1 point
Average Graduate Tuition Rate Per Year:
- Less than $13,000- 3 points
- $13,000 to $20,000- 2 points
- Greater than $20,000- 1 point
25. University of Southern California – Los Angeles, California
Online Master of Science in Applied Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $47,880/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 9:1Points: 4
The University of Southern California features a unique online master’s in applied psychology focused on consumer and organizational psychology. This program is a great choice for rising professionals in areas like marketing, talent management, and organizational development. Courses are offered 100% online and students can earn their degree in just 16 months. Elective course offerings include:
- Group Dynamics and Leadership
- Psychology of Interactive Media
- Cross-cultural Psychology in Applied Settings
Students benefit from consistent support from dedicated enrollment advisors and faculty who are actively working in the field and can offer insight from their organizational research. An optional summer internship in Dublin is available for students with an interest in international I/O psychology.
24. Adler University – Chicago, Illinois
Online Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $36,267/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 12:1Points: 4
The online affordable master’s in I/O psychology from Adler University places a unique emphasis on inclusion and social justice. Students are engaged in intensive online coursework and gain real world experience through a community engagement project. Concentration areas include:
- Data Science
- Training and Development
- Human Resource Management
All students participate in a social justice practicum. This unique experience consists of a 200-clock hour internship working in a community outreach site that aligns with their area of interest. Professionals will job performance and employee behavior when they are finished. Students complete their degree by submitting a thesis or a capstone project.
23. William James College – Newton, Massachusetts
Organizational Psychology Master of Arts
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $33,900/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 7:1Points: 4
William James College features an accelerated online master’s in organizational psychology for students planning a career in organizational development or change management. Students can complete their degree entirely online or in combination with Weekends-in-Residence that takes place at the end of one of the core courses. An optional concentration in talent management is available for students wanting to focus in this specialized area. Full-time students can complete their degree in just 11 months while part-time students can finish in 23 months.
22. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology – Los Angeles, California
Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $22,212/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 9:1Points: 4
The high value master’s online in industrial and organizational psychology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is for students planning a career in applied research. Both full and part-time program options are available. Courses are taught by practitioner faculty and cover areas like:
- personnel selection
- performance appraisal
- leadership
Students complete an applied research project allowing them to gain hands-on experience with an authentic workplace situation. Scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help keep the program affordable.
21. Saint Peter’s University – Jersey City, New Jersey
Online Master of Industrial Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $21,186/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 13:1Points: 4
Saint Peter’s University offers a high-quality master’s in industrial/organizational psychology online that follows a scientist-practitioner model. Both the Master of Science and Master of Arts options are available to students, depending on their professional goals. The MS requires four electives and a thesis while the MA requires five electives and a capstone project. There are no on-campus residency requirements, allowing students to earn their degree around their busy schedule. Full-time students can earn their degree in just 15 months.
20. Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, Arizona
Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,528/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 21:1Points: 4
The high quality online industrial/organizational psychology master’s degree from Grand Canyon University teaches students advanced scientific principles of human behavior. Students will learn how to apply research-based methods to produce data that gives management recommendations for how to improve the employee performance. This 36-credit hour program is delivered in a flexible online format with eight-week courses. Core courses include:
- Strategies for Effective Leadership and Consultation
- Principles of Personnel and Human Resource Management
- Organizational Behavior and Development
All students complete a professional capstone, developing original research ideas and learning about occupational opportunities in the field.
19. Auburn University – Auburn, Alabama
Online Master of Science in I/O Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,080/year in-state and $30,240/year out-of-stateStudent to Faculty Ratio: 20:1Points: 4
Auburn University offers a best value online I/O psychology master’s program in a flexible, asynchronous format. This 30-credit hour, non-thesis program takes two years to complete. Both in-state and out-of-state students receive the same in-state tuition rate. Course offerings include:
- Personnel Selection
- Training and Development in Organizations
- Ethics and Professional Issues in I/O Psychology
Courses are delivered in partnership with Auburn Online to ensure students receive high-quality content and interaction. There is no GRE required for admission.
18. Purdue University Global – West Lafayette, Indiana
Online Master of Science Psychology-I/O Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,766/year in-state and $9,740/year out-of-stateStudent to Faculty Ratio: 28:1Points: 4
Purdue University Global delivers a low-cost online industrial/organizational psychology master’s program taught by doctoral level faculty with relevant industry experience. Courses are scheduled in 10-week terms. I/O psychology courses include:
- Clinical Applications, Supervision, and Management
- Implementing Procedures for Behavior Change
- Concepts of Measurement and Experimental Design
All students complete a field placement, gaining valuable professional experience in their own communities. Students can choose to complete a comprehensive exam or a thesis as their culminating experience. Purdue University Global offers several cost saving discounts to students through:
- corporate partner benefits
- financial aid packages
- a liberal transfer credit policy.
17. Golden Gate University – San Francisco, California
Online Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $19,620/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 12:1Points: 5
The best-value online master’s in industrial/organizational psychology from Golden Gate University is a 39-credit hour program for aspiring I/O psychology leaders. Core courses include:
- Organizational Behavior and Development
- Structure, Theory and Ethics of Conflict Resolution
- Consulting Skills
Students who want to boost their resume can complete a professional internship experience. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and a GPA of at least a 2.5. Graduates can make a positive impact within their organization by increasing employee productivity and improving employee relations.
16. University of the Incarnate Word – San Antonio, Texas
MAA Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $18,000/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 12:1Points: 5
The University of the Incarnate Word offers an affordable master’s in administration with a concentration in industrial and organizational psychology. This unique program teaches core competencies in administration along with focused training in I/O psychology. The 12-credit hour concentration includes courses in:
- workplace motivation
- diversity in organizations
- assessment and testing in the workplace
The curriculum fully aligns with the Society for Human Resources Management Curriculum Guidebook and Templates, allowing students to sit for the SHRM-CP exam.
15. Northcentral University – La Jolla, California
Master of Science in I/O Psychology Online
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $16,983/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 3:1Points: 5
Workplace knowledge is powerful. The online master’s in I/O psychology from Northcentral University can give students the advanced skill set to address workplace challenges facing:
- individuals
- teams
- organizations
Tuition is affordable and with the Tuition Lock program, students never have to worry about the cost of their education increasing. The curriculum meets the curriculum guidelines established by the Society of Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Students complete 10 courses and can earn their degree in just 16 months.
14. Franklin University – Columbus, Ohio
Master’s in Business Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $16,080/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 13:1Points: 5
The 36-credit hour online master’s in business psychology from Franklin University teaches students how to apply psychology principles to improve business and organizational performance. Students can complete their degree in just 14 months. Courses are taught from real-world business practitioners who share their industry experience with their students. The contemporary curriculum includes the latest business strategies with cutting edge psychological research. Students can lock in their low tuition rate for the duration of the program as long as they remain actively enrolled.
13. University of Hartford – West Hartford, Connecticut
Online Master of Science in Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,292/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 8:1Points: 5
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Hartford offers a high value online master’s in organizational psychology that prepares today’s leaders to tackle challenges within their organizations. Courses are designed to help students gain skills in areas like:
- data collection and analysis
- research design
- communication
Full and part-time program options are available. Students who want to gain practical experience in an organizational setting can follow the Internship Track which includes a three-credit hour practicum course. Students working full-time can select the Capstone Track. This includes a capstone course that allows students to apply organizational material in their current role.
12. Johnson and Wales University – Providence, Rhode Island
Online Master of Science I/O Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,148/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 11:1Points: 5
The top organizational psychology master’s degree program at Johnson and Wales University is a two- year program with a 100% career focused curriculum. Students can choose to take a professional or scholarly focus. They complete either a capstone project or thesis, depending on their professional goals. Coursework is challenging and covers areas like:
- Leadership Theory and Practice
- Coaching and Consultation Skills
- Team Dynamics
Students can complete the degree at their own pace while learning from experienced faculty. Multiple start dates are available throughout the year so students can begin working on their degree when it is most convenient.
11. National Louis University – Chicago, Illinois
Online M.S. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,646/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 16:1Points: 5
National Louis University features an affordable online master’s in I/O psychology that offers a mix of courses from the master’s in psychology and master’s in human resources. The program is professionally focused to meet the needs of employers. The curriculum aligns with the industry’s best practices as published by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Courses are delivered 100% online and meet Quality Matters standards for online education. Students move through the program as a cohort while building relationships with faculty and peers. Most students can complete their degree in 20 months.
10. Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
Online Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,710/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 16:1Points: 5
The affordable top online master’s in industrial/organizational psychology from Bellevue University can help students further their career with advanced training to impact performance in the corporate landscape. Students are activity engaged through:
applied assessment real-world organizational projects professional networking opportunities
The flexible schedule allows students work on their degree while maintaining work-life balance. Students can take one course at a time, streamlining the path to complete their degree. The cohort model allows students to develop meaningful relationships and build a professional network.
9. Colorado State University – Fort Collins, Colorado
Master of Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology
WebsiteAverage Graduate Tuition: $10,520/year in-state and $25,791/year out-of-stateStudent to Faculty Ratio: 16:1Points: 5
Colorado State University offers a best-value Master of Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology (MAIOP) focused on improving performance and productivity of employees and organizations. Courses are taught by faculty with industry experience. In fact, faculty have an average of 15 years of experience in the I/O field! Courses are designed to give students advanced knowledge in areas like:
- Workforce Diversity
- Corporate Culture and Climate
- Performance Appraisal Instruments
Graduates are successful in areas like:
- HR
- academia
- training and development.
8. Missouri University of Science and Technology – Rolla, Missouri
Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,452/year in state and $29,558/year out of stateStudent to Faculty Ratio: 19:1Points: 5
The low-cost distance education I/O psychology master’s degree from Missouri S&T is a 40-credit hour program with thesis and non-thesis options. Students can boost their resume by taking advantage of two embedded graduate certificate programs including:
- Statistical Methods in Psychology
- Applied Workplace Psychology
Students will learn key I/O psychology skills that will help them be more effective trainers and help their employees achieve greater work-life balance. They will explore strategies for organizational development and learn how to develop assessments to find the right employees. New students are typically admitted to the program for the fall semester.
7. Kansas State University – Manhattan, Kansas
Master of Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,212/year in-state and $23,050/year out-of-stateStudent to Faculty Ratio: 18:1Points: 5
K-State Online features a cost-effective master’s in psychology with an emphasis in industrial and organizational psychology. The program is a great choice for professionals who need expert knowledge in areas like:
- human behavior
- federal and state laws
- organizational policies
New students begin their degree in the summer and move thru the program as a cohort. During the first two summers, students come to campus for a two-week intensive. Online courses include:
- Performance Appraisal
- Organizational Psychology
- Personnel Selection
Students can complete their degree in three years.
6. Eastern Kentucky University – Richmond, Kentucky
Online Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master’s Degree
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,900/year in-state and $13,950/year out-of-stateStudent to Faculty Ratio: 15:1Points: 5
Students who want to improve performance and productivity in their organizational should consider the online master’s in industrial organizational psychology from Eastern Kentucky University. The 36-credit hour features accelerated, eight-week terms and follows the SIOP training guidelines. Students can participate in field experience opportunities through the Center for Applied Psychology and Workforce Development and an experiential learning capstone project. Students with at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA can waive the GRE requirement.
5. Austin Peay State University – Clarksville, Tennessee
MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,100/year in state and $13,086/year out of stateStudent to Faculty Ratio: 16:1Points: 5
Austin Peay State University features a low-priced online master’s in industrial/organizational psychology that takes two years to complete. The curriculum follows a traditional semester schedule and there are no on-campus residency requirements. The program follows the Guidelines for Education and Training and the Master’s Level from the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Admission to the program is competitive. Courses include:
- Personnel Assessment and Selection
- Performance Management
- Applied Measurement in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Applicants should have at least a 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA to be considered for acceptance to the program. New students are accepted for the fall and spring semesters.
4. Baker College – Owosso, Michigan
Master of Science in I/O Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $12,510/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 8:1Points: 6
The 36-credit hour master’s online in industrial/organizational psychology from Baker College helps students use the principles of psychology to help their organizations achieve success. Students will use psychological theories and principles to help individuals and teams work better together to further the mission of the organization. Courses are taught by working professionals who share their real-world perspective with their students. Core courses include:
- Individual and Group Factors in the Workplace
- Psychology of Leadership
- Psychology of Performance and Motivation
An integrative capstone course allows students to synthesize the knowledge and skills they learned in the program.
3. Albizu University – Miami, Florida
Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,774/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 12:1Points: 6
Albizu University delivers an affordable industrial/organizational psychology master’s program taught by active I/O professionals. Students benefit from a low student/faculty ratio that allows students to get to know their instructors and peers. Faculty serve as mentors to support students with their career goals. Required courses include:
- Employment Law
- Organizational Training and Development
- I/O Statistics
Online students complete an applied research project as their capstone course. Graduates are successful I/O psychology practitioners in areas like:
- HR
- government
- research.
2. Marian University – Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin
Online Master of Science in Industrial Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,070/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 12:1Points: 6
The low cost online master’s in industrial/organizational psychology from Marian University is a flexible program emphasizing both social and global perspectives. Students can choose to complete a thesis or gain practical experience through a practicum. With 12 convenient start dates per year and non-sequential courses, students can begin the program when it’s convenient and set their own pace. Core courses cover areas like:
- Training and Development
- Ethical and Legal Issues
- Organizational Consulting
Full-time students can complete their degree in just 16 months.
1. Touro University Worldwide – Los Alamitos, California
Online Master of Arts in Industrial & Organizational Psychology
Website
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,000/yearStudent to Faculty Ratio: 10:1Points: 6
Touro University Worldwide offers our top choice for a master’s in industrial and organizational psychology. The rigorous 36-credit hour curriculum is comprised of short, eight-week courses delivered in a flexible 100% online format. Students will learn how to effectively deal with issues like:
- low productivity
- ineffective processes
- low morale
Three concentrations are available including:
- Coaching and Consulting
- Human Resource Management
- Occupational Health Psychology
All students complete a capstone course focusing on an organizational or career-related situation relevant to the student’s professional goals.
Are You Interested in Earning an Online Masters in Industrial/Organizational Psychology?
In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern work environments, the role of industrial-organizational psychologists has become paramount. The provided list of the top 25 online master’s degree programs in industrial-organizational psychology underscores the growing importance of this field in enhancing human resources practices and organizational structures.
Industrial-organizational psychologists delve into the intricacies of human behavior within workplaces, harnessing scientific research and data analysis to optimize job satisfaction, work-life balance, and worker productivity. Their expertise in performance measurement and task analysis enables them to evaluate performance effectively, shaping better career paths for employees. The link between psychological insights and technical skills offers a holistic approach to understanding the human factors that influence job performance.
With an increased emphasis on evidence-based practices, these professionals contribute to the scientific study of work, guiding organizations to align their strategies with the latest research findings. The diverse career paths available to industrial-organizational psychologists are characterized by their impact on annual wages, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. As industrial-organizational psychology continues to illuminate the dynamics of work, these experts play a pivotal role in shaping the future of industries and enhancing the quality of work life.
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