Master of Arts + Master of Industrial + Organizational Psychology
Vancouver
Adler University’s Master of Arts and Master of Industrial and Organizational Psychology prepare leaders to transform workplaces and promote organizational well-being. The program builds a strong foundation in psychology, research, and applied practice, equipping graduates for careers in human resources, consulting, and organizational development.
- 38 credits
- 2-year program, full-time study
- Evening + weekend courses
- Part-time opportunities
- Thesis + capstone options
- Pathway to doctorate
Admission Deadlines
| Term | Priority | Final |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | 9/30/2025 | 11/1/2025 |
| Fall 2026 | 2/15/2026 | 5/15/2026 |
Program overview
Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology is one of the fastest-growing fields, with increasing demand for experts in coaching, training, and workforce optimization. Adler University’s Master of Arts and Master of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (MAIOP | MIOP) prepare graduates to meet these needs and shape the future of work by building healthier, more innovative workplaces.
Students gain hands-on experience in psychometric assessment, strategic hiring, leadership development, and change management, applying evidence-based strategies that strengthen organizational culture and drive results.
Why choose the MAIOP | MIOP programs?
- Flexible learning options: Courses are primarily held on campus in Vancouver with select online options available. Daytime, evening, weekend, and part-time schedules are available to accommodate working professionals.
- Two pathways: The MAIOP includes a traditional thesis for original research; the MIOP features a capstone project focused on applied solutions in organizational settings.
- Comprehensive and practical curriculum: Combines psychological theory, evidence-based practices, and organizational science to address real-world workplace challenges.
- Immersive learning: A 240-hour Organizational Development Practicum places students in organizations to implement strategic solutions.
- Professional standards alignment: Meets the standards of APA Division 14 (Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology), the Canadian Society of Industrial Organizational Psychology, Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Chartered Professionals in Human Resources, and the Academy of Management.
Thesis + CAPSTONE
Students can choose between a thesis or capstone. Both follow a structured format that guides students through creating comprehensive, in-depth research projects. Producing rigorous, high-quality work strengthens analytical abilities and writing skills, fostering readiness for leadership roles and advancing professional impact.
Thesis | MAIOP
The MAIOP is designed for those interested in conducting primary research and tackling real-world organizational challenges through a traditional thesis process. Under the mentorship of a faculty supervisor and committee, students develop and engage in real-time, original studies with people. This hands-on research experience enables them to explore critical workplace issues and contribute innovative, evidence-based solutions.
Capstone | MIOP
Instead of a thesis, the MIOP concludes with an applied research project focused on addressing real-world organizational challenges. Through a critical analysis of existing literature, students generate meaningful insights and practical recommendations to improve workplace systems and outcomes.
Careers That transform workplaces
Workplace psychology expertise translates into careers that influence leadership, culture, and well-being across sectors.
Human Resources + Talent Acquisition
Design and implement strategies to recruit, develop, and retain employees across industries. Human Resources and Talent Acquisition professionals manage hiring processes, workforce planning, and employee engagement while ensuring compliance with organizational policies and employment law. By shaping workplace culture and aligning talent with organizational goals, they play a vital role in building effective, motivated, and sustainable teams.
LEADERSHIP + EXECUTIVE COACHING
Work with individuals and teams to enhance leadership capacity, improve decision-making, and guide organizational growth. Leadership and Executive Coaches assess strengths and areas for development, design tailored coaching strategies, and support leaders in navigating challenges, fostering collaboration, and driving performance. Through their work, they help organizations build resilient, adaptive, and effective leadership at every level.
Organizational Development + Change Management
Design and implement strategies that improve workplace effectiveness and help organizations adapt to evolving needs. Organizational Development and Change Management Professionals analyze systems, processes, and culture; guide leaders and teams through transitions; and apply evidence-based practices to strengthen performance and resilience. Their work ensures organizations can manage change successfully while fostering healthy, sustainable growth.
Workplace Wellness
Create programs and initiatives that promote employee well-being, engagement, and a positive organizational culture. Workplace Wellness Professionals design and evaluate corporate wellness strategies, support mental health and work-life balance, and develop practices that foster belonging and inclusion. By addressing both individual needs and systemic barriers, they help organizations cultivate healthier, more productive, and sustainable workplaces.
Research + Behavioural Analytics
Study human behaviour in organizational settings to generate insights that inform strategy and decision-making. Research and Behavioural Analytics Professionals design and conduct studies, analyze data on workplace performance and culture, and translate findings into practical recommendations. Their work helps organizations understand employee needs, predict trends, and implement evidence-based solutions that drive effectiveness and innovation.
Admissions requirements
Eligibility
Applicants to the MAIOP or MIOP program must meet the following requirements:
- A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
- Evidence of interest and experience in social change efforts.
- A GPA of 3.0 or higher for all undergraduate or graduate coursework.
For International Students
- 92 or better on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) with no band lower than 22.
- 7.0 IELTS Academic overall with no bands below 6.5.
- PTE must have a minimum score of 66.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit the following items to be considered for admission:
- Completed application submitted via the online portal.
- Application fee.
- Statement of Intent.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae.
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate schools attended (U.S. and Canada). International transcripts must be evaluated by a transcript evaluation service.
- Two letters of recommendation. These should be from someone who can specifically speak to your academic and professional abilities.
Approved applicants will be invited to complete an interview with faculty.
Statement of Intent
Applicants are required to provide a statement of intent answering the following questions. They should be 2-3 pages, double-spaced.
- Who are you and what is your background?
- What ignited your passion for psychology?
- Why are you interested in your chosen field and program?
- Why are you interested in the master’s program at Adler University?
- Where do you see yourself in future practice?
- What is your greatest strength and area for improvement, academically and professionally?
How to Apply + Submit Transcripts
- Visit Adler University’s online application portal, create an account, and submit your application, fee, Statement of Intent, resume/CV, and references’ details.
- Have official transcripts sent directly from each issuing institution or approved service to the Office of Admissions prior to the application deadline. Do not upload official copies to the portal.
Official electronic transcripts should be sent to admissions@adler.edu.
Physical transcripts should be sent to:
Adler University – Office of Admissions
520 Seymour Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 3J5
Curriculum | Internships | practicums
The comprehensive curriculum aligns with many of the standards and best practices of professional organizations, including the American Psychological Association’s Division 14 (Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology), the Academy of Management (AOM), the Canadian Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (CSIOP) under the Canadian Psychological Association, the Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR), and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
Completion of the program includes the courses below, along with additional requirements outlined in the Adler University catalogue.
CORE COURSES
Leadership Development
Addresses the principles of identifying and developing individual leader potential and organizational leadership capacity.
Consulting Skills
Designed to help the student develop the “core” organizational consulting skills. These include relationship skills with internal and external consulting clients, contracting, managing and delivering responses to requests for proposals (RFP’s), designing and delivering a training intervention, and the role and expectations of a consultant.
Communication Theory and Practice
This course focuses on being an effective consultant. Acting as an effective consultant requires various skills including accurate self-awareness and effective interpersonal communication skills
Introduction to Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Introduction to the core domains of the Industrial Organizational (I/O) Psychology. Students will be introduced to the field of I/O psychology and its core principles and practices.
Psychometrics Lab
With the increasing demand in evaluating the outcomes of organizational development initiatives, practitioners need to focus on the collection of valid and reliable data to inform policy decisions and to demonstrate to the funding authorities the effectiveness of their interventions.
Statistical Methods at Work
This course is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills relevant to application of statistical analyses that are essential to supplement organizational effectiveness.
Organizational Change and Development
Analysis of structures, culture, and leadership of organizations and how they differ. The majority of the course addresses the theories, activities, challenges and ethics of change-management initiatives affecting work units, task groups and individuals and the role of the consultant in these processes.
Social Psychology and Well-Being
Focuses on the social psychology concepts and processes to understand the interaction between self, people, and organizations. It addresses, the interplay between social psychological processes and organizational systems, and how these processes shape individual and organizational well-being.
THESIS OR CAPSTONE
Students select either the capstone course, or the three-course thesis series.
Capstone
The Capstone course provides students with a unique opportunity to complete a project that will reflect their learning and training experiences throughout the program.
Thesis 1
This course represents the first phase of the thesis. The MA Thesis is a student-directed study conducted in consultation with an assigned Chair in an area of applied psychology with relevance to the curriculum.
Thesis 2
This course represents the second phase of the thesis. The MA Thesis is a student-directed study conducted in consultation with an assigned Chair in an area of applied psychology with relevance to the curriculum.
Thesis 3
This course represents the third phase of the thesis. The MA Thesis is a student-directed study conducted in consultation with an assigned Chair in an area of applied psychology with relevance to the curriculum.
SOCIAL JUSTICE PRACTICUM
Your opportunity to create lasting change on local and global systems, almost from day 1.
The Social Justice Practicum (SJP) at Adler University is a first-year, non-clinical, community-based experience that reflects Alfred Adler’s concept of social interest. The practicum places students with mission-driven organizations where they complete a minimum of 200 approved hours across two semesters, typically 8–10 hours per week. Alongside their placements, students participate in required workshops. Each practicum is evaluated through midterm and final supervisor reviews, student self-assessments, and feedback on the site and project, with grades of High Pass, Pass, Remediation, or Fail. The experience culminates in a campus-wide presentation of outcomes, assessed by multiple evaluators, offering students both applied training and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful community change.
Organizational Development Practicum
Students complete a 240-hour Organizational Development Practicum, typically over four months at a site two to three days per week. Before starting, faculty review each student’s readiness, and supervision is provided both on-site and by Adler faculty. The practicum builds practitioner capacity by applying program learning in real organizational settings, including HR and OD departments, EAP firms, consulting firms, and nonprofit, public, or private organizations.
“My time at Adler was formative, and now I want to give back by helping today’s students build their careers. I want my students to be prepared and I want them to achieve even higher successes.”
– Tanis Angove, MA’15, adjunct professor
Financing your degree
Use our tuition calculator to help you start to plan your budget. Financial aid from the government, scholarships, or part-time employment can help you more easily afford your degree.
Faculty
Meet the faculty leading Adler’s online Master’s (M.A.) in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program.
Jason Walker, Psy.D., Ph.D.
Program Director + Associate Professor
Psychology: Health + Wellness | Industrial + Organizational Psychology
Alireza Sedghi Taromi, Ph.D.
Adjunct Faculty
Psychology: Health + Wellness | Industrial + Organizational Psychology
The latest from our
students, faculty, and alumni
From building change at Lululemon to preparing future IO psychology practitioners at Adler
More than a decade after enrolling at Adler University, Tanis Angove, MA’15, is now in front of the classroom. Drawing from a dynamic career that has spanned health care, nonprofits, utilities, and global retail, she is now teaching in program where her own professional journey began.
Adler University expands IO program access with reduced credits, adding evening, weekend classes
Adler University is expanding access to its Master of Arts and the Master of Industrial and Organizational Psychology (MAIOP | MIOP) programs by reducing completion requirements from 45 credits to 38 credits for incoming students in Fall 2025, then adding evening and weekend classes starting January 2026.
Enhancing Adler’s I/O Psychology programs: Welcome Associate Professor Pegah Yaghmaie, Ph.D.
With a strong background as a strategist, educator, researcher, entrepreneur, and consultant, Dr. Yaghmaie is bringing a fresh perspective to the program.
Still wondering?
Do you want to know more about Adler University before applying? Learn more about the University, explore programs, view admissions requirements, and review available scholarships.