Three people in business attire sit at a table, while a woman with a Ph.D. stands in front of a whiteboard with charts and notes, leading a meeting in a bright office.

Master of Arts (M.A.) in Industrial + Organizational Psychology

Online

The Adler University Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology prepares professionals to apply workplace psychology to lead change, enhance performance, and build healthier organizational systems locally and globally.

  • 36-42 credits
  • 1-year program, full-time study
  • SHRM | CPHR certification
  • Part-time opportunities
  • Specialized concentrations
  • Pathway to doctorate
Apply Now (opens in a new tab) Request Information All Programs

Admission Deadlines

Term Final
Fall II 2025 10/6/2025
Spring I 2026 12/1/2025
Summer I 2026 4/1/2026
Fall I 2026 8/1/2026

Program overview

Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology continues to expand as organizations increasingly seek specialists who can strengthen teams, improve performance, and support employee well-being. This program prepares graduates to meet those demands by blending theory with applied practice across a range of industries.

Through integrated learning in talent selection, leadership coaching, organizational assessment, and change management, students develop the skills to implement evidence-based strategies that foster resilient, high-performing workplaces. Graduates leave ready to guide organizations through evolving challenges, shaping the future of work while cultivating environments where people and systems thrive together.

Why choose the online I/O master’s program at Adler?

  • Nationally recognized: Ranked #25 Best Online Master’s in Organizational Psychology (2025) by Intelligent.com for excellence in preparing leaders to transform workplaces and drive organizational change.
  • Fully online, flexible format: Complete the program entirely online, with asynchronous learning that lets working professionals balance studies, work, and life.
  • Certification: Eligibility for Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) or Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR) certification strengthens career pathways in HR policy, people strategy, and organizational leadership..
  • Capstone or thesis option: Choose a capstone project applying learning to organizational challenges, or a three-course thesis developing original research.
  • Strong mentorship and small classes: Receive one-on-one advising and work with experienced faculty.

Thesis + capstone

Adler University’s online I/O Psychology program gives students the choice between completing a single-course capstone project or a three-course thesis series. Both options follow a structured process that supports the development of comprehensive, in-depth work.

CONCENTRATIONS

As part of the online master’s in I/O Psychology program, students will select from three specialized concentrations tailored to their desired career path.

Data Science

Geared for students who want to become experts at analyzing data and using it to make informed, socially responsible decisions that impact their organizations. Students in this concentration will learn key principles of data collection and analysis, various models and uses of the data science lifecycle, and how to navigate through several major data analytics platforms.

Training and Development

Prepares students to analyze and create effective training and development programs from a strategic, organization-wide standpoint. As part of the concentration, students learn how to build, improve, and implement programs inclusive of the organization’s various populations, including e-learning programs, needs assessments, and performance development.

Human Resources Management

Learn to view human resources from a strategic perspective to help an organization meet its goals and objectives. In the concentration, students will focus on designing comprehensive human resource programs, understanding risk management, and navigating change management within an organization. Graduates of the program will also be prepared to pursue the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification.

*Students selecting the Human Resources Management concentration will take two additional courses, for a total of 42 credits

Careers in leadership + strategy

Built on a strong theoretical foundation and enriched by applied experience, Adler’s Industrial and Organizational Psychology program opens doors to careers across a variety of settings, including roles such as:

Two men work together at a desk; one is sitting with a laptop and notebook, while the other stands, writing on paper and looking at the computer screen.

Human Resources Manager

Oversees recruitment, employee relations, and retention strategies to build and sustain a strong workforce. With certification from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) or Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR), graduates are well-positioned to guide HR policy and align people strategy with organizational goals.

Photo of Nola Remi-Adelasoye

Executive Coach

Partners with leaders and teams to strengthen decision-making, communication, and performance. Executive coaches play a key role in shaping organizational culture and driving long-term growth.

Two men sit on stairs indoors, one looking down with hands clasped, the other looking at him, appearing to have a serious conversation.

Organizational Development Specialist

Designs and leads change initiatives that improve workplace culture, innovation, and overall effectiveness. These specialists apply psychological principles to align people, processes, and systems with organizational strategy.

Two people walk and talk in a modern office hallway. The woman gestures with her hand while the man listens and smiles. Both appear relaxed and engaged in conversation.

People Analytics Specialist

Uses behavioral research and workforce data to inform HR strategy and organizational decision-making. This role blends data analysis with psychological insight to optimize hiring, performance, and retention.

Admissions requirements

Apply Now (opens in a new tab)

Eligibility

Applicants of the online I/O master’s program must meet the following requirements:

  • A baccalaureate degree, by the date of matriculation, earned from an accredited college or university, or an equivalent degree from an international college or university.
  • A GPA of 3.0 or better (on a 4.0 scale) in their baccalaureate degree.
    • Applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.99 will be considered for conditional admission by submitting two letters of recommendation from a current professor, supervisor, and/or someone who can attest to the applicant’s ability to be successful in a graduate program. Exceptions may be made for applicants with a conferred graduate degree.
    • Applicants with a GPA below a 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Application requirements

Applicants are required to submit the following items to be considered for admission:

  • Completed application submitted via the online portal.
  • Application fee.
  • 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. Letters of recommendation may be waived based on cumulative grade point average from your degree-granting institution. Letters of recommendation should be submitted by professional references on letterhead.

Approved applicants will be invited to complete an interview with faculty.

Provisional Admission Status

Applicants admitted on a provisional basis must submit all outstanding collateral, as defined in their acceptance letter, prior to the end of their first course to achieve full admission status and continue in the program. Applicants not meeting this standard may be dismissed from the University.

How to Apply + Submit Transcripts
  1. Visit Adler University’s online application portal, create an account, and submit your application, fee, Statement of Intent, resume/CV, and references’ details.
  2. 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
    17 N. Dearborn Street
    Chicago, IL 60602

Curriculum | Internships | practicums

This 36-credit program is offered entirely online and can be completed in as few as 12 months, making it an attractive option for students who may be currently employed. Our asynchronous learning model allows for convenience and flexibility.

Completion of the program includes the courses below, along with additional requirements outlined in the Adler University Course Catalog.

Adler University Course Catalog

CORE COURSES

These courses form the foundation for your education at Adler.

Organizational Theory

This course presents a multi-faceted view of organizational theory for the I/O practitioner. Both the history of the field and current issues related to research and practice are explored.

Statistics

This course prepares students to conduct statistical analyses using SPSS. Descriptive, inferential, and multivariate statistical techniques will be examined as they relate to decision-making and problem-solving in organizations and systems.

Research Methods

This course explores the fundamental concepts of social science research methodology within the field of applied psychology. Students will learn how to conduct literature reviews, establish and evaluate sampling methods and research designs, and recognize variables related to systems evaluation.

Organizational Development and Change

This course examines the vital role of organizational development (OD) to help organizations evolve to meet business challenges. Through case study and interactive discussion, students learn about the phases of planned change.

Group Dynamics

In this course, students are introduced to the function and structure of groups to promote organizational effectiveness. The science behind group decision-making, process and communication are explored. Course topics also cover conflict resolution, leadership and power, collaboration and shared goals.

Talent Selection and Recruitment

This course provides students with an introduction to tools and procedures used to recruit and select the best employees for organizations. The course will prepare students with the skills to: conduct a job analysis, create job applications and structured job interviews, and evaluate appropriate tools for employee selection.

Talent Management

This course will offer students an introduction to the field of talent management and what has also been known as personnel psychology An overview of the processes used by organizations to attract, select, retain, and develop employees will be discussed in this course.

Training Theory

The course provides students with a thorough understanding of the role of a training and development practitioner. Students will be provided with an analysis of current best practices as they relate to adult learning, instructional design/ strategy, and program evaluation.

THESIS OR CAPSONE

Adler University’s online I/O Psychology program gives students the choice between completing a single-course capstone project or a three-course thesis series. Both options follow a structured process that supports the development of comprehensive, in-depth work.

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.

CONCENTRATION IN DATA SCIENCE

Students completing the Concentration in Data Science must complete the following courses for their concentration coursework requirements.

Data Science

The course will provide students with an overview of key concepts and skills in the field of data science. Emphasis will be placed on the use of data for socially responsible decision making.

Data Analytics for Programming

This course will examine the role of data analytics in different organizational settings. The mechanisms of data analytics for programming will be explored along with tools and methods used for programming.

CONCENTRATION IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Students completing the Concentration in Human Resources Management must complete the following three courses for their concentration coursework requirements. Students electing to complete the emphasis in Human Resource Management will complete one extra 3-credit course, for a total of 39 credits.

Overview of Human Resources Management

This course introduces roles and responsibilities within human resource management and explores the design and implementation of effective total rewards programs, recognition strategies, management practices, HR policies, workplace health and safety, initiatives and employee relations approaches.

Risk and Change Management

This course covers the internal and external forces that necessitate change in organizations such as technological innovation, competitive pressures, generational preferences and differences, social issues, and political trends. This course covers the impact on employees and organizations when changes are managed proactively as well as reactively.

Workplace Measurement and Performance Management

In this course, students learn about the various strategies to assess, understand and improve upon measurable workplace behaviors, attitudes, and topics. Students will learn all aspects of the performance management process, which begins with the organization’s goals and standards and is continuously monitored by measuring and evaluating employees, distributing rewards, coaching and training employees, providing feedback, and aligning goals across the levels of the organization.

CONCENTRATION IN TRAINING + DEVELOPMENT

Students completing the Concentration in Training and Development must complete the following courses for their concentration coursework requirements:

Employee Development

This course provides students with an overview of key theories of and strategies for employee development and training. An analysis of current best practices in training and development will be explored, including adult learning theory, instructional design/ strategy, and program evaluation.

E-Learning

In this course, students will explore concepts, methods and theories surrounding e-learning. E-learning is a large area within training and development that explores principles of training and development in a virtual environment.

A woman wearing glasses and a light green hijab—perhaps a Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. student—touches her neck and looks to the side, set against a blurred indoor background.

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.

Financial Aid + Scholarships

Please make a selection using the filters above.

The latest from our
students, faculty, and alumni

ADLER NEWS
A circular badge reads "Insight Into Academia Higher Education Excellence and Distinction Award 2025 Graduate School" with a graduation cap graphic, celebrating Adler University's commitment to higher education.

Adler University receives Insight Into Academia 2025 Higher Education Excellence and Distinction (HEED) Award

Read More
A bald man wearing glasses, a dark suit, a light blue shirt, and a patterned tie stands in an office setting, smiling at the camera—Joseph Troiani, author of A City at War: Chicago WWII.

‘A City at War’: Associate Professor Joseph Troiani, Ph.D., highlights Chicago’s WWII story

Read More
Adler University's President, Dr. Lisa Coleman.

President Lisa Coleman, Ph.D., named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Education for 2025

Read More

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.

Academic Programs
How to Apply
Financial Aid + Scholarships
Student Life at Adler
Adler University History