Program Overview
Adler University’s online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology trains students in one of psychology’s fastest-growing specialties: the scientific study of how human beings shape the business world, and how businesses shape human beings, the groups to which they belong, and the communities in which they live.
We prepare socially responsible I/O professionals with insight, innovation, and direction to address today’s complex organizational issues of workplace diversity and inclusiveness, employee performance, change management, workplace safety, organizational culture, team building, and more.
Adler University applies a unique emphasis on social justice and inclusion. We do so through intensive online coursework and real-world experience through a community engagement project that supports resume-building success toward employment after graduation.
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Concentrations
As part of the online M.A. in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology, students will select from three specialized concentrations – Data Science, Training and Development, or Human Resources Management – tailored to their desired career path.
Data Science
The Data Science concentration is 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
The Training and Development concentration 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
Students in the Human Resources Management concentration 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.
**Note. Students selecting the Human Resources Management concentration will take an additional course, for a total of 39 credits.
Student Outcomes
Our students are well-prepared for a wide range of in-demand positions in industries as diverse as healthcare, biotechnology, marketing, engineering, banking, and manufacturing.
In the industrial area of practice, I/O practitioners may work in recruitment, selection, and placement; compensation and benefits; performance management; job analysis, research, survey development and validation; measurement of training effects; safety and performance issues related to human factors; and consumer behaviors.
In the organizational area of practice, I/O practitioners may work in organizational culture and diversity; organizational change; organizational development; leadership development; group and team dynamics; instructional design and training development; motivation and rewards; work-life balance; and organizational branding.
Careers in I/O Psychology
Our program prepares specialists in industrial and organizational psychology to work as internal and external consultants or full-time professionals in a variety of fields, including:
- Human resources
- Academia
- Employee relations
- Private practice
- Organizational change
- Learning and development
- Talent management consulting
- Occupational health and wellbeing
- Group dynamics and facilitation
- Leadership development and coaching
Gain the knowledge and skills to create real change in the workplace with small, collaborative classes taught by leading practitioners and scholars.
Our program offers extensive individualized advising and mentorship to ensure students develop their leadership capacity, a collective act that requires personal mastery and the ability to cultivate high-quality relationships. Students learn to identify and build on others’ strengths and talents to create authentic, generative relationships in service of a purposeful vocational life.
Unique to our institution is the Social Justice Practicum, a transformative, high-impact field experience completed by all Adler students to cultivate skills for becoming agents of social change. This goes hand-in-hand with the program’s core professional practicum tailored to students’ career goals. Through our partnership network, students gain real-world experience and build their professional reputation among those who are redefining work in the 21st century.
Graduate Spotlight
Brittany Bediako, graduate
Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
One of the aspects I am very grateful for is that I was able to see real-life application of my education right out of the gate. My professors and coursework provided so much perspective to things I have had to work through over the course of my career.
Curriculum
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. Successful completion of this program includes the courses listed below.
Master’s in I/O Psychology courses
Find course descriptions and more information in the Adler University course catalog.
Core Courses
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This seminar course provides students with an overview of the principles of Adlerian theory as they relate to socially responsible professional practice in the areas of leadership and applied psychology.
Thesis or Capstone
Students select either the capstone course, or the three-course thesis series.
The Capstone course provides students with a unique opportunity to complete a project that will reflect their learning and training experiences throughout the program.
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.
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.
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.
Concentration in Data Science
Students completing the Concentration in Data Science must complete the following courses for their concentration coursework requirements:
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.
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 Resources 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.
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.
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.
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 and Development
Students completing the Concentration in Training and Development must complete the following courses for their concentration coursework requirements:
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.
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.
Social Justice Practicum
The Social Justice Practicum (SJP) is a first-year, non-clinical and non-discipline specific experiential practicum that begins in the second course period of the student’s program. Students gain the knowledge, skills, and perspectives to utilize collective power and social justice strategies to build a more equitable society.
The Social Justice Practicum (SJP) is a first-year, non-clinical and non-discipline specific experiential practicum that begins in the second course period of the student’s program. Students gain the knowledge, skills, and perspectives to utilize collective power and social justice strategies to build a more equitable society.
The Social Justice Practicum (SJP) is a first-year, non-clinical and non-discipline specific experiential practicum that begins in the second course period of the student’s program. Students gain the knowledge, skills, and perspectives to utilize collective power and social justice strategies to build a more equitable society.
The Social Justice Practicum (SJP) is a first-year, non-clinical and non-discipline specific experiential practicum that begins in the second course period of the student’s program. Students gain the knowledge, skills, and perspectives to utilize collective power and social justice strategies to build a more equitable society.
Social Justice Practicum
200-hour internship to give students real world experience
A unique and proven program designed to give students real-world experience throughout their time at Adler University, the Social Justice Practicum is a required 200-hour internship that spans four courses (or terms for online programs). Every student is given a number of civic-minded categories to choose from. They submit their desired areas of interest. After which, they are assigned a specific and aligned community outreach site where they will work 8 to 10 hours per week.
Online Learning Format
Adler University approaches online learning with the same commitment to academic excellence and student support that has been the hallmark of our 65-year history. Our innovative online graduate courses deliver an engaging, interactive learning experience designed to accommodate your busy schedule.
Online learning offers a great deal of independence and flexibility, but that doesn’t mean that you’re alone. Our online student body is supported by the same administrative and academic staff who serve our on-campus students. Your instructors are also available to answer your questions, provide more information, and connect you with additional resources to help you succeed. In addition, your cohort classmates will be a source of ongoing support and collaboration as you progress through your degree program, and well after graduation.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants are required to have:
- 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.
- Two letters of recommendation**
Conditional Admission Status
Applicants admitted on a conditional basis must achieve a 3.0 cumulative GPA in their first two courses in order to achieve full admission status and continue in the program. Applicants not meeting this standard may be dismissed from the university. Applicants admitted on a conditional basis are not eligible to repeat coursework until they achieve a full admission status.
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.
**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.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition for Adler University’s programs is charged each term according to the number of registered academic credits. The number of credits a student will register for varies by academic program and by term. To estimate the amount of tuition and fees that would be charged in a given term, please use our Tuition Estimator tool below, or read about tuition and fees for all Online programs.