Master's in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

What is a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology?

The industrial/organizational psychology graduate program at Sacred Heart University provides students with an advanced foundation in the scientific study of human behavior, research methodology and broad exposure to the many different subfields within the discipline.

The goal of I/O psychology is to effectively study human behavior in the workplace and implement meaningful measures to improve professional satisfaction, increase productivity and promote overall better quality of life for all individuals in the workplace.

Is a Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology Worth It?

Industrial/organizational psychologists play an increasingly valuable role in companies and organizations of all sizes, making a graduate degree in I/O psychology “worth it” in the minds of many students. As the demand for highly-qualified I/O psychologists continues to grow, salaries are likely to remain quite lucrative.

Salaries can vary widely based on years of experience, where you live and the location and size of your organization; but regardless of where you work, the overall earning potential in this profession is quite healthy.

On average, individuals with a graduate degree in I/O psychology earn an annual salary of $71,000, with the top 10% of earners in the field making $210,000. I/O psychologists working in local government (excluding schools and hospitals) have the highest-grossing career path with a mean annual wage of $156,940.

Why Earn Your Master’s Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at Sacred Heart?

Help companies keep their employees happier and healthier. At SHU, you’ll learn how to help organizations increase efficiency and employee satisfaction using psychological principles, and be prepared to apply your advanced knowledge to a career in business, research, academics and more.

Complete the full master’s degree in one calendar year with our unique cohort-style model. Students will complete the degree in a series of six 8-week modules. Students will attend courses in the evenings twice per week, taking two courses per module, and in-course sessions will be supplemented with online work to accelerate completion time.

In this program, you will also:

• Develop your knowledge, skills, and ethics as a competent and effective I/O psychologist 
• Learn to apply a broad range of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary knowledge and skills in multicultural and global settings
• Engage in evidence-based research and learn to apply that knowledge appropriately within organizations
• Complete your degree in one year with our accelerated, hybrid format. Classes meet in the evenings twice per week with supplemental coursework online.
• Gain real-world experience through an applied project
• Learn from expert faculty who are both scientists and practitioners working in the field
• Have the option to work on research projects with faculty

Dual Degree Program

Students apply to the Bachelor’s–Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology 4+1 Dual Degree Program as an incoming freshman and are admitted directly into the graduate program at the same time as your admission as an undergraduate student. Students are encouraged to reach out to your admissions counselor to discuss dual degree options.

What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology?

While it’s common to find I/O psychologists employed in human resources departments, the application of their skills can go far beyond HR. While specific duties can depend largely on the type of organization and the role they hold, some of the common areas of responsibility for I/O psychologists include:

• Employee selection and training
• Leadership development
• Compensation
• Organizational structure
• Workplace safety
• Performance measurement
• Work-life balance

The largest number of I/O psychologists are found in the following industries:

• Scientific research and development
• Management, scientific and technical consulting
• State government and local governments
• Colleges, universities and professional schools
• Management of companies and enterprises

What are Three Major Careers in I/O Psychology?

Career opportunities for I/O psychologists are incredibly varied. Possible career paths include:

Talent Management Specialist

Implement programs aimed at attracting and managing a business or organization’s talent pool

Organizational Development Consultant

Provide guidance and advice to help businesses improve efficiency, enhance operations and drive profitability without cutting departments or personnel

Training & Development Specialist

Create, administer and deliver training programs for businesses and organizations by assessing the needs of the organization

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