The demand for psychologists, including Industrial/Organizational Psychologists is expected to grow by 6% through 2031. I/O psychology is the area of psychology focused on human behavior in the workplace. I/O psychologists work in a variety of areas including HR, administration, and marketing. An industrial organizational psychologist applies principles of psychology to solve organizational problems and improve efficiency. They are involved in:
- employee training and development
- testing
- policy planning
- the creation of organizational incentives
A master’s in I/O psychology can be a terminal degree or be used as a pathway to I/O psychology phd programs as well.
We created this list of the top 25 campus-based masters programs for industrial organizational psychology in the U.S. We used information from the National Center for Education Statistics to find I/O psychology programs offered in a campus-based environment. We narrowed our list to include only those organizational psychology graduate programs holding regional accreditation. We determined the best schools have a rigorous curriculum taught by faculty who are both researchers and industry professionals. They offer a rigorous curriculum that includes the opportunity for:
- field research
- a thesis or capstone project
- professional development opportunities
We then applied our ranking criteria to determine the top 25 campus-based IO psychology masters programs.
Featured Schools
Average Graduate Tuition
- Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
- $10,000 to $15,000 per year= 4 Points
- $15,001 to $20,000 per year= 3 Points
- $20,001 to $25,000 per year= 2 Points
- Greater than $25,001 per year= 1 Point
We also looked at a school’s student/faculty ratio and awarded more points to schools with a lower ratio. We believe a lower student to faculty ratio allows students to receive individualized attention and support throughout the program.
Student to Faculty Ratio
- 15:1 or less= 5 Points
- 16:1 to 20:1= 3 Points
- Greater than 20:1= 1 Point
25. Columbia University – New York, New York
Master of Arts-Social-Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $52,016/year
Points: 6
The Teachers College at Columbia University features an innovative social-organizational psychology on-campus master’s degree program. It’s ideal for students new to the field or transitioning careers. The 45- credit hour program prepares students to think critically about real-world issues facing organizations and individuals while learning how to implement effective solutions. Students receive training from experts and gain hands-on experience working with real clients. Both full and part-time program options are available. Courses are typically offered during the late afternoon and evening to accommodate working students. Internship opportunities are available but are not required.
24. New York University – New York, New York
Master of Arts in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $37,332/year
Points: 6
The top industrial and organizational psychology master’s degree at NYU supports a strong foundation in research, theory, and practice in the field. Advanced specialization options include:
- Management Consulting
- Diversity and Culture
- Executive Coaching
Both full and part-time program options are available. Students can choose to complete either a comprehensive exam or a thesis as their capstone experience. Courses are offered during the evening hours to accommodate students who work.
23. Elmhurst University – Elmhurst, Illinois
M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $33,000/year
Points: 6
Elmhurst University is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the United Church of Christ. They offer a high-value on-campus master’s in I/O psychology with evening classes. The program includes a capstone experience that could be:
- an internship
- capstone course
- optional thesis
Following a cohort model, students move through the program as a group, collaborating in classroom and study projects. Graduates are eligible to pursue the MBA Dual Degree Option. This is an additional one year program that leads to an MBA with a specialization in I/O psychology.
22. Hofstra University – Hempstead, New York
IO Psychology Masters Program
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $28,260/year
Points: 6
The Department of Psychology at Hofstra University features a low-priced campus-based MA in industrial/organizational psychology. It prepares students for a variety of career areas like HR, training, and management. This 44-clock hour program takes two years for full-time students to complete. An internship sequence gives students valuable hands-on industry experience. Required courses include:
- Ethics and Professional Practice in Psychology
- Statistics
- Industrial Psychology
Courses are offered in the evenings or late afternoons to accommodate working professionals.
21. University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Industrial/Organizational Psychology (I/O) Master’s Degree Program
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $18,468/year in-state and $28,578/year out-of-state
Points: 6
The University of Minnesota’s budget friendly I/O psychology on-campus master’s degree is a comprehensive program. It provides students with broad training across the areas of I/O psychology. Students can choose to specialize in areas like:
- Training and Development
- Individual Assessment
- Group and Organizational Processes
Students are actively engaged in research beginning in their first semester as they complete a first-year research project. Practical experience is gained through participation in the local I/O psychology practitioners’ group and internships. The highlight of the program is the I/O seminar, a three semester seminar series where students:
- build expertise
- identify with their field
- develop a professional network.
20. University of New Haven – West Haven, Connecticut
Master of Arts program in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $18,360/year
Points: 6
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of New Haven offers a low-cost master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology available to full and part-time students. Students learn to work with individuals and groups on:
- organizational change
- conflict management
- team dynamics
Three concentration options are available including:
- Industrial-Human Resources Psychology
- Organization Development and Consultation
- Psychology of Conflict Management
The program has the flexibility to accommodate students completing graduate assistantships, internships, or even full-time jobs. The practicum requirement can even be completed at the student’s place of employment.
19. Western Michigan University – Kalamazoo, Michigan
Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $17,539/year in-state and $26,308/year out-of-state
Points: 6
Western Michigan University features a cost-effective campus based I/O psychology master’s degree. WMU’s program is the longest running program in the country specifically dedicated to Organizational Behavior Management. This 36-credit hour program adheres to a mentorship model where each student works with individual faculty members based on professional goals and interests. Course offerings include:
- Personnel Training and Development
- Personnel Selection and Placement
- Behavioral Systems Analysis
Students can choose to complete either a thesis or a practicum experience to complete their degree.
18. Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Industrial/Organizational Psychology Master’s Program
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,942/year
Points: 6
The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at Central Michigan University features a high quality I/O psychology master’s program. This terminal degree program is for full-time students who want to apply the principles of psychology to improve their workplace. Core courses cover areas like:
- job analysis
- psychological testing
- personnel selection
Students complete course work, independent and faculty-supported research, and supervised applied projects in the students’ area of interest. New students are admitted for the fall semester.
17. Minnesota State University – Mankato, Minnesota
Master of Arts Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,836/year in-state and $13,256/year out-of-state
Points: 6
The high value campus based I/O psychology master’s degree from Minnesota State University is a hands-on program. It trains students on how to apply psychological principles in their workplace. The program follows a practical and collaborative approach, emphasizing real-world experiences and professional development. Courses include:
- Psychometric Theory
- Performance Appraisal
- Organizational Development
Students gain valuable skills as a part of the Organizational Effectiveness Research Group, an in-house consulting group. In addition to coursework, all students complete:
- a three-month internship or thesis
- a comprehensive exam
- a portfolio review.
16. San Jose State University – San Jose, California
Master of Science program in Industrial/Organization (I/O) Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,176/year in-state and $16,680/year out-of-state
Points: 6
San Jose State University features an affordable on-campus master’s in industrial/organizational psychology that prepares students for careers in professional practice and research. The program is comprised of 30 credit hours and includes:
- required and elective coursework
- an internship
- a thesis
San Jose State University is strategically located in the heart of Silicon Valley, giving students access to exciting internship opportunities with top companies like Tesla and Apple. Course offerings include:
- Applied Psychometrics
- Personnel Psychology
- Multivariate Analysis
Most students can complete their degree in two years.
15. University of Central Florida – Orlando, Florida
M.S. Program in I/O Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 30:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,916/year in-state and $25,759/year out-of-state
Points: 6
The top value master’s in industrial/organizational psychology from the University of Central Florida is a four-semester program designed for full-time students. Students can choose to complete a thesis. Admission to the program is competitive and only 16 to 18 new students are admitted each year. Courses include:
- Work Motivation and Job Attitudes
- Job Analysis and Performance Appraisal
- Psychological Testing
Students who choose not to complete a thesis participate in applied research. Students can choose to work independently or as part of a group with a faculty member on an applied research project or participate in a UCF Performance Solutions project.
14. Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas
Master’s Program in I/O Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,885/year in-state and $19,593/year out-of-state
Points: 6
Texas A&M University features a one of the most budget friendly organizational psychology master’s programs to make our ranking. This terminal degree program is a 16-month cohort-based program delivered in an accelerated format. The curriculum balances scientific discipline with professional practice, so students are prepared for success in the workplace. Faculty are experienced professionals who are dedicated to the development of their students. The 33-credit hour program does not require a thesis but does require an industry-based summer internship.
13. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology – Chicago, Illinois
M.A. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $23,454/year
Points: 7
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology features an innovative master’s in I/O psychology offered to full and part-time students. The I/O psychology master’s program is one of the few in the country that aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management guidelines. Courses cover a variety of topics including:
- performance appraisal
- motivation
- strategic human resource management
Students complete two, 300 clock hour internships to gain hands-on experience. Tuition is affordable and there are many scholarships and financial aid opportunities available.
12. Roosevelt University – Chicago, Illinois
Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (MA)
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $22,764/year
Points: 7
The cost-effective I/O psychology master’s program at Roosevelt University is a hands-on program that prepares students for success in the workplace. Dedicated faculty are experienced with a variety of organizations and are active in research. Students work closely with faculty throughout the program to develop skills in the science and practice of I/O psychology. Course offerings include:
- Training and Development
- Employee Testing
- Occupational Health Psychology
Applied project opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge and training to real workplace challenges and improve organizational effectiveness.
11. Montclair State University – Montclair, New Jersey
MA in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $13,740/year
Points: 7
Montclair State University is the second largest public university in New Jersey. They offer a budget friendly industrial/organizational psychology master’s degree with a comprehensive curriculum and a small class size. Students benefit from close mentoring relationships with faculty. To prepare students for success in the field, the program includes:
- coursework
- research opportunities
- experiential projects
Montclair has one of the few masters programs in IO psychology that offer data science courses. This two-year terminal degree program includes a year-long capstone project that can be either a supervised internship or an original thesis.
10. California Baptist University – Riverside, California
Industrial-Organizational Psychology Master of Science
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $13,680/year
Points: 7
California Baptist University offers a top affordable master’s in I/O psychology that gives students a strong theoretical foundation that prepares them to tackle real world challenges head-on. This 20- month program is carefully crafted around SIOP guidelines. Course offerings include:
- Work Motivation
- Social Psychology
- Leadership Development and Change Management
Students work closely with faculty on areas of research like employee engagement and career development. All students complete a practicum to gain hands-on experience.
9. University of Albany SUNY – Albany, New York
Industrial/Organizational Psychology Master’s program
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,310/year in-state and $23,100/year out-of-state
Points: 7
The high-quality Master of Arts in I/O psychology from the University of Albany is a dynamic program for students planning a career in:
- business
- government
- consulting
The program also serves to prepare students for I/O psychology doctoral study. Students will:
- complete required and elective coursework
- complete a written comprehensive exam
- select a capstone experience
Capstone options include an internship, field experience, or study abroad. Elective options include a thesis, practicum, or additional courses in management and psychology. Graduates have been hired by companies like General Electric and the IRS.
8. Seattle Pacific University – Seattle, Washington
Masters in IO Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $19,764/year
Points: 8
Seattle Pacific University features an I/O psychology master’s degree structured to follow the guidelines for I/O psychology training published by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Students will benefit from relevant coursework that addresses real-world challenges. Field-practicum experiences allow students to:
- design and implement intervention strategies
- participate in research
- develop leadership skills
Elective course offerings encourage students to take a deeper dive to meet their professional goals. All students complete a master’s project and professional portfolio during their final semester. Full-time students can complete their degree in two years.
7. Northern Kentucky University – Highland Heights, Kentucky
Master’s Degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,900/year in-state and $15,210/out of state
Points: 8
Northern Kentucky University features an affordable master’s in industrial/organizational psychology that is highly customizable. Students will develop a strong foundation in I/O theories, methods, and research findings while learning about current trends and best practices. All students must complete nine hours of electives from options like:
- Public Health
- Occupational Health Psychology
- Organizational Consulting
The program accommodates part-time and working students by offering courses during the evening hours.
6. St. Cloud State University – Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Industrial/Organizational Psychology (M.S.)
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,127/year in-state and $13,549/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The Department of Psychology at St. Cloud State University offers one of the best value industrial organizational psychology master’s programs with experiential learning opportunities. Students and faculty participate in local and national conferences and networking opportunities to further their professional development. The program follows a cohort format and new students are admitted in the fall. The program consists of coursework and a thesis and/or practicum. Students can complete their degree in just two years.
5. University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia
Master’s Program in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,878/year in-state and $25,186/year out-of-state
Points: 8
Among the top industrial organizational psychology graduate programs is the master’s degree offered by the University of Georgia. The professional I/O psychology master’s program is a two-year degree created for working professionals. Courses are offered in a collaborative, practitioner-focused format. Students come together five times in person each semester. Course offerings include:
- Testing and Measurements
- Competency Modeling and Evaluation
- Talent Acquisition
Students work on semester-long projects with organizations in the Atlanta area to gain professional experience. All students complete a practicum focused on developing consulting skills. Graduates have been hired by leading companies like Google and ADP.
4. Appalachian State University – Boone, North Carolina
Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Human Resource Management: Master of Arts (MA)
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $4,839/year in-state and $19,849/year out-of-state
Points: 8
Appalachian State University features one of the most affordable human resource management and industrial organizational psychology graduate programs. The program is offered through the Department of Psychology and Department of Management. The curriculum aligns with both the SIOP and the Society for Human Resource Management. Students will learn how to properly address organizational activities like:
- training and development
- performance appraisal
- development and change of organizations
Graduates are successful working for organizations like Defense Logistics, Marathon Petroleum, and CommScope.
3. University of North Carolina – Charlotte, North Carolina
Industrial Organizational Psychology Master’s Program
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $4,337/year in-state and $18,482/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of North Carolina Charlotte offers a top value graduate degree in I/O psychology that follows the SIOP guidelines. Courses are taken during the evenings and weekends to accommodate working professionals. Course offerings include:
- Talent Acquisition
- Measurement in Organizations
- Job Attitudes
Most students choose an applied focus while at UNC. New cohorts are admitted during the fall of even years (i.e. 2022).
2. University of Nebraska – Omaha, Nebraska
Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,138/year in-state and $14,760/year out-of-state
Points: 10
The top master’s in industrial/organizational psychology offered by the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Nebraska Omaha is a two-year program available as an MA or MS. Students planning a career in an applied setting can complete the MS program which includes a practicum experience. Those planning to pursue a PhD can complete the MA which requires a thesis. MA students are expected to continue their studies in the PhD program. Course offerings include:
- Personnel Selection
- Criterion Development and Performance Appraisal
- Theory of Measurement and Design
1. Salem State University – Salem, Massachusetts
Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $2,520/year in-state and $4,140/year out-of-state
Points: 10
Our top choice for a high-value graduate degree in industrial/organizational psychology is offered by Salem State University. Salem offers the only I/O psychology program in the Boston area. The curriculum follows SIOP guidelines and places a strong emphasis on quantitative research. Courses come from both science and business with additional course offerings in HR and organizational development. All students complete a 300-clock hour internship that gives students practical experience in areas like personnel testing and corporate performance. Full-time students can complete their degree in about two years while part-time students typically finish in three to four years.
Related Resources:
- 30 Great Scholarships, Grants & Awards for Industrial-Organizational Psychology
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