Industrial-Organizational Psychology Concentration in Psychology
An industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology concentration focuses on applying psychological principles to workplace challenges including hiring, employee motivation, organizational development, and performance management. It typically builds on the psychology program core and adds courses in personnel selection, training, and organizational behavior.
Quick Answers
What is an industrial-organizational psychology concentration in psychology?
An I-O psychology concentration is a focused set of courses within a psychology program that emphasizes workplace behavior, employee selection, training, and organizational effectiveness.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover personnel psychology, organizational behavior, research methods for workplace settings, and leadership.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Psychology Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Workplace behavior, employee selection, organizational development
- Degree levels: Commonly available at bachelor’s and master’s level
- Career alignment: Industrial-Organizational Psychologist ($109,840 median, BLS May 2024)
- Growth outlook: 6.3% projected growth through 2034 (BLS)
- Online availability: Available at many accredited programs
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Psychology Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Personnel Psychology | Employee selection, assessment, and performance evaluation |
| Organizational Behavior | Group dynamics, culture, and organizational change |
| Training & Development | Designing and evaluating workplace training programs |
| Leadership & Motivation | Theories of leadership effectiveness and employee motivation |
| Research Methods for I-O | Survey design, program evaluation, and data analysis |
| Workplace Ethics & Law | Employment law, fairness, and ethical considerations in HR |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How psychology concentrations compare
| Concentration | Focus Area | Related BLS Career | Median Salary (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychology | Assessment, diagnosis, treatment | Clinical & Counseling Psychologist | $95,830 |
| Counseling Psychology | Therapeutic support, wellness | Marriage & Family Therapist | $63,780 |
| Cognitive Psychology | Memory, perception, cognition | School Psychologist | $86,930 |
| Developmental Psychology | Lifespan development | Educational & Career Counselor | $65,140 |
| Industrial-Organizational | Workplace behavior, HR | I-O Psychologist | $109,840 |
| Social Psychology | Group behavior, social influence | Mental Health Counselor | $59,190 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.