Bachelor’s in Organizational Psychology Program Guide

As organizations grow, they may face unexpected challenges. Quite often, it is difficult for companies to solve problems on their own because they are attached to current practices. An industrial organizational psychology degree trains you to create solutions that blend principles of psychology with management to improve efficiency and quality of life in the workplace.

Studying workplace management, productivity, and work styles helps professionals understand the current culture of an organization and areas that could be improved. Industrial organizational psychologists also uphold ethical guidelines and best practices, which means they create a positive impact on workplace culture. Organizational psychologists are found in nearly every industry, which means there are a variety environments in which to build your organizational psychology career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 8% growth in this sector by 2026, which is slightly faster than all other occupations.

Technology and the emergence of a global economy have dramatically altered workplace environments over the last two decades. This has led to an increased demand for innovative management techniques to improve efficiency. Students interested in this field have several kinds of bachelor’s programs available to them. For example, graduating high school students can pursue an on-campus degree that provides an interactive experience and networking opportunities with other emerging professionals.

On-campus programs typically offer local internship opportunities to help young aspiring professionals build their resumes. Students who are already working professionals may discover issues in their current jobs that they can tackle in a school project. Students in these situations can take advantage of distance learning programs. Earning a bachelor’s in organizational psychology online offers the same content as on-campus programs, but students get to use their current work environment as a living case study.

A bachelor’s in organizational psychology cultivates excellent communication skills, as organizational psychologists use active listening and speaking to solve complex problems every day. Students also learn to analyze systems and implement operational changes, while also exploring learning strategies, intrinsic motivation, management, and negotiation tactics to help employees become the best versions of themselves. Ultimately, a bachelor’s in organizational psychology prepares graduates to enter the workforce or pursue a terminal master’s in organizational psychology.

A bachelor’s degree in organizational psychology prepares graduates for a variety of positions in nearly every industry. For example, many organizational psychologists take management positions as workforce insight managers, evaluation and assessment analysts, talent management specialists, or HR organizational development managers. Professionals like these analyze and report workforce data to produce fact-based decisions and improve a company’s efficiency. Organizational psychologists may also be trainers and professional development specialists who educate other professionals. Finally, industrial organizational psychologists may find work as organizational effectiveness directors or development advisers.

Learn more about why to pursue an organizational psychology major here.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Completing a bachelor’s degree is no small endeavor, which is why you should identify what you need — both personally and professionally — from any prospective school. Most bachelor’s degrees in organizational psychology require 120 credits, which include a mix of foundational and major-specific coursework. If you know what industry you’d like to work in, you may want to inquire about relevant elective courses that can provide you with a competitive advantage. You should also identify how much time you want to invest into your education. For example, traditional bachelor degree programs take four years to complete; however, online organizational psychology degrees may offer modified, eight-week semesters that allow students to complete their degree in less time.

Students who can’t attend class full time may want to consider part-time attendance, which is usually an option available for both traditional and online programs. You should also consider whether a program requires internships or a capstone course; each of these provide important practical experiences, but may also mean significant time commitments that can impact your ability to work full time.

Paying for school is an important step in the program selection process. To make an educated decision, students should familiarize themselves with the factors that influence the total cost of attendance. For instance, residents attending schools in their own state get the perk of in-state tuition, and some online schools do not charge students out-of-state tuition rates at all. Students should also ensure a program is reputable by checking for accreditation.

When selecting the right organizational psychology degree, students need to make sure the program is accredited. Accreditation is a validation process universities undergo to ensure the coursework they offer adequately prepares graduates for the professions they’re entering. In the United States, there are two types of accreditation: institutional and specialized. Institutional accreditation evaluates all programs offered by a university, while specialized accreditors evaluate a specific content area.

Students who wish to obtain a psychology degree should look for programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), the most respected accrediting organization for psychology. The National Association of Psychologists also promotes professional competence and quality education in the field. Additionally, students need to consider whether a school holds regional accreditation — especially at the bachelor’s level — by organizations like the Higher Learning Commission and Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

After narrowing down the list of schools, students must apply by submitting test scores, transcripts, essays, and application fees. While some counselors suggest applying to six to eight schools, there is no set number. Instead, students should make sure they meet the requirements of all programs they’re considering — especially since it costs money to apply.

In general, applications request a copy of the student’s high school transcripts, extracurricular activities, honors awards, SAT and ACT scores, FAFSA information, and entrance essays. While most of the application process is repetitive, the entrance essays can vary. It is a good idea to begin applications well ahead of deadline dates to ensure you submit them on time. Students should also see which schools use the Common Application, which allows students to complete one application that is then sent to multiple schools.

Industrial organizational psychology degree programs introduce students to foundational content that prepares them for entry-level positions in any industry. While the curricula may be similar across programs, school culture and department objectives also influence the rigor of each program. For instance, a psychology school may go much further in-depth than a university that offers multiple programs or is not well known for their psychology program.

Because bachelor’s degrees prepare graduates for entry-level positions, all programs provide a foundation in the discipline. Major coursework will vary, however, according to an individual school or program’s areas of emphasis. In general, many of the courses listed below are offered across all organizational psychology degrees.

Bachelor’s in organizational psychology programs require about 120 credits to graduate, which can take four years of full-time study to complete. If students would like to graduate sooner, taking additional classes each semester or during the summer can help. For those students who can only attend school part time, their program may extend to five or more years.

It should be noted that many accelerated programs are offered by online psychology degree programs. These degree tracks have shorter terms and students work straight through the summer. Distance learning programs also use asynchronous learning, which provides flexible coursework and due dates to accommodate working professionals. While students have the freedom to work at their own pace, you should honestly assess whether a self-paced program is right for you. Many programs allow students to complete coursework when it suits them best, which means you must be self-motivated and self-directed. Falling behind in courses impacts one’s graduation timeline, and can mean higher costs in the long-run.

The average cost of a bachelor’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology programs range anywhere from $39,000 to $175,000. To accurately gauge costs, students should identify what their personal requirements are for an ideal undergraduate experience. Students who attend school online can find affordable programs, as schools without the overhead costs to maintain buildings or dormitories have less expenses. On the other hand, students may save on tuition if they attend school in their home state. When students have residency, they usually pay less money than out-of-state students. Additionally, students should factor housing costs and meal plans, as well as the costs associated with commuting from home.

In general, private schools cost more than public schools, regardless of a student’s residency. You can also explore whether a local community college features any transfer agreements with larger universities. Many community colleges have sister universities that accept all of their credits, thereby reducing overall tuition costs. In this scenario, students complete general course requirements for a fraction of the cost, and then transfer to a university to complete their bachelor’s degree.

This organization encourages practitioners at all levels to apply the scientist-practitioner model in workplace settings. Members network and have access to the latest research regarding assessment, diversity, and leadership development.

This organization encourages members to enhance their understanding of psychology. Members have access to professional development, internships, conferences, and networking opportunities.

This organization helps professionals stay abreast of psychology-related aspects in current social issues. Students who join have access to webinars, grants, and mentors.

As the oldest international association of psychologists, this organization allows professionals at all stages of their career to network and share current information regarding applied psychology.

Psychological science is used in the workplace everyday. This organization provides access to current research journals and networking opportunities that are valuable to organizational psychology students. Members have additional access to professional development and career support.

Students and professionals alike should consider joining organizations that help with the various aspects of organizational psychology employment. By joining, students have access to professionals who can become mentors, while emerging professionals also have networking opportunities. Once students enter their professional fields, many professional organizations support their members by offering continuing education coursework, career advice, and other job opportunities.