Industrial and Organizational Psychology Concentration

Psychology Applied to Work

Industrial and Organizational Psychology is the scientific study of psychology applied to work settings for the purpose of improving organization effectiveness and employee well-being.   According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, I/O psychology is expected to be the fastest growing occupation in the U.S. over the next decade with a +53% national projected growth rate and above average median salaries (www.online.onet.org).  Related occupations for I/O psychologists have projected job growth rates ranging from +8% to +22%.  (See Careers in Psychology below.)

Scientist-Practitioner Model

I/O psychologists employ a scientist-practitioner approach, utilizing research and data to make recommendations and implement improvements that enhance the effectiveness of organizations and employee well-being.  I/O psychology lies at the cross roads of psychology and business.  Maryville University offers concentrated and sequenced coursework in I/O psychology that emphasizes the application of psychological theory to practice.  The concentration culminates in an Organization Consulting course where students apply psychological theory and methods to help a real client organization improve effectiveness.  A bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in I/O uniquely prepares students for graduate programs in I/O psychology.

Careers in I/O Psychology

I/O psychologists are prepared for careers in one of the fast growing areas of:

• Selection and Assessment managers or specialists
• Succession and Talent Review managers or specialists
• Talent Assessment managers or specialists
• Leadership and Organization Development managers or specialists
• Talent Management managers or specialists
• Learning and Development  managers or specialists
• Executive Assessment and Coaching managers or consultants
• Employee Engagement managers or specialists
• Human Resource managers or specialists
• Organization Effectiveness consultants
• I/O Psychologists/Consultants
• Research Scientists/Consultants