A master’s in organizational psychology prepares students for careers in human resources, organizational development, and consulting. Graduates can pursue roles such as human resources manager, who make an average salary of $130,000 annually. Other possible roles include organizational consultant or talent development specialist, with average salaries ranging from $80,000 to $110,000 per year.
Typically completed in two to three years, the program’s average cost varies but falls within the range of $12,000 to $30,000, as per the National Center for Education Statistics. Discover how these top programs blend psychological principles with business acumen to shape organizational culture, improve employee satisfaction, and enhance workplace effectiveness.
How to Choose a Master’s in Organizational Psychology Degree Program
Choose your area of study
In selecting your area of study for a master’s in organizational psychology, consider concentrations like industrial-organizational psychology, organizational development, or human resources management. Reflect on your career goals and interests to determine the best fit. Each specialization offers unique coursework and opportunities for specialization. Whether you’re interested in employee training, organizational change, or talent management, choosing the right area of study is crucial for shaping your academic and professional journey.
Research schools and programs
Thoroughly researching schools and programs is essential for finding the best fit for your master’s program. Compile a list of institutions offering the program and evaluate factors such as curriculum, faculty expertise, and accreditation status. Consider how the program is presented — online or on-campus — as well as location and specialization options. Dive into student reviews and alumni outcomes to gauge program satisfaction and success rates. It’s always a good idea to contact admissions counselors or faculty members to gather additional insights and ask questions.
Prepare for tests and applications
Familiarize yourself with each potential program’s admission requirements, which may include standardized test scores like the GRE, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Dedicate time to study for any required exams and aim to showcase your academic abilities and commitment to the field in your application materials. If necessary, work with a tutor to help you improve your test-taking skills. Seek guidance from mentors or admissions counselors, and ensure all materials are submitted before the deadline to maximize your chances of acceptance.
Select your program
Selecting the right program for your degree is a pivotal step. You will want to consider factors such as accreditation, program format, specialization options, and faculty expertise. Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it aligns with your career goals and interests. Look for extra features like research opportunities, internship placements, or industry partnerships. Weigh factors like location, program reputation, and the strength of the alumni network. Take the time to compare programs and consider visiting campuses or attending virtual information sessions to help you make an informed decision.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Your first step in determining how you’ll pay for your degree is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to explore federal financial aid opportunities such as loans and work-study programs. Research scholarships, grants, and assistantships available through the program or external sources. Investigate institutional scholarships and tuition reimbursement programs your employer offers, if applicable. Consider part-time employment or online work opportunities to supplement your income. Develop a budget that will carry you through your years of study and explore payment plans to manage expenses.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Organizational Psychology Degree Programs
intelligent score 99.73
Award
Rankings
#1 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#11 Best Value Schools
#12 College Rank
School Information
Salem, MA
Graduation Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: 90%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $140
Out-of-State: $230
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
978-542-6000
Delivery Format
Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
intelligent score 96.13
Award
Rankings
#2 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#5 College Rank
#15 Best Value Schools
School Information
Omaha, NE
Graduation Rate: 51%
Admission Rate: 87%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $353
Non-Resident: $849
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
402-554-2592
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 95.38
Award
Rankings
#2 College Rank
#3 Organizational Psychology Degrees
School Information
Charlotte, NC
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 79%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $248
Non-Resident: $1,057
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
704-687-5503
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31-36
intelligent score 95.32
Award
Rankings
#3 College Rank
#4 Organizational Psychology Degrees
School Information
Boone, NC
Graduation Rate: 74%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
51
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $282
Non-Resident: $1,157
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
828-262-2130
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
51
intelligent score 95.03
Award
Rankings
#5 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#9 College Rank
School Information
Athens, GA
Graduation Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 40%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $829
Out-of-State: $1,508
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
706-542-8266
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 94.24
Award
Rankings
#6 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#14 College Rank
School Information
Saint Cloud, MN
Graduation Rate: 51%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
41
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $516
Non-Resident: $784
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
320-308-2244
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
41
intelligent score 92.87
Award
Rankings
#8 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#13 College Rank
#16 Best Value Schools
School Information
Seattle, WA
Graduation Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 92%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
66
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$852
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
206-281-2091
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
66
intelligent score 91.83
Award
Rankings
#7 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#24 College Rank
School Information
Highland Heights, KY
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 80%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $567
Non-Resident: $870
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
859-572-6364
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 91.62
Award
Rankings
#9 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#15 College Rank
#17 Best Value Schools
School Information
Albany, NY
Graduation Rate: 66%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $608
Out-of-State: $1,119
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
518-442-3980
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 91.33
Award
Rankings
#6 College Rank
#11 Organizational Psychology Degrees
#13 Best Value Schools
School Information
Montclair, NJ
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 91%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$809
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
973-655-5147
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 91.09
Award
Rankings
School Information
Riverside, CA
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$768
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
951-343-4249
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 90.12
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chicago, IL
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 92%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,013
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
877-277-5978
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 88.47
Award
Rankings
School Information
College Station, TX
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $803
Non-Resident: $1,345
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
979-845-1060
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-33
intelligent score 86.52
Award
Rankings
School Information
Los Angeles, CA
Graduation Rate: 13.60%
Admission Rate: 37%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
40
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,368
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-721-8072
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
40
intelligent score 85.78
Award
Rankings
School Information
Orlando, FL
Graduation Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 36%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
38
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $288
Out-of-State: $1,073
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
407-823-2766
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
38
intelligent score 84.9
Award
Rankings
School Information
Mankato, MN
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 69%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
44
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $510
Non-Resident: $765
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-722-0544
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
44
intelligent score 84.43
Award
Rankings
School Information
San Jose, CA
Graduation Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 84%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$598
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
408-924-5600
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 83.28
Award
Rankings
School Information
Mount Pleasant, MI
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 77%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $758
Non-Resident: ?$957
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
989-774-4723
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 81.41
Award
Rankings
School Information
West Haven, CT
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,055
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
203-932-7440
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 81.24
Award
Rankings
School Information
Kalamazoo, MI
Graduation Rate: 60%
Admission Rate: 83%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $764
Non-Resident: $1,147
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
269-387-4500
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 80.75
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hempstead, NY
Graduation Rate: 63%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
44
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,630
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
516-463-4723
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
44
intelligent score 79.17
Award
Rankings
School Information
Elmhurst, IL
Graduation Rate: 69%
Admission Rate: 71%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$920
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
630-617-3400
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 76.82
Award
Rankings
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,101
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
212-998-8050
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 75.04
Award
Rankings
School Information
West Hartford, CT
Graduation Rate: 61%
Admission Rate: 79%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$726
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
860-768-4100
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 74.41
Award
Rankings
School Information
Springfield, MO
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
47
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $415
Non-Resident: $761
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
417-836-4790
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
47
intelligent score 74.16
Award
Rankings
School Information
Rolla, MO
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
37
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $550
Non-Resident: $1,000
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
573-341-4937
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
37
intelligent score 74.11
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fairfield, CT
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 66%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$850
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
203-365-7619
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 73.18
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fort Collins, CO
Graduation Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 90%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
38
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $620
Non-Resident: $1,520
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
970-491-6817
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
38
intelligent score 72.48
Award
Rankings
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 4%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,970
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
212-678-3710
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 70.56
Award
Rankings
School Information
Newton, MA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
Hybrid, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$950
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
617-564-9376
Delivery Format
Hybrid, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
We reviewed many master’s in organizational psychology degrees, including Master of Science (MS), Master of Arts (MA), and Master of Professional Studies (MPS) programs. These degrees have slightly different emphases, which you’ll want to consider as you evaluate programs. For instance, MS degrees tend to be more research-heavy, while MPS degrees have a stronger practical skills curriculum.
All of the institutions on our list are approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Organizational Psychology Degree Program?
In a master’s in organizational psychology program, prospective students can expect to gain advanced knowledge and skills in applying psychological principles to the workplace. Coursework typically covers topics such as organizational behavior, leadership and management, personnel psychology, and organizational development. Students learn to analyze and address issues related to employee motivation, team dynamics, organizational culture, and change management.
The program typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on enrollment status and program requirements. In some cases, you may be able to earn a master’s degree in this field in just one year.
Some programs may include in-person labs, residencies, or internships to provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Additionally, students may have opportunities for practical projects or consulting engagements with real organizations to apply their learning in a real-world setting.
Graduates emerge prepared to pursue careers in human resources, organizational development, talent management, consulting, and other roles focused on improving workplace effectiveness and employee well-being.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in organizational psychology degree program
- Organizational Behavior. Explores theories and research on individual and group behavior within organizational contexts. Topics may include motivation, leadership, communication, decision-making, and organizational culture. Students analyze case studies and apply psychological principles to understand and address workplace dynamics and challenges.
- Personnel Selection and Assessment. Covers methods and techniques for recruiting, selecting and evaluating employees in organizational settings. Students learn about job analysis, assessment tools, interviewing techniques, and legal and ethical considerations in personnel selection. Emphasis is placed on identifying and implementing effective strategies to match individuals with job roles and organizational needs.
- Organizational Development and Change. Examines theories and practices related to organizational change and development. Topics may include organizational diagnosis, intervention strategies, resistance to change, and the evaluation of change initiatives. Students learn to design and implement interventions to improve organizational effectiveness, foster employee engagement, and manage transitions in the workplace.
- Training and Development. Focuses on designing, implementing and evaluating training programs to enhance employee knowledge and abilities. Students learn about needs assessment, instructional design, delivery methods, and training evaluation techniques. The course emphasizes evidence-based practices and addresses the role of training in supporting organizational goals and employee development.
Master’s in Organizational Psychology Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in organizational psychology degree program?
To apply for your program, gather required materials such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. Many programs require standardized test scores like the GRE. Ensure all materials are submitted before the application deadline. Additionally, schedule a meeting with an admissions counselor to discuss program specifics, admission requirements, and any questions you may have. Their insights can provide valuable guidance and ensure your application meets all criteria. Taking this step can increase your chances of a successful application and help you navigate the admissions process smoothly.
How much does a master's in organizational psychology degree cost?
The cost of a master’s in organizational psychology degree varies depending on factors such as program format, institution, and location. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, average tuition costs for these programs range from $12,000 to $30,000, with private institutions generally costing more than public. Students should also consider additional expenses such as textbooks, technology fees, and possibly travel costs for in-person residencies or internships. Online programs may offer flexibility but could incur additional technology fees or require proctored exam fees.
How long does it take to earn a master's in organizational psychology degree?
Earning a master’s in organizational psychology typically takes two to three years, depending on factors such as enrollment status and program structure. Full-time enrollment often accelerates completion, while part-time enrollment may extend the timeline. Additionally, online programs may offer more flexibility, allowing students to pace their studies and potentially complete the degree at a faster or slower rate compared to on-campus programs. The total number of required credits also impacts program length, with some programs requiring around 36 to 48 credits for completion. Prospective students should consider their personal commitments and academic goals when determining the most suitable enrollment status and program format for their degree program.