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The dynamic field of industrial and organizational psychology (I/O psychology) examines the way people behave within workplaces and other structured organizations. Industrial and organizational psychologists apply behavioral science to professional practice, helping organizations optimize their human resources.
This guide profiles the role industrial and organizational psychology can play in contemporary business and employment landscapes. It also covers education, training, licensure, career data, and industrial psychologist salary to help you plan your future.
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What Is Industrial and Organizational psychology?
The American Psychological Association (APA) describes I/O psychologists as specialists in managing the human aspects of organizational dynamics. The major duties include of a :
- Analyzing employees' professional development needs and building programs to meet them
- Creating and implementing employee and organizational performance standards
- Working with management and executives to better understand customer needs and preferences
- Cooperating with employees to maximize their potential
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses have also become far more aware of the value of building a positive employee experience. To this end, I/O psychologists have also become engaged with efforts to develop healthy and rewarding workplace cultures.
Unique traits of industrial and organizational psychology include a dual focus on applied scientific practice, alongside managerial, consulting, and organizational development duties. I/O psychologists may work with consultancies or as independent professionals. Some also function as permanent employees, often within human resources departments.
Steps to Become an Industrial and Organizational Psychologist
It can take 6-8 years or more to become an I/O psychologist. Working professionals typically possess an advanced degree in industrial and organizational psychology, plus on-the-job experience.
Many states require I/O psychologists to hold licenses to practice under the "psychologist" title. Licensing standards vary by state, and the nuances are complex. You can learn more by consulting this professional resource from the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP).
Your professional journey will typically involve these steps:
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1
Earn a Bachelor's Degree
Begin by earning your bachelor's degree. Many accredited schools specifically offer undergraduate programs in industrial and organizational psychology. You can alternately pursue a bachelor's in psychology or in a business-related field with a human resources concentration.
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2
Earn a Master's Degree
Since academic programs become more specialized at the graduate level, you can readily earn a master's degree in I/O psychology. Schools commonly offer fully online options. This makes it easier to gain entry-level work experience in industrial and organizational psychology using your bachelor's credentials while you pursue advanced education.
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3
Gain Professional Experience
As the APA notes, I/O psychologists draw heavily on specialized knowledge that combines applied behavioral psychology with human resource management. Employers often look beyond academic credentials for practical experience in this area.
You can gain experience through degree programs that offer internships or practicums in industrial and organizational psychology, which are common at the master's level. You can also work in the psychology field while you study online.
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4
Consider a Doctoral Degree
A master's in industrial and organizational psychology is generally considered a professional degree in the field. However, some learners prefer to earn a doctorate.
Here's why:
- You need a Psy.D. or a Ph.D. in psychology to qualify for psychologist licensure.
- Doctoral degrees qualify professionals for roles in research and academia, enhancing career options.
- A doctorate can help you stand out from other job candidates, potentially offering competitive advantages in the industrial and organizational psychology employment market.
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5
Consider Joining a Professional Association
SIOP membership offers many benefits. You can connect with extensive professional resources, attend exclusive events, network with other members, and source work through specialized industrial and organizational psychology job boards.
Other professional associations of potential interest to I/O psychologists include:
Industrial and Organizational Psychology Licensure
Licensing is a complex topic in industrial and organizational psychology. Many I/O psychology professionals work under alternate job titles, such as:
- Business development consultant
- Executive coach
- Human resources manager
- Workforce insights analyst
Professionals who do not use "psychologist" in their job title do not generally need a license. However, you must have a license if you plan to work or market yourself as an industrial and organizational psychologist.
To obtain a psychologist's license, you'll need a doctoral degree (Psy.D. or Ph.D.) along with a specified level of supervised experience. Supervised experience requirements vary by state, but the APA reports that they fall in the range of 1,500-6,000 hours.
Job Outlook and Industrial Psychologist Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects labor market demand for industrial and organizational psychologists to rise at faster-than-average rates from 2022-2032.
In May 2023, the BLS cited a median average industrial psychologist salary of $147,420 per year. The following table offers a more detailed salary range for I/O psychologists:
| Annual Salary Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10% | $45,860 |
| 25% | $90,100 |
| Median (50%) | $147,420 |
| 75% | $219,410 |
| 90% | $219,810 |
As a growth path, I/O psychologists sometimes ascend into roles as human resources managers. According to BLS data from May 2023, top-earning human resource managers make almost $240,000 per year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Industrial and Organizational Psychology Careers
How long does it take to become an industrial and organizational psychologist?
How long it takes to become an industrial and organizational psychologist depends on the level of education you plan to pursue. If you enter the field with a master's degree, your journey will likely take at least six years. Professionals who earn doctorates in industrial and organizational psychology need about eight years or more to complete all their credentialing.
What can I do with a degree in industrial and organizational psychology?
An industrial and organizational psychology degree may qualify you for permanent roles in human resources or business development departments. Among other areas, you can also work in public relations, market research, or as an independent or firm-affiliated consultant.
Are industrial and organizational psychology professionals in demand?
The BLS projects above-average job growth for I/O psychologists from 2022-2032. Industrial and organizational psychology professionals work in multiple settings, including private enterprise, government, academia, and consulting. This profile offers I/O psychology professionals a generally strong employment outlook.
Is the industrial and organizational psychologist salary good?
BLS data from 2023 indicates median salaries of $147,420 per year for I/O psychologists. The BLS lists an annual wage of $45,860 for I/O psychologists earning in the bottom 10% and $219,810 for those in the top 90%.
Page last reviewed on March 20, 2024