Are you considering a career in industrial-organizational psychology? Earning your master’s degree in the field is an excellent way to qualify for a variety of jobs in the field.
Here, we’ll discuss the steps you need to take to earn your master’s in industrial-organizational psychology.
Step One: Choose a Degree Program
The first step in earning your master’s in industrial-organizational psychology is to choose a degree program that is right for you. You can choose to pursue a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS) degree in industrial-organizational psychology. You should research different programs to find one that fits your career goals and interests.
Step Two: Complete Prerequisite Coursework
Before you can start your master’s program, you will need to complete prerequisite coursework. This typically includes a range of psychology courses, such as statistics, research methods, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. You will also need to have a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field.
Step Three: Apply to Programs
Once you have completed the prerequisite coursework, you can start applying to programs. Most programs require students to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and GRE scores. You should apply to multiple programs to increase your chances of being accepted.
Step Four: Complete Your Master’s Program
Once you have been accepted into a program, you can start working towards your master’s degree. Most master’s programs in industrial-organizational psychology take two years to complete. During this time, you will take a range of courses, such as personnel selection and assessment, industrial psychology, and organizational development. You will also need to complete a thesis or research project.
Step Five: Take the Exam
Once you have completed your master’s program, you will need to take the Industrial-Organizational Psychology Certification Exam. This exam is administered by the
American Association of Industrial-Organizational Psychology (AAIOP). To be eligible to take the exam, you must have a master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology and at least one year of relevant work experience.
Earning your master’s in industrial-organizational psychology is an excellent way to qualify for a variety of jobs in the field. While it can be a challenging process, it is worth it in the end. Follow the steps outlined above to get started on the path to earning your master’s in industrial-organizational psychology.
