About Industrial and Organizational Psychology at CSUSB
CSUSB’s Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology equips you with the skills to improve employee well-being, boost organizational effectiveness, and shape better workplaces through science-based strategies.
This program blends rigorous academic coursework with a real-world externship, typically completed during the summer after your first year. You’ll gain hands-on experience applying psychological theory and research to real organizational settings—giving you a competitive advantage in both public and private sectors.
You’ll develop advanced knowledge in:
- Employee motivation and performance
- Leadership, training, and development
- Work-life balance and organizational culture
- Applied research and data-driven decision-making
Whether you’re preparing for a professional career or pursuing a Ph.D., this degree offers career-focused and research-based training to help you succeed in business, government, healthcare, or nonprofit sectors.
Careers in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
Overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Here are some roles you could hold in the field of industrial and organizational psychology (some of which may require additional training and/or education):
- Industrial/organizational psychologist
- Human resources manager
- Talent development specialist
- Training specialist
- Behavioral analyst
- Organizational development specialist
- Executive coach
- Human factors engineer/ergonomist
- Workforce analyst
- Organizational effectiveness consultant
- Educator/professor
- Researcher
Sample Courses
Motivation and Leadership
Review and critical discussion of major theories and current research of motivation and leadership in the workplace including a review of their application in work organizations.
Applied Psychological Measurement
Theories, methods, and issues of psychological measurement and assessment. Topical coverage will include test construction, test evaluation, survey development, ethics, and testing in applied settings.
Work Across the Lifespan
Theory and research on work across the lifespan, including mid and late career issues, bridge employment, and retirement during the adult years.
Meet Alum Leanne Tortez, '13
Opportunities for Students
As part of the I/O graduate program, you can join the student group, "Students Promoting Industrial/Organizational Psychology" (SPI/OP), which hosts guest speaker presentations on compelling themes in human resource management. Through committee work, newsletter contributions, and interaction with business student organizations, active members can develop connections with regional business organizations and can become a part of the SPI/OP network of future I/O professionals.
You can also consider applying for scholarships offered through the Department of Psychology, participate in student research, apply for internship and volunteer opportunities, and join a number of clubs.
Similar to Industrial and Organizational Psychology
With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.