Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology Industrial/Organizational Psychology courses
Industrial/Organizational Psychology coursework overview
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- total quarter credits: 84
- Quarter length: 10 weeks
- Course length: 10 weeks
- Break: 3 weeks between quarters
Industrial/Organizational Psychology course requirements
- Core 7 courses
- Specialization 7 courses
- Residencies 3 courses
- Dissertation Minimum 4 courses
Example program course sequence
This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In GuidedPath, the number of courses you take in a quarter and time it takes to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.
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PSY7015
Core Foundations of Doctoral Studies in Applied Psychology
4 quarter credits
Students improve their ability to navigate the virtual campus and become familiar with library, career center, and writing center resources. Students identify the educational steps and requirements necessary to successfully completing the doctoral degree program in their chosen specialization; review their specialization's requirements, associated professional roles and organizations, and ethics and professional standards; and articulate a professional identity based on doctoral-level psychology training. For PhD in Psychology students only. Must be taken during the student's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
PSY6710
Specialization Course Principles of Industrial/Organizational Psychology
5 quarter credits
In this course, students identify and confirm theories and research of industrial/organizational psychology. Students examine the various psychological constructs affecting individuals, groups, teams, and organizations in the workplace and explore ethical principles as they relate to decision-making processes. Students also evaluate the differences between industrial and organizational psychology and explore various assessment methods, models, and interventions applicable across workplace settings.
5 quarter credits
RSCH7020
Core Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Research in a Modern World
4 quarter credits
Students evaluate their own biases with an emphasis on self-awareness and reflection on cultural identity and ethics in research. Students will develop strategies to apply and incorporate ethical and multicultural principles and influences in research and publications.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7864
Core Quantitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Students gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Students utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses.
4 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization course - Specialization Course
5 quarter credits
RSCH7868
Core Qualitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Students investigate essential concepts and methods for conducting qualitative research. Students engage in hands-on practice with qualitative research techniques, focusing on the appropriate applications, strengths, and limitations of various qualitative approaches, sampling methods, and analysis strategies. Throughout the course, students develop an understanding of ethical considerations, particularly when researching vulnerable and diverse populations, and strategies to protect human subjects. Students also examine the alignment of qualitative approaches with sampling and analysis approaches to ensure rigor and produce meaningful insights. Prerequisite(s): PhD in Psychology students must have completed RSCH7020.
4 quarter credits
PSY7105
Core Building a Doctoral Foundation: History, Theory, and Topics in Psychology
4 quarter credits
Students explore historical and contemporary schools of thought such as behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic psychology. In particular, students begin the process of becoming independent researchers by developing a dissertation topic that is appropriate for their specialization and aligned with foundational theories within their chosen school of thought. Students will begin building a theoretical foundation to support their future dissertation research study. For PhD students in Psychology only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): RSCH7020 or PSY5110; RSCH7864 or PSY7864; RSCH7868 or PSY7868.
4 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization course - Specialization Course
5 quarter credits
PSY-V8925
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Topic Ideation
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners develop and evaluate proposed topic areas and theories for their doctoral project. Learners analyze the literature on potential topics to assess relevance to the discipline and potential methods to use in the doctoral project. Learners gain an understanding of the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to complete the final project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through a final assessment. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For PhD in Behavior Analysis and PhD in Psychology learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: PhD in Psychology learners must have completed PSY7105 or PSY7115. PhD in Behavior Analysis learners must have completed PSY8301, PSY8302, PSY8303, PSY8352, RSCH7860.
3 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization course - Specialization Course
5 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization course - Specialization Course
5 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization course - Specialization Course
5 quarter credits
PSY7870
Core Doctoral Research Design
4 quarter credits
Students synthesize knowledge of quantitative research methodology and use it to develop a quantitative research design that may form the basis of their dissertation research project. Students compare their quantitative research design to a previously developed qualitative design on a similar topic and identify and justify the methodology most appropriate for investigating their research topic. For PsyD and PhD in Psychology students only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): RSCH-V8925.
4 quarter credits
PSY-V8926
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Topic Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply advanced research and writing skills through the development of a detailed project framework based on work in prior residencies. Learners develop a project framework that includes methodological and/or research design, sampling or participant recruitment plan, intervention plan (if applicable), strategies for data collection, analysis, and outcomes of the project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through an assessment of the project framework, which is finalized once the learner enters the advanced doctoral stage of the program. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For PhD in Behavior Analysis and PhD in Psychology learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: PSY-V8925. PhD in Psychology learners must have completed PSY7870; or PSY8625 and RSCH7868. PhD in Behavior Analysis learners must have completed PSY8307.
3 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization course - Specialization Course
5 quarter credits
Core Choose a Core Course
4 quarter credits
PSY-V8927
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Framework Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply advanced research and writing skills through the development of a detailed project framework based on work in prior residencies. Learners develop a project framework that includes methodological and/or research design, sampling or participant recruitment plan, intervention plan (if applicable), strategies for data collection, analysis, and outcomes of the project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through an assessment of the project framework, which is finalized once the learner enters the advanced doctoral stage of the program. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For PhD in Behavior Analysis and PhD in Psychology learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY8307 or PSY7870 or PSY8658 or RSCH8625 or PSY8625 or RSCH8635 or PSY8635; PSY-V8926; and completion of all didactic coursework.
3 quarter credits
Dissertation PSY9960: Dissertation Courseroom - Dissertation
3 quarter credits
Dissertation PSY9960: Dissertation Courseroom - Dissertation
3 quarter credits
Dissertation PSY9960: Dissertation Courseroom - Dissertation
3 quarter credits
Dissertation PSY9960: Dissertation Courseroom - Dissertation
3 quarter credits
Total
At least 84 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Core course requirements
Complete at least 28 quarter credits in the core courses category. Choose from the courses shown below.
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RSCH7864
Core Quantitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Students gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Students utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7868
Core Qualitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Students investigate essential concepts and methods for conducting qualitative research. Students engage in hands-on practice with qualitative research techniques, focusing on the appropriate applications, strengths, and limitations of various qualitative approaches, sampling methods, and analysis strategies. Throughout the course, students develop an understanding of ethical considerations, particularly when researching vulnerable and diverse populations, and strategies to protect human subjects. Students also examine the alignment of qualitative approaches with sampling and analysis approaches to ensure rigor and produce meaningful insights. Prerequisite(s): PhD in Psychology students must have completed RSCH7020.
4 quarter credits
PSY7015
Core Foundations of Doctoral Studies in Applied Psychology
4 quarter credits
Students improve their ability to navigate the virtual campus and become familiar with library, career center, and writing center resources. Students identify the educational steps and requirements necessary to successfully completing the doctoral degree program in their chosen specialization; review their specialization's requirements, associated professional roles and organizations, and ethics and professional standards; and articulate a professional identity based on doctoral-level psychology training. For PhD in Psychology students only. Must be taken during the student's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
PSY7105
Core Building a Doctoral Foundation: History, Theory, and Topics in Psychology
4 quarter credits
Students explore historical and contemporary schools of thought such as behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic psychology. In particular, students begin the process of becoming independent researchers by developing a dissertation topic that is appropriate for their specialization and aligned with foundational theories within their chosen school of thought. Students will begin building a theoretical foundation to support their future dissertation research study. For PhD students in Psychology only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): RSCH7020 or PSY5110; RSCH7864 or PSY7864; RSCH7868 or PSY7868.
4 quarter credits
PSY7870
Core Doctoral Research Design
4 quarter credits
Students synthesize knowledge of quantitative research methodology and use it to develop a quantitative research design that may form the basis of their dissertation research project. Students compare their quantitative research design to a previously developed qualitative design on a similar topic and identify and justify the methodology most appropriate for investigating their research topic. For PsyD and PhD in Psychology students only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): RSCH-V8925.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7020
Core Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Research in a Modern World
4 quarter credits
Students evaluate their own biases with an emphasis on self-awareness and reflection on cultural identity and ethics in research. Students will develop strategies to apply and incorporate ethical and multicultural principles and influences in research and publications.
4 quarter credits
RSCH8625
Core Advanced Quantitative Statistics
4 quarter credits
Students investigate statistics commonly used in quantitative dissertations including multiple regression, factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi-square, and logistic regression. Students also analyze statistics such as exploratory factor analysis that facilitate the selection of reliable and valid surveys used in dissertations. Additionally, students gain an understanding of power analysis to determine the minimum sample size needed for a dissertation. Proficiency with statistical software is expected. Prerequisite(s): PSY-V8926 or PSY-R8926; RSCH7864 or PSY7864.
4 quarter credits
RSCH8635
Core Advanced Qualitative Analysis
4 quarter credits
Students further explore the philosophical underpinnings of qualitative research and inquiry and investigate effective execution of the six school-approved dissertation research methodologies: ethnography, case study, grounded-theory phenomenology, heuristics, and generic qualitative research. Students examine primary source references, books, and journal articles written by the developers of the six methodologies and gain an understanding of their nuances and applications. Students gain skills necessary to develop and conduct their own qualitative study for a dissertation. Prerequisite(s): PSY-V8926 or RSCH-V8926.
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 84 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Specialization course requirements
Complete at least 35 quarter credits from the specialization courses shown below.
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PSY6710
Specialization Course Principles of Industrial/Organizational Psychology
5 quarter credits
In this course, students identify and confirm theories and research of industrial/organizational psychology. Students examine the various psychological constructs affecting individuals, groups, teams, and organizations in the workplace and explore ethical principles as they relate to decision-making processes. Students also evaluate the differences between industrial and organizational psychology and explore various assessment methods, models, and interventions applicable across workplace settings.
5 quarter credits
PSY6720
Specialization Course Psychology of Leadership
5 quarter credits
Students gain a comprehensive review of leadership theories and factors, including leader development, leadership styles, and societal issues relevant to leadership in various settings. Students research and evaluate leadership principles and apply leadership theory to clinical, counseling, educational, organizational, and sports settings. Students examine case studies; investigate and evaluate the processes and best practices of leader development; analyze their own leadership strengths; and relate this knowledge to their professional practice. Prerequisite(s): Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option students must have completed PSYC3700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better.
5 quarter credits
PSY6730
Specialization Course Consultation Psychology
5 quarter credits
Students in this course evaluate current theories of psychological consultation and analyze the variety of roles and interventions that engage psychological consultants in an applied setting. Students examine psychological consultants' contributions to clinical, educational, industrial, and organizational settings and demonstrate the competencies required to evaluate and conduct psychological consultative services through applied case work, practice, and self-appraisal. Other course topics include consultation ethics, models of consultation research, and the dynamics of the consultant-client relationship.
5 quarter credits
PSY6740
Specialization Course Industrial/Organizational Psychology Practices in Personnel and Human Resource Management
5 quarter credits
Students in this course analyze psychologically based methods, tools, and practices used in industrial/organizational psychology, including needs assessment, personnel selection, job analysis, performance management and appraisal, organizational functioning, motivation, training, and management, in the context of their application to human resource management. Students identify the underlying psychological theories, research, and approaches related to human resource management and synthesize these theories and research to develop evidence-based application grounded in science and scholarship. Throughout the course, students gain and demonstrate a working knowledge of organizational systems and culture.
5 quarter credits
PSY8770
Specialization Course Psychology of Motivation and Performance
5 quarter credits
In this course, students explore various psychological theories, concepts, and principles of motivation. Students evaluate the factors of motivation that influence personal and professional performance, success, and satisfaction. Students also synthesize research in order to identify, assess, and integrate motivational strategies and apply models of performance enhancement.
5 quarter credits
PSY8626
Specialization Course Multivariate Statistics: Theory and Application
5 quarter credits
Students investigate the theory and application of multivariate statistics, including discriminant analysis, factor (components) analysis, multiple analysis of variance (MANOVA), and logistic regression. Using JASP, students perform and interpret the results of these analyses. Students also apply multivariate analysis, analyze and understand research results in peer-reviewed psychology journals, and utilize JASP to produce output consistent with the correct parameters and assumptions of specific multivariate procedures. In addition, students evaluate the mathematical aspects of multivariate and inferential statistics theory and application. Prerequisite(s): RSCH8625 or PSY8625.
5 quarter credits
PSY8768
Specialization Course Theory and Practice of Psychological Coaching
5 quarter credits
Students in this course study the psychological underpinnings, theoretical framework, and foundational elements of evidence-based coaching. Students explore the stages of the coaching relationship and determine an effective coaching framework to apply in different contexts, including positive psychology and Gestalt perspectives. Students also identify ethical and social issues related to evidence-based coaching. Prerequisite(s): PSY7610.
5 quarter credits
PSY8761
Specialization Course Work Analysis and Selection
5 quarter credits
This course is a comprehensive review of the major concepts, issues, and practices involved with work analysis and personnel selection. Students gain and apply knowledge of work analysis methods, legal issues in selection, considerations in evaluating the appropriate use of assessments in selection processes, and strategies for selection decision making. Students engage in hands-on activities to apply critical work analysis and selection principles. Prerequisite(s): PSY6710, PSY7610; PSY7864 or RSCH7864.
5 quarter credits
PSY8755
Specialization Course Ethical and Legal Principles of Industrial/Organizational Psychology
5 quarter credits
Students assess ethical and legal responsibilities in the workplace. Students analyze ethical dilemmas, apply relevant legal standards, and evaluate ways professionals integrate and utilize these standards to resolve workplace issues. Students build on their foundational work through the development and application of legally sound solutions that are grounded in science and scholarship to these workplace issues.
5 quarter credits
PSY7530
Specialization Course Psychology of Group Dynamics
5 quarter credits
This course provides a foundational understanding of group development, processes, and behaviors. Students evaluate current group psychology theory and research and identify the elements of effective groups to gain an understanding of the psychology of group dynamics. Topics include group formation and structure, power and influence, performance and decision making, leadership, followership, and conflict in group dynamics.
5 quarter credits
PSY7610
Specialization Course Tests and Measurements
5 quarter credits
Students investigate focuses on essential concepts, principles, applications, and social and theoretical issues of psychological testing. Students gain understanding in the construction of tests; analyze the development and use of tests in measuring aptitudes, achievement, attitudes, interests, and personality; and identify underlying theories of various tests. Students analyze the characteristics desired in psychological and educational tests, with particular emphasis on reliability and validity, and evaluate best practices and professional standards for educational and psychological testing. In addition, students assess the role of technology in delivery, administration, scoring, and interpretation of tests.
5 quarter credits
PSY8765
Specialization Course Testing and Assessment in Workplace Psychology
5 quarter credits
Students review relevant theories and research methods of workplace psychology, coaching, and consultation assessment. Students analyze the assessment process, identify assessment tools and their applications, and examine ways to evaluate and deliver assessment feedback. Topics include individual, group, and organizational assessment; psychometric testing; quantitative/qualitative principles and research methods; and ethical and social issues associated with assessment. Prerequisite(s): PSY7610.
5 quarter credits
PSY5130
Specialization Course Career Counseling Theory
5 quarter credits
This course presents a survey of the history of career counseling, the development of career counseling theory, and the basic tenets of current vocational psychology. It covers theories of career development, the relationship between training and vocation, and the application of career counseling interventions in various settings and among different student populations. Students are encouraged to participate in experiential exercises and discussion topics that may include disclosing information that is personal.
5 quarter credits
PSY8721
Specialization Course Introduction to Business Practices for Psychologists
5 quarter credits
Students identify business practices for starting, operating, and maintaining a viable consulting business. Students develop an understanding of the knowledge and skills for consulting, including preparing for a consulting career, starting and promoting a consulting business, maintaining the business, and learning how to actualize personal values and ethical acumen in their daily work. Finally, students also acquire the consulting competencies of branding, marketing, and selling, as well as building and maintaining client relationships.
5 quarter credits
Total
At least 84 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Residency course requirements
Complete at least 8 quarter credits.
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PSY-V8926
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Topic Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply advanced research and writing skills through the development of a detailed project framework based on work in prior residencies. Learners develop a project framework that includes methodological and/or research design, sampling or participant recruitment plan, intervention plan (if applicable), strategies for data collection, analysis, and outcomes of the project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through an assessment of the project framework, which is finalized once the learner enters the advanced doctoral stage of the program. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For PhD in Behavior Analysis and PhD in Psychology learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: PSY-V8925. PhD in Psychology learners must have completed PSY7870; or PSY8625 and RSCH7868. PhD in Behavior Analysis learners must have completed PSY8307.
3 quarter credits
PSY-V8927
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Framework Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply advanced research and writing skills through the development of a detailed project framework based on work in prior residencies. Learners develop a project framework that includes methodological and/or research design, sampling or participant recruitment plan, intervention plan (if applicable), strategies for data collection, analysis, and outcomes of the project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through an assessment of the project framework, which is finalized once the learner enters the advanced doctoral stage of the program. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For PhD in Behavior Analysis and PhD in Psychology learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY8307 or PSY7870 or PSY8658 or RSCH8625 or PSY8625 or RSCH8635 or PSY8635; PSY-V8926; and completion of all didactic coursework.
3 quarter credits
PSY-V8925
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Topic Ideation
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners develop and evaluate proposed topic areas and theories for their doctoral project. Learners analyze the literature on potential topics to assess relevance to the discipline and potential methods to use in the doctoral project. Learners gain an understanding of the writing, research, and critical thinking skills necessary to complete the final project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through a final assessment. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For PhD in Behavior Analysis and PhD in Psychology learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: PhD in Psychology learners must have completed PSY7105 or PSY7115. PhD in Behavior Analysis learners must have completed PSY8301, PSY8302, PSY8303, PSY8352, RSCH7860.
3 quarter credits
Total
At least 84 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Dissertation course requirements
Complete at least 12 quarter credits in the dissertation course category shown below. You must enroll in the dissertation course a minimum of three times. If you require more time to complete your dissertation, you have the option to enroll in additional sessions.
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PSY9960
Dissertation Dissertation Courseroom
3 quarter credits
This course provides students with resources, guidance, and peer and mentor support during each dissertation course as they complete the required milestones. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. Students must register for this course a minimum of four times to fulfill their specialization requirements. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY9909 or PSY9919 or PSY-V8927.
3 quarter credits
PSY9911
Dissertation Clinical Dissertation Series
5 quarter credits
The clinical dissertation series is a series of courses during which learners integrate scholarly work associated with the goals and competencies of the PsyD Clinical Psychology specialization and demonstrate proficiency in the established accreditation standards for doctoral study in the field of psychology. Dissertations that meet requirements include an applied product or program that is relevant to professional psychology, qualitative research, quantitative research, theoretical development, and program consultation such as a needs assessment. For PsyD Clinical Psychology learners only. Grading for these courses is R/NS. Courses must be taken in sequence. Learners may take PSY9911-PSY9918 concurrently with or prior to PSY8971-PSY8978. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all coursework, excluding internship courses. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
5 quarter credits
Total
At least 84 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
What can I expect in the courseroom?
Each unit consists of readings, discussions and other activities you will be expected to complete throughout the week. Most deadlines for coursework occur on Thursdays and/or Sundays but may vary by program and course. In each course, you will receive a detailed scoring guide that describes expectations for every graded assignment.
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How will I be graded?
Grades are based on your participation in weekly reading discussions and completion of assignments, based on criteria outlined in the rubric. You will also be assessed on your ability to demonstrate an understanding of expected outcomes for your program or specialization. These outcomes are based on the needs and performance standards of your field or discipline.