M.A. in Secondary Education
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Secondary Education at Roosevelt University is an intensiv...
M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Chicago, Illinois
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology is typically a two-year, in-person program delivered on the Chicago campus. It aims to equip students with the statistical and critical thinking skills needed to diagnose and solve problems related to morale, recruitment, productivity, and overall organizational effectiveness. Roosevelt also offers a unique dual degree option, allowing students to earn both an M.A. in I/O Psychology and an MBA, further broadening their business acumen. Admissions are open for fall and spring start dates, and the full-time course delivery meets F1 visa requirements for international students.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program at Roosevelt University is STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students, as it makes them eligible for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension after graduation. This allows for a longer period of post-graduation work experience in the U.S., enhancing their career opportunities.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of I/O psychology principles and their application. Core courses often include "Organizational Psychology," "Advanced Research Methods," "Advanced Statistics," "Consulting Skills," "Employee Testing," "Training & Development," "Leadership & Motivation," and "Occupational Health Psychology." The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, with opportunities for internships and applied projects. Students are required to have a strong undergraduate background in psychology, including courses in statistics and research methods, to be admitted to the program.
Research Focus: The M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at Roosevelt University strongly adheres to the scientist-practitioner model. This means that a significant research focus is embedded throughout the curriculum. Students are rigorously trained in research methodology and quantitative approaches, enabling them to conduct empirical-evidenced research to address practical organizational issues. This focus prepares graduates to design studies, analyze data, and critically evaluate research to inform effective interventions and solutions in the workplace. Students may also have opportunities to work as associate consultants for the Organizational Effectiveness Consulting Center, applying classroom knowledge to real-world workplace problems.
Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University places a high priority on industry engagement for its I/O Psychology program. Situated in downtown Chicago, the university benefits from its proximity to numerous Fortune 500 companies and consulting firms, creating abundant opportunities for internships and jobs. Graduates are prepared for roles in organizational consulting, people analytics, and human resources. The program's long-standing history (awarding its first I/O psychology degree in 1987) has resulted in an impressive alumni network working at top companies such as Alexia Brothers, BMO Harris Bank, Deloitte, Delta Airlines, KPMG, and TransUnion. This strong network and emphasis on real-world application ensure graduates are workforce-ready.
Global Perspective: Roosevelt University fosters a global perspective by attracting a diverse community of students from various backgrounds, including international students. While the core curriculum focuses on I/O psychology principles applicable within the U.S. context, the scientific and methodological training provided is universally transferable. The skills learned in diagnosing and solving organizational challenges, understanding human behavior in the workplace, and enhancing effectiveness are valuable in any global marketplace. The dual MA in I/O Psychology and MBA program, for instance, explicitly mentions that its graduates are sought out by major organizations because "they enter the workforce informed about the realities of a global marketplace," highlighting the program's implicit global relevance.
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 18864
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $42
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.
An M.A. in Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology from Roosevelt University provides a powerful blend of psychological theory and business acumen, preparing graduates for diverse and impactful roles in the modern workforce. The program's STEM designation and strong industry connections in Chicago offer a competitive edge in the job market.
Organizational Development (OD) Consultant: Graduates work with organizations to improve effectiveness, facilitate change, and enhance overall health. This can involve designing interventions related to culture, leadership, team dynamics, and strategic planning. They might work internally for a large corporation or externally for a consulting firm.
Talent Management Specialist/Manager: These professionals focus on attracting, developing, motivating, and retaining top talent within an organization. This includes areas like workforce planning, succession planning, performance management, career development, and employee engagement.
People Analytics Specialist/Manager: Leveraging the program's strong statistical and research training, graduates analyze HR data to identify trends, predict outcomes (e.g., turnover, performance), and provide data-driven insights to inform talent strategies. This role is increasingly vital in modern organizations.
Training and Development Specialist/Manager: Graduates design, deliver, and evaluate training programs that enhance employee skills, knowledge, and abilities. They might focus on leadership development, technical skills, compliance training, or onboarding programs to improve organizational performance.
Assessment and Selection Specialist: These experts develop and validate assessment tools (e.g., psychological tests, interviews, simulations) used in hiring and promotion decisions. They ensure that selection processes are fair, legally defensible, and accurately predict job performance.
Human Resources (HR) Business Partner/Lead: While not exclusively I/O roles, many graduates transition into senior HR positions. They leverage their understanding of organizational behavior and employee motivation to partner with business leaders, addressing human capital challenges and aligning HR strategies with business goals.
Change Management Specialist: With expertise in organizational psychology, graduates help companies navigate significant transitions, such as mergers, new technology implementations, or shifts in strategy. They focus on minimizing resistance and ensuring smooth adoption of new processes.
Employee Engagement Specialist: Focusing on fostering a positive and productive work environment, these professionals design and implement initiatives to measure and improve employee morale, satisfaction, and commitment. This often involves conducting surveys, facilitating focus groups, and developing recognition programs.
Leadership Development Consultant/Coach: Graduates can work with individual leaders or leadership teams to enhance their effectiveness. This involves assessing leadership styles, providing feedback, and developing tailored coaching or training programs to cultivate stronger leadership capabilities within an organization.
Survey Research Analyst (Applied Settings): Beyond internal organizational surveys, graduates can work for market research firms, polling organizations, or consulting companies that conduct surveys for various clients. Their expertise in survey design, data analysis, and psychometrics is highly valuable for gathering reliable insights.
