Industrial/Organizational psychologists are versatile behavioral scientists specializing in Human Behavior in the work place. Industrial/-Organizational (called I/O) Psychologists recognize the interdependence of individuals, organizations, and society---increasing government influences, growing consumer awareness, skill shortages, and the changing nature of the work force. I/O psychologists are (1) scientists who derive principles of individual group and organizational behavior through research; (2) consultants and staff psychologists who develop scientific knowledge and apply it to the solution of problems at work; and (3) teachers who train in the research and application of Industrial/Organizational Psychology.

I/O psychologists generally work in industrial settings and hold job titles such as the following: (1) Staff Member, Manager, Director, or Vice President of: Personnel, Human Resources, Organizational Planning, Personnel Development, Organizational Development, Personnel Research, Management Development, Employee Relations, Training, Affirmative Action; (2) Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor of: Psychology, Management, Organizational Behavior, Industrial Relations; (3) Management Consultant; (4) Behavioral Scientist.

B.A./B.S. degree-holders may be employable in lower level positions in Personnel and Human Resource Departments. An individual with a master's or doctoral degree may seek employment in business, industry, universities, government, research organizations, consulting firms, and other organizations. Master's level credentials are more common to middle-management positions and will enhance the likelihood of being hired for entry-level professional work. A doctoral degree is required to be licensed as a Psychologist and will qualify you for the full range of job opportunities.

Students interested in I/O psychology should complete a broad program of undergraduate courses, including statistics and research design (including clinical and social research methods), learning cognition, social psychology, motivation, I/O psychology, tests and measurement, personnel training, and introductory course work in management and computer/decision science. The GMU Psychology Department has a M.A. and a Ph.D. program in I/O psychology.