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1. What is I-O psychology?

Industrial-organizational psychology is the scientific study of human behavior in organizations and the workplace. According to the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology, I-O psychologists apply psychological principles and research methods to solve problems related to human behavior in a wide variety of organizational settings.

At California Baptist University, the Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology program prepares students to become practitioners who enhance organizational performance and employee well-being through evidence-based strategies. We use science to transform the workplace.

2. What are the program's entry dates and application deadlines?
The I-O psychology program admits students once a year — in fall (August/September). Our priority deadline is May 15 and our final deadline is August 1 of the year you are applying to. Information regarding application deadlines for each start term can be found here.

3. How long does the admission process take?
Once an application file and/or interview is complete, applicants will typically be notified of a decision within 3–5 business days.

4. What is the GPA requirement?
Applicants are considered for admission based on GPA, transcripts, an essay OR interview, and individual considerations. Since one number cannot completely define you, we consider the total admissions packet when making admissions decisions. Any student, regardless of the type of bachelor's degree attained, can be admitted into the I-O psychology program. However, when reviewing transcripts, our minimum GPA requirement is 2.75 or higher. If your cumulative GPA falls below this, please contact your admissions counselor for additional routes that may be available.

5. Is there an accreditation for the I-O psychology program?

California Baptist University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

While there is no program-specific accreditation for I-O psychology (APA does not accredit master’s-level I-O programs), our program was intentionally designed to align with the education and training guidelines recommended by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology.

6. How long does the program take to complete?
The program is offered as a 20 month program, totaling five semesters. However, students receive an eight-week break in summer during the months of July and August.

7. When do classes meet?
The I-O psychology program is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. All classes meet in the evening, typically from 4-10 p.m. on Mondays and 6-9 p.m. on Wednesdays. This schedule is subject to change based on semester availability, in addition to summer. During the summer semester, classes are three evenings a week, typically on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5-9 p.m. to accommodate the eight-week summer break. All courses are conducted on our campus where ample free parking is available, and some courses may have slight flexibility to be taught online.

8. Am I required to have work experience to enter the program?
No. However, the I-O psychology program is designed for the working professional looking to advance professionally. Students from a variety of life and academic experience and backgrounds are integrated into classes to maximize networking and learning across generations, cultures, and industry specialties. A program-related internship is required in the final semester of the program in which 120 hours are required. Students are not placed in their internship location but are supported along the way.

9. Will I be able to get the classes I need when I need them?
As a service to our I-O psychology students, your graduate advisor will pre-register you for all of your courses, from your first semester through graduation, when you enter the program. This allows you to plan out your life without worrying about which course you should take next and which course will be offered in which semester.

10. What types of careers can I pursue with a degree in I-O psychology?

Graduates of the I-O psychology program are prepared for a wide range of careers focused on improving workplaces and organizational effectiveness. Common roles include human resources specialist, talent development manager, organizational development consultant, training and development manager, employee relations specialist, people analytics specialist, and diversity, equity and inclusion consultant.

I-O professionals work across industries such as healthcare, technology, business, government, education and nonprofit organizations, applying psychological principles to leadership development, employee engagement, team dynamics and organizational change.