Organizational Psychology Degree Programs

Although organizational psychology can trace its roots to the work of Frederick Taylor and Henry Gantt in the late 1800s, businesses have really embraced it as a niche skill set for managers and specialists in the past few decades. Organizational psychology degree programs typically appeal to highly skilled managers and practitioners who are fascinated by the ability to leverage the talents of workers into productive, profitable ventures.

Organizational Psychology Degree Programs

This career path may appeal to business leaders who want to understand the motivations of successful companies. The discipline also may attract psychology professionals that prefer the business sector to academia or health care. An online degree in organizational psychology usually builds upon on the foundations from a bachelor's degree program or even business school. Therefore, organizational psychology degree programs may include coursework in group psychology, leadership, statistical methods, research methodology, communication, and more. An online education in organizational psychology can lead to a bachelor's, master's, or even a doctorate-level degree.

Organizational Psychology Career & Salary Options

Graduates of organizational psychology degree programs typically enjoy access to a variety of career options with strong compensation plans. Dedicated organizational psychologists may teach at colleges or work in the human resources departments of larger organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, organizational psychologists earned a median annual salary of $80,820 in 2007.

Online Education Options

Because this field tends to attract working professionals, like managers and company leaders, students can choose from a growing number of online degree options. In many cases, organizational psychology courses require field assignments that can be staged within students' own workplaces. Therefore, an online education in organizational psychology can benefit both students and employers who can use the results of studies and assignments to help teams work more effectively.

Joe Taylor Jr. is an internal business consultant for a Fortune 500 company, who writes about finance, culture, and design. He holds a bachelor's of science in communications from Ithaca College.