Psychology Graduate

The first course in this three-course sequence is an advanced discussion of statistical and research-methodological topics including the scientific method, induction/deduction, and epistemology; reliability and validity; sampling procedures and theory; descriptive and inferential statistics; parametric and nonparametric statistical families; and the assumptions underlying and appropriate use of specific statistical tests. 

The second course in this three-course sequence is an advanced discussion of psychometric theory and practice, research-design techniques, criterion development, and individual differences. Using statistical capabilities from the previous course in the sequence, in this course students focus on particular types of study design, the benefits and drawbacks of those designs, and the inferential limits of specific study types. Additionally, the theoretical and practical basis for each of the notion of individual differences, criterion development and test deployment will be addressed. Course projects focus on the use of appropriate empirical methods to identify and address organizational needs.

The third course in this three-course sequence is a methodological capstone course emphasizing on the interface between psychological theory, applied psychology, and applied psychological research. Focus is on the utilization of statistical and research-methodological skills in response to industrial and organizational phenomena and needs. Culminating projects will demonstrate application of appropriate methodologic and analytic strategies to address identified organizational needs and the communication of results to varied audiences.

An overview of careers in the field of Industrial Organizational Psychology. A focus on cultivating broadly applicable careers skills, such as consulting skills.

One of two courses providing an advanced examination of the processes that underlie human experiences in organizational settings and the application of these psychological principles to practical problems. A focus on concepts unique to this domain, including: job attitudes, motivation, leadership, and organizational climate.

One of two courses providing an advanced examination of the processes that underlie human experiences in organizational settings and the application of these psychological principles to practical problems. A focus on concepts unique to this domain, including: occupational health psychology, program evaluation, groups/teams, organizational change & theory.

One of two courses providing an advanced examination of the application of psychological principles to organizational and work settings. A focus on concepts unique to this domain, including: job analysis, recruitment, selection, and compensation.

One of two courses providing an advanced examination of the application of psychological principles to organizational and work settings. A focus on concepts unique to this domain, including: personnel selection, diversity & inclusion, recruiting, utility theory, and training.

A course focused on a special topic in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Topics will be chosen in accordance with faculty and student interests. Topics may include current trends in research and practice. A description of the topic will be included in the registration schedule for the upcoming semester.

This course is meant to give students hands-on experience with assessing community and organizational needs and consulting with companies in another country. There will be a particular focus on gaining the intercultural and professional skills students will need when interacting with clients in diverse professional contexts. Students will gain an understanding of how national and cultural similarities and differences affect how one assesses and tackles organizational challenges.

An in-depth study of recruitment, selection, and retention of the human capital for an organization. Key topics include job analysis and design, testing, performance appraisals, training and development, succession planning, and employee exit programs. Special attention is also given to international operations, expat-repatriation and the effects of layoffs and downsizing on organization morale.

An examination of employee relations, employment law, and labor relations. Topics include equal employment opportunity, discrimination, affirmative action, workforce diversity, health and safety issues and employee communication. Ethical decision making will be highlighted throughout the course.

The study of attracting, motivating and retaining employees through the appropriate mix of compensation and benefits. Topics include group and individual incentive plans, determining wage levels and structure, developing pension plans and legal considerations in the administration of compensation and benefits on both the national and international levels.

An advanced study of psychological-testing theory and practice, focusing on the nature of psychological constructs, testing theory, individual differences, judgment and decision making in testing, and appropriate methods of test construction and deployment including statistical methods and psychometrics.

A field experience in applied Industrial-Organizational Psychology involving application of theoretical and practical knowledge and skills in an organization to provide students with exposure to and experience in the profession of Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Students will meet with their internship course instructor as requested and completion of several assignments are required as part of the course completion. Developmental supervision by point of contact in placement site is required and must be planned in advance. 

The development and completion of a thesis project including idea generation, literature review, methodology/survey development, data collection, and final write up. The study will be on a topic chosen by the student, but should be relevant to Industrial-Organizational Psychology. The research is student driven, and they will meet regularly with a thesis advisor. Both a research proposal and thesis defense meeting are required to complete the course.