Graduate Programs — CSIOP-SCPIO

Graduate Programs in Canada

Organizational Psychology (I/O), Organizational Behaviour (OB), and Human Resource Management (HRM), and Industrial- are three fields that share many similarities. These fields bring together professionals who attend similar conferences, study similar constructs, and work closely together. Many academics in OB and HRM have received training in I/O, and vice versa. However, each program also presents some unique opportunities. Program structure and requirements vary across institutions; we mention a few key differences below.

OB and HRM programs are primarily housed in university business schools, whereas I/O programs are found in psychology departments. All programs typically require a master’s degree to enter doctoral programs. However, direct entry into the doctoral program from an undergraduate program can be granted in some cases. Training in I/O programs typically follows a scientist-practitioner model, and I/O graduates pursue industry careers as often as they pursue academic careers. In contrast, OB and HRM graduate programs focus primarily on training for academic positions, as most graduates pursue academic careers.