Industrial and Organizational Psychology (Research and Evaluation)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with a focus on Research and Evaluation at Walden University is designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in the scientific study of human behavior in organizational settings. This rigorous program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the foundational principles of industrial and organizational psychology, including evidence-based research methods, assessment strategies, and evaluation techniques critical to enhancing workplace productivity, employee well-being, and organizational effectiveness. The curriculum emphasizes the development of advanced research skills, enabling students to design, conduct, and analyze empirical studies that address real-world organizational challenges. Students will explore topics such as personnel selection, training and development, leadership assessment, work behavior measurement, and organizational development, all through a scientific lens. The program also focuses on ethical considerations and diversity issues in organizational research and practice, ensuring graduates are equipped to evaluate and implement interventions that are inclusive and socially responsible. Walden’s flexible online format allows working professionals to integrate their studies with their careers, offering a combination of asynchronous coursework and opportunities for interactive learning. By completing this doctoral program, graduates will be prepared to pursue careers as academic researchers, organizational consultants, or industry leaders who can critically evaluate organizational practices, contribute to scholarly research, and influence policy development. Walden University’s faculty comprises experienced scholars and practitioners dedicated to fostering innovative research and practical application. The program culminates in a doctoral dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field of Industrial and Organizational Psychology, positioning graduates to make meaningful impacts in academia, industry, and consulting sectors.

Program Overview: Industrial and Organizational Psychology (Research and Evaluation) at Walden University

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with a focus on Research and Evaluation at Walden University is designed to prepare students to become expert practitioners and scholars in the field of workplace psychology. This rigorous program emphasizes the development of advanced research skills, critical thinking, and practical applications that address real-world organizational challenges. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students gain a deep understanding of human behavior in organizations, employee motivation, leadership, personnel selection, training and development, and organizational development strategies.

The program combines theoretical foundations with practical research methods, including qualitative and quantitative analyses, statistical techniques, and assessment tools. Students are equipped to evaluate organizational practices, design evidence-based interventions, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge through scholarly research. The curriculum emphasizes ethical considerations, diversity, and cultural competence, ensuring graduates are prepared to work effectively in diverse organizational environments.

Throughout the program, students engage in mentored research projects that culminate in a dissertation. This original research enables students to explore specific issues within industrial and organizational psychology, such as employee engagement, stress management, team dynamics, or organizational change. The program also emphasizes the translation of research findings into actionable strategies that improve organizational effectiveness and employee well-being.

Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible online coursework that allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. Faculty with extensive experience in academia and industry provide mentorship and support throughout the program, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, consulting, HR leadership, organizational development, or as independent researchers and evaluators.

Ultimately, the PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (Research and Evaluation) aims to produce leaders who can make meaningful contributions to organizational science, inform policy decisions, and enhance workplace productivity and satisfaction. Walden University's commitment to social change and community impact is reflected in the program's focus on applying psychological principles to create healthier, more inclusive, and effective workplaces.

Program requirements for Walden University’s Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (Research and Evaluation) typically include a combination of coursework, comprehensive examinations, research milestones, and a doctoral dissertation. Students are expected to complete core coursework in research methods, statistics, organizational theory, human resource development, and assessment techniques, all designed to prepare them for rigorous research and practical application within organizational settings. A prerequisite for advancement is the successful passing of comprehensive exams that assess understanding across core areas of industrial and organizational psychology.

Throughout the program, students must develop and defend a research proposal as part of their dissertation process, culminating in the submission and oral defense of a doctoral research project that contributes original knowledge to the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning, requiring students to engage in practicum experiences or work-based projects that demonstrate practical application of theoretical concepts. In addition to coursework and research activities, students are often encouraged to participate in academic conferences, publish research findings, and collaborate with industry professionals to enhance their professional development.

In terms of time commitments, students typically complete the program over several years, with a structured progression from coursework to comprehensive exams, proposal development, research implementation, and dissertation defense. The program may also require participation in periodic seminars or workshops to foster community engagement and continued learning. Upon fulfilling all academic and research requirements, students are eligible to graduate with a doctoral degree, equipping them for careers in academia, consulting, organizational development, and research within various industries.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Industrial and Organizational Psychology (Research and Evaluation) program at Walden University primarily depends on the institutional funding structure, student financial aid options, and external scholarships available to students. As a nonprofit online university, Walden University offers a variety of financial aid opportunities designed to make graduate education accessible and affordable. Prospective students are encouraged to explore federal financial aid programs, including Stafford loans, PLUS loans, and federal grants, which can provide significant support for tuition costs. Additionally, Walden University participates in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), enabling eligible students to apply for loan and grant assistance based on financial need.

Beyond federal aid, students can access institutional scholarships specifically tailored for graduate students pursuing degrees in psychology and related fields. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based, and application procedures generally require submission of academic transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Walden University also offers payment plan options to help students manage their tuition payments over time, thereby reducing the financial burden and increasing accessibility to the program.

Moreover, many students finance their studies through employer tuition reimbursement programs, especially those working in organizational or consulting settings where skills acquired through the program can be directly applied. The university often collaborates with organizations to facilitate these arrangements. Students are advised to consult with Walden University's financial aid advisors to identify suitable financial resources and to ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

In addition to internal and external financial support, students may opt for private loans or professional organization scholarships, depending on their circumstances. The overall goal of Walden University’s financing options is to support students financially throughout their educational journey while minimizing debt and maximizing access to quality education in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (Research and Evaluation). The university continuously updates its financial aid offerings and provides comprehensive guidance to help students understand their options and plan effectively for their educational investment.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with a focus on Research and Evaluation at Walden University is designed to prepare students to become leading researchers and practitioners in the field of industrial-organizational psychology. The program emphasizes the development of advanced research skills, critical thinking, and practical application of psychological principles to improve workplace environments, enhance employee well-being, and increase organizational effectiveness. Throughout the program, students engage in rigorous coursework that covers topics such as organizational behavior, personnel selection, training and development, leadership, and performance management, all tailored to foster a comprehensive understanding of workplace dynamics.

The curriculum is structured to integrate theory and practice, with students conducting original research that addresses real-world issues faced by organizations. This research component ensures graduates are well-equipped to evaluate organizational programs, design effective strategies, and provide evidence-based recommendations. The program also encourages collaboration with industry partners, enabling students to gain practical experience and networks that facilitate career advancement in academia, consulting, human resources, and organizational development.

Students have access to a wide range of academic resources, including online libraries, research tools, and expert faculty guidance, ensuring a high-quality educational experience. The program emphasizes ethical considerations and culturally competent practices in research and evaluation, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse organizational settings. Additionally, students can tailor their studies to their interests and career goals through elective courses and research projects.

Walden University’s flexible online format allows working professionals to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. The program typically spans several years, with coursework, comprehensive exams, and dissertation research culminating in the conferment of the PhD degree. Graduates of the program are equipped to contribute to the academic body of knowledge, influence organizational policies, and implement innovative solutions to enhance workplace productivity and employee satisfaction. The program's focus on research and evaluation ensures that graduates are competent in applying scientific methods to assess interventions, interpret data critically, and communicate findings effectively. Overall, this doctoral program prepares students to become insightful leaders and scholarly contributors in the field of industrial and organizational psychology.