Organizational Behavior

Organizational Behavior at Washington University in St. Louis is a comprehensive graduate program designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for leadership roles within a variety of organizational settings. This program emphasizes the understanding of individual, group, and organizational dynamics to foster effective management, enhance workplace performance, and promote positive change within organizations. Through a rigorous curriculum, students explore core topics such as leadership, decision-making, motivation, communication, team development, and organizational culture. The program also offers specialized courses in areas like conflict resolution, negotiation, and change management, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of complex organizational challenges.

At Washington University in St. Louis, the Organizational Behavior program integrates both academic research and real-world application, ensuring graduates are prepared to address contemporary issues faced by organizations today. Students benefit from engaging with distinguished faculty who are experts in the field, participating in case studies, projects, and interactive simulations that mirror real organizational environments. The program encourages collaborative learning and critical thinking, fostering a dynamic educational experience that prepares students for diverse careers in management, consulting, human resources, and leadership development.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, accommodating the needs of working professionals through evening classes, online modules, and modular learning options. Students have access to a wealth of resources, including research centers, professional networks, and internships, which facilitate practical experience and industry connections. Graduates of the Organizational Behavior program leave equipped with the analytical tools and ethical insight necessary to inspire teams, implement strategic initiatives, and drive organizational success. Whether pursuing careers in academia, corporate management, or entrepreneurship, students develop a deep understanding of how individual behaviors and organizational systems interact, positioning them as effective leaders in a competitive global landscape.

First Year

First Semester

• Tools Course: Quantitative Methods I (Psych 5066)
• Psychology Courses
• Olin PhD OB Courses

Second Semester

• Tools Course: Quantitative Methods II (Psych 5067)
• Cognitive Psychology Seminar (e.g., Advanced Cognitive Psychology)
• Olin PhD OB Courses 

* The order of classes may change due to availability, and classes may be substituted with approval. A communications course (that focuses on oral communication) is also recommended during the first two years. When the student takes the course is determined by the student and his/her advisor.

Research

• Attend Organizational Behavior Seminars
• Begin research collaborations

Milestones/Hurdles

• In the summer after the first year, students must meet with the faculty coordinator to discuss progress and complete a progress report to be submitted to the PhD Office by August 1st after the first year.
• First year summer papers are due at the end of the first summer prior to beginning second year course work.
• In August after the first year, students must attend an RA/TA orientation offered by The Teaching Center. This is required before submitting any RA/TA hours.

Second Year

Third Semester

• Olin PhD OB Courses
• Tools Course: Research Methods/Analysis (eg, Research Designs and Methods, Psych 5011)
• Psychology Elective Seminar

Fourth Semester

• Olin PhD OB Courses
• Psychology Elective Seminar

Research

• Attend Organizational Behavior Seminars
• Continue research collaborations

Milestones/Hurdles

• Field exam
• Second year summer papers are due at the end of the second summer prior to third year course work.
• In the summer, students must meet with the faculty coordinator to discuss progress and complete a progress report to be submitted to the PhD Office by August 1st.

Third Year

Courses

• Electives (directed readings, independent studies)
• B53 660 Seminar in Presentation Skills (fall semester, required)

Research

• Attend Organizational Behavior Seminars
• Paper Presentations (brown bag seminars and conferences)
• Dissertation Research

Milestones/Hurdles

• In the summer, students must meet with the faculty coordinator to discuss progress and complete a progress report to be submitted to the PhD Office by August 1st.

Fourth Year

Courses

• Electives (directed readings, independent studies)

Research

• Attend Organizational Behavior Seminars
• Paper Presentations (brown bag seminars and conferences)
• Dissertation Research

Milestones/Hurdles

• Dissertation Proposal – students must be able to assemble a Research Advisory Committee for the proposal of their dissertation and must submit a Title, Scope and Procedure Form as the committee’s approval of the proposed dissertation by September 30th after the fourth year
• In the summer, students must meet with the faculty coordinator to discuss progress and complete a progress report to be submitted to the PhD Office by August 1st.

Fifth Year

Courses

• Dissertation Course (12 credits – 6 each semester)

Research

• Attend Organizational Behavior Seminars
• Paper Presentations (job market paper presentations with faculty and at conferences)
• Dissertation Research

Milestones/Hurdles

• Intent to Graduate (complete form online)
• Job Market and Placement
• Oral Defense of Dissertation
• Submission of Examination Approval Form which signifies committee’s approval
• Upload of Final, Approved Dissertation to Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
• Submission of Documented Teaching Requirements to PhD Office

Requirements

• Scanned copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended (uploaded in the application)
• Olin requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college. A master's degree is not necessary. Upload unofficial transcripts - one from each college-level institution attended. Scanned copies of transcripts may be too dark and difficult to read so please adjust scanner settings accordingly. Photographs of transcripts are not acceptable. If the transcript is in a language other than English, applicants must provide an official translation issued from the university or by certified members of the American Translators Association.
• Scanned copies of GMAT or GRE test scores (uploaded in application). The average GMAT score of recent admits has been approximately 720.
• Scanned copies of TOEFL score uploaded in application and official TOEFL scores sent to Washington University in St. Louis (for international students only). The average internet-based TOEFL score of admits is 105.
• THREE (3) letters of recommendation
• Applicants may include a research paper or abstract (30-page maximum) with their application. A paper is not required for admission to Olin’s PhD programs. 
• Statement of purpose
• Resume/CV
• Application fee paid online

**For application purposes, all transcripts, test scores, CV and essays should be uploaded during the application process. For admissions considerations Olin accepts the unofficial uploaded information to determine applicants' status. Official documents are required upon admission to the PhD Program.

Scholarships

• Chancellor's Graduate Fellowship Program
• Need-based financial aid assistance
• Merit-based scholarships
• Olin Business School Stipend/Fellowships
• Mr. and Mrs. Spencer T. Olin Fellowships
• McDonnell International Scholars Academy

Organizational Behavior at Washington University in St. Louis offers students a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics that influence individual and group behavior within organizations. The program emphasizes the development of critical skills such as leadership, communication, decision-making, and strategic thinking, which are essential for effective management and organizational success. Students explore theories and empirical research related to motivation, team dynamics, organizational culture, change management, and business ethics. The curriculum is designed to blend theoretical foundations with practical applications, often including case studies, simulations, and experiential learning opportunities to prepare students for real-world challenges. The program aims to cultivate a nuanced understanding of the social and psychological factors that impact organizational effectiveness and employee well-being. Participants can expect to enhance their analytical abilities and learn how to foster positive organizational climates that promote innovation and productivity. Additionally, the program provides networking opportunities with industry leaders and faculty who are experts in the field, facilitating mentorship and collaborative projects. Graduates are equipped to pursue leadership roles across various sectors, including consulting, human resources, management, and organizational development. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and the importance of diversity and inclusion within organizational contexts. With a commitment to academic excellence and practical relevance, the Organizational Behavior program at Washington University in St. Louis prepares students to become thoughtful, strategic, and ethically grounded professionals capable of navigating complex organizational environments.