Organizational Psychology: MA, San Francisco

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The Masters of Arts in Organizational Psychology (MAOP) degree provides in-depth education and training in the applied theory, research, and practice of organization psychology and the practice of organization development consulting. It is designed as a highly applied and professional practice oriented educational program for students who desire to work as internal or external organization effectiveness consultants, human resources business partners, project team leaders, or managers. It is also designed for students who are already working in human resources areas and who desire to deepen and strengthen their professional competencies. In addition, it is an excellent option for students who have earned other graduate degrees in business, social work, counseling psychology, management, or engineering and who are either considering a career change or simply want to supplement their current professional work with competencies related to facilitating organization change, team development, executive coaching, or other related professional practice areas. Graduates from this program have gone on to professional careers as internally-based organization development consultants, training and development consultants, human resources consultants in companies spanning a variety of industries, as well as securing positions with large, medium, and small organization management consulting firms.

This is a 46-unit program that can be completed in two years on a full-time basis, or three to four years on a part-time basis. Courses are offered in the late afternoons and evenings to accommodate working adults. In addition, some classes combine more intensive weekend sessions with weekly scheduled classes. The curriculum includes a full semester applied field work project under faculty supervision.

This program is also a good option for students who think they may want to continue on to the doctoral degree at Alliant International University in the future, but are not yet ready to commit to doctoral-length training.

Note: The curriculum below as outlined applies to full-time students. Part-time students may take courses in a somewhat different combination and sequence. Note that modifications can occur to the course schedule outlined.

Degree Requirements 46 units

First Year

Fall Semester

ORG 7350 - Organization Theory (3 units)
ORG 7607 - Foundations of Organization Consulting and Development (3 units)
PSY 6009 - PhD Psychometrics, Statistics, and Research Design (3 units) Prerequisite: undergraduate course in social science statistics.
PSY 8412 - Social Psychology of Organizations (3 units)

Spring Semester

ORG 6000 - Business Principles (3 units) Sometimes this course is offered during the summer session.
ORG 7330 - Cultural Diversity in Organizations (3 units)
ORG 7425 - Organizational Behavior: Fundamentals and International Perspectives (3 units)
PSY 6412 - Group Dynamics in Organizations (3 units)

Second Year

Fall Semester

ORG 6031 - Qualitative Research Methods (3 units)
ORG 7516 - Consulting Skills: Group/Team Interventions (3 units) Prerequisite: ORG 7607 & PSY 6412
ORG 7525 - Organizational Change and Development (3 units)
ORG 7710 - Organizational Ethics and Social Responsibility (3 units)

Spring Semester

ORG 7528 - Consulting Skills: Systemwide Interventions (3 units) Prerequisites: ORG 7607 & ORG 7516. ORG 7433 is recommended.
ORG 7670 - Coaching and Self-Development (3 units) Prerequisite: ORG 7607
ORG 7725 - Organizational Studies Applied Experience and Supervision (4 units)

Other Requirements

A description of each course is listed by course number in the Course Description section of the catalog. Curriculum requirements are subject to change.

Writing Evaluation: New students are given a diagnostic writing exam during the orientation week prior to the start of the first semester of classes. Students whose skills are evaluated as in need of improvement are encouraged to take a 2-unit seminar in academic and professional writing during their first semester in the program. Note: This two-unit seminar does not count toward the 46-units required for degree completion.

Statistics Evaluation: All entering MAOP students are required to take a statistics exam administered by the University prior to beginning classes, unless they have received transfer credit for a graduate level statistics course. This exam is also offered during the week of orientation prior to the start of classes. If exam results indicate a student’s skills need improvement in this area, he/she is required to take a brief remedial course during the first academic semester.

MGSM Program Learning Objectives - Master’s in Organizational Psychology

The Learning Objectives for this program are still being reviewed, but include:

All MGSM-OP Programs

Knowledge of research design, measurement, and statistical tools appropriate for basic research as well as for applied research in such areas as selection testing, surveys, and program evaluations

Ability to understand and critically evaluate the literature in a given area

Ability to integrate knowledge of ethical behavior in organizational studies

A positive, pro-active and non-judgmental attitude towards diverse cultural and international identities and in their interpersonal and professional interactions.

Demonstrate an ability to conceptualize and deliver culturally competent professional services in their respective areas to diverse populations.

Additional MAOP

Working knowledge of the theories and models that describe and explain organizational theories, theories of group functioning, and behavior in organizations.

General understanding of the applied research methods within the field of organizational studies.

Knowledge of the key issues and requirements for managing all phases of the consulting process, building effective client relationships, and ability to manage professional practice ethical issues effectively

Proficiency in the use of different assessment & intervention methods at the individual, group/team, and organization system-wide level and how to adapt such methods to diverse and multicultural needs of clients and organizational systems.

Self-understanding regarding personal values, biases, preferences, and style in working with others and organizational systems.