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.