Overview of the I/O Program

The primary objective of the doctoral degree program in industrial/organizational psychology at USF is the development of highly capable behavioral scientists who are able to apply their psychological skills and knowledge effectively to the solution of human problems in complex organizations. Our program is based on standards developed by the Society for Industrial Organizational Psychology to train scientist/practitioners. Through a combination of research, coursework, and internship experience, the program is designed to prepare students for careers in academic, research and applied settings. The Ph.D. is a research degree, thus research is an important and central focus of the program. All students are encouraged to develop an early and continuing commitment to research. The program emphasizes quantitative research methods as well as coursework in both industrial and organizational content areas.

The I/O program consists of 9 faculty and 40 doctoral students, and is housed in the department of psychology. Students take coursework throughout the department and are encouraged to take coursework in other departments in the university in order to fulfill a minor requirement. Internships are required, and are available both locally and nationally. Teaching experience is also available and is highly recommended. Most first year students are supported on a departmental graduate teaching/research assistantship. Advanced students are supported through a variety of on-campus and off-campus placements that are designed to best meet the student's career objectives. Ours is a full-time residential program; we do not accept part-time students.