What Can You Do with a Business Psychology Degree: 2025 Costs & Job Opportunities

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from a business psychology degree?

1. A business psychology degree involves the study of the intersection of psychology and business.
2. Business psychology involves using psychological knowledge and research to help organizations improve their effectiveness and efficiency.
3. In this program, you may learn about topics such as employee motivation, leadership, group dynamics, and organizational development.
4. Completing this degree may take two to four years.
5. Depending on the institution, this degree may cost up to $40,000.

Where can I work with a business psychology degree?

Business psychologists are skilled in marketing, talent management, recruitment, organizational culture, and more. They are qualified for roles, such as management analysts, industrial-organizational psychologists, and business executives.

Graduates of business psychology may find employment in the following settings:

1. Consulting firms
2. Human resources departments
3. Research institutions.

Business psychology professionals may also be involved in talent management, assessment, training, and coaching tasks to help individuals and organizations achieve their goals.

How much can I make with a degree from a business psychology program?

According to the 2023 report of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual wage for industrial-organizational psychologists is $144,610, while managers and executives have a mean annual wage of $100,090.

Below are the average annual earnings of graduates with this degree:

1. Human resource specialists $64,240
2. Management consultants $95,290
3. Marketing specialists $68,230
4. Psychology $85,330
5. Career counselors $60,140

Best Business Psychology Programs for 2025

1. UMass Global, BA in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

UMass Global designed an online psychology degree for students interested in applying their learning in a business setting. It teaches methods for training, diversity issues, performance feedback, and other related personnel concerns.

1. Program Length: No information available
2. Tracks/concentrations: None
3. Cost Per Credit: $500
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

2. Southern New Hampshire University BS in Business Administration with a concentration in Industrial Organizational Psychology

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers a BS in Business Administration with a concentration in Industrial Organizational Psychology degree that combines business and psychology to prepare students for careers that require an understanding of both. The program covers a range of topics, including organizational behavior, leadership, human resources, and consumer behavior.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: None
3. Cost per Credit: $330
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

3. Franklin University BS in Psychology, Major in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Franklin University‘s psychology degree program is unique due to its blend of business and psychology, providing students with a solid foundation in both fields. The program is fully online, flexible for working professionals, and offers personalized learning with experienced faculty.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: None
3. Cost per Credit: $398
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

4. Palo Alto University BS in Business Psychology

Palo Alto University‘s Bachelor of Science in Business Psychology program is distinctive because it integrates psychology and business. The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological principles that apply to the business world.

1. Program Length: 2 to 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: No information available
3. Cost per Quarter: $5,934
4. Required Credits to Graduate: No information available
5. Accreditation: WSCUC

5. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology BS in Business Psychology

The Bachelor of Science in Business Psychology program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology combines psychology and business. Graduates gain a competitive edge in the job market with a unique set of skills and knowledge that can be applied to a variety of business settings.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations:Industrial/Organizational PsychologyOrganizational LeadershipBehavioral Economics
3. Industrial/Organizational Psychology
4. Organizational Leadership
5. Behavioral Economics
6. Cost per Credit: $1,622
7. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
8. Accreditation: WSCUC

6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign BS in Liberal Arts & Sciences, Organizational Psychology

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign‘s organizational psychology offering provides foundational courses, including Community Psych and Psychopathology, prior to specialization coursework. Students can pursue community internships, scholarships, and research opportunities here.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: N/A
3. Tuition: $15,829
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

7. San Diego State University BA in Psychology With I/O Psychology Emphasis

San Diego State University is one of the top universities in the US for its ethnic and racial diversity and one of the best universities in the world. Its Department of Psychology is a diverse community of instructors and students, enjoying access to many research centers and laboratories.

1. Program Length: No information available
2. Tracks/concentrations: N/A
3. Tuition: $14,568
4. Required Credits to Graduate: No information available
5. Accreditation: WASC

8. Colorado State University BS in Psychology, I/O Concentration

Colorado State University‘s alumni base includes Pulitzer Prize winners, astronauts, CEOs, and governors. In this psychology major, students will deeply understand subjects like motivation, leadership, and organizational training.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: None
3. Tuition: $17,914
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: HLC

9. Eastern Kentucky University BS in Psychology, Major in Workplace Psychology

Eastern Kentucky University provides foundational knowledge about theories and practices in the workplace. The university’s BS in Psychology, Major in Workplace Psychology program is an online course that follows accelerated sessions.

1. Program Length: 4 years (accelerated 8-week terms optional)
2. Tracks/concentrations: N/A
3. Cost per Credit: $434
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

10. Florida Institute of Technology, BA in Applied Organizational Psychology

Florida Tech offers a fully online psychology program focused on applying psychological principles and strategies to workplaces. It also digs into effective leadership competencies, such as communication facilitation, conflict management, and team leadership.

1. Program Length: N/A
2. Tracks/concentrations: No information available
3. Cost per Credit: $510
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 121
5. Accreditation: SACSCOC

How long does it take to complete a business psychology program?

1. Associate Degrees: 2 years. An associate degree in business psychology focuses on psychological data and analysis, economic theories, and cognitive development. Students will work toward completing courses such as abnormal psychology, economics, behavioral psychology, developmental psychology, and social psychology.
2. Bachelor’s Degrees: 2 to 4 years. How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree? A bachelor’s degree in business psychology teaches topics, such as introduction to psychology, social psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and cognitive psychology to create logical solutions for companies. They will also be adept in cross-cultural psychology as the workplace becomes more globalized.
3. Master’s Degrees: 2 years. There are many psychology graduate online programs. There are different types of masters in business as well, so students can study part-time or full-time and have greater flexibility when working toward their master’s degree. The focus of a master’s degree in business psychology is the application of organizational psychology principles.
4. Doctoral Degrees: 3 to 5 years. Business psychology degrees, such as a PsyD or PhD in Business Psychology, can be pursued by individuals interested in clinical psychology, statistics, and research methodology. Learn more about different types of doctoral programs in psychology.

How does an online business psychology compare to an on-campus program?

Both formats typically cover the same curriculum, but the mode of delivery and the style of learning may vary. The key to figuring out which format to take is to consider factors such as personal schedule, preferred learning environment, and the level of independence you desire.

Online business psychology programs offer the flexibility to study from anywhere, accommodating those with work or family commitments. They often provide a diverse virtual environment, enabling interactions with professionals worldwide and fostering a global perspective. On-campus programs, however, may offer in-person networking opportunities and immediate access to faculty.

What is the average cost of a business psychology program?

Similar to online forensic psychology degree costs, there is not a lot of tuition data on degree programs for this discipline. However, based on the average tuition for degree programs in industrial organizational psychology, a closely related field, students can expect to spend an average of $4,000 to $20,000 per year for a master’s degree.

Meanwhile, an associate business psychology degree typically costs over $18,000 for two years, while a bachelor’s degree in business psychology usually costs over $36,000 for a four-year program.

You can cut costs by studying for your degree online or choosing institutions within your area. Here are the estimated in-state, out-of-state, and private tuition for business psychology degrees.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in a business psychology program?

In general, there are many financial aid options available to psychology students:

1. Federal Financial Aid. Students in the US can apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This may include grants, subsidized and unsubsidized loans, and work-study opportunities.
2. Institutional Aid. Colleges and universities may offer institutional aid through scholarships, grants, or work-study programs. Contact the financial aid office of the specific institution to inquire about available options.
3. Assistantships and Fellowships. Some graduate programs offer teaching or research assistantships, which provide a stipend or tuition remission in exchange for work on campus. Fellowships are similar and often awarded based on academic merit.
4. Research and Teaching Opportunities. Some graduate students may be able to work as research or teaching assistants, which can come with financial benefits, including tuition waivers or stipends.

The American Psychological Association (APA) offers a comprehensive list of existing financial aid for aspiring and current psychology students, and has provided over 600 scholarships, awards, and grants to students. You can also ask the admissions office and check the website of your preferred university about existing financial aid options.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a business psychology program?

The best way to determine your degree’s requirements is to contact the university or college of your choice. Here are some general requirements for prospective business psychology students:

1. Proof of Graduation: Institutions offering a business psychology program usually require proof of completing relevant coursework before their application is approved. If a student is applying for a bachelor’s degree, one is asked to present a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a General Educational Development (GED) transcript.
2. Transcript: Contact your chosen university about their minimum grade point average (GPA) requirements to get an accurate score. However, the typical minimum GPA is 2.5.
3. Coursework: Institutions often request proof of 36 hours of completed coursework as part of their application process. Other colleges and universities also accept transfer credits as an equivalent credential. Applicants are expected to have prior knowledge of statistics as well.
4. SAT or ACT score: College admission tests, such as the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or American College Testing (ACT), are a standard part of any college application process. The minimum SAT score is typically 1200, while the minimum ACT score is usually between 25-35.

What courses are typically in a business psychology program?

Business psychology focuses on examining how psychological theories and principles can be applied to various business settings, as opposed to clinical psychology. Specific course offerings may vary between universities, but here are common courses you might find in this program:

1. Introduction to Business Psychology. This is an overview of the field, its history, and key theories. It introduces the application of psychology principles in business settings.
2. Organizational Behavior. This course is an examination of individual and group behavior within organizations. Its topics may include motivation, leadership, communication, and team dynamics.
3. Industrial and Organizational Psychology. This one explores psychological principles applied to workplace settings. It focuses on personnel selection, performance appraisal, and organizational development.
4. Consumer Behavior. It is the study of psychological factors influencing consumer decision-making. It analyzes marketing strategies and their psychological impact.

You may also encounter these courses as you’re trying to decide between a BA Psychology vs BS Psychology.

What types of specializations are available in business psychology programs?

With a business psychology degree, graduates can pursue various specializations. One option is human resources, where they can apply their knowledge of psychology to attract and retain top talent, improve employee satisfaction, and develop effective training programs. For a related reading, see our guide on behavioral psychology and why is behavioral psychology important.

Another potential concentration is management consulting, where they can help businesses develop strategies for improving performance, managing change, and increasing productivity. Graduates can also opt for organizational development, helping businesses create a positive work environment and improve employee communication and collaboration by taking up extra learning such as a construction management masters degree online. Other great options include market research, consumer behavior analysis, and career coaching.

How to choose the best business psychology program?

Aside from the general information about business psychology programs, learning about other aspects of the institution can help you decide if it is the right fit for you. Available specializations, accreditations, and the student-to-teacher ratio often contribute to the overall student experience.

1. Available Specializations. Business psychology is a broad field, allowing you to delve into more specialized courses depending on your preference. For instance, if you want to ally with your current and prospective co-workers, electives such as work psychology and organizational psychology could be similar to your specialization.
2. Accreditation. The APA provides accreditation to degree programs that fit specific guidelines. There are also various psychology and counseling degree online accredited by national and international organizations.
3. Student: Teacher Ratio. The student-to-teacher ratio of your classes has an impact on your learning experience. Some students feel anxiety if the class is too big or too small, so remember to ask the admissions office or check the university website.
4. Other Requirements. Check whether a program has an internship or capstone course requirement. Each of these can provide you with practical experiences, but may also take some of your time.

Could an online DBA Enhance Business Psychology Leadership?

Pursuing an advanced doctoral degree can significantly complement a business psychology background by deepening research capabilities, strategic decision-making, and leadership acumen. An online DBA provides a rigorous framework for analyzing organizational challenges and spearheading change, thereby preparing professionals for executive roles that integrate psychological insights with business innovation. This advanced training cultivates an interdisciplinary skill set critical for addressing complex corporate dynamics and driving sustainable growth.

How does business psychology differ from clinical psychology in professional practice?

Business psychology and clinical psychology serve distinct purposes in the field of psychology. Business psychology concentrates on applying psychological principles to improve workplace performance, employee satisfaction, and organizational dynamics. In contrast, clinical psychology is dedicated to assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health conditions. Professionals in business psychology typically engage in consulting, leadership development, and strategic planning, whereas clinical practitioners focus on therapeutic interventions and patient care. This distinction influences career trajectories and skill requirements. For those interested in exploring complementary fields, a clinical psychology degree online can provide a robust understanding of mental health that may enhance workplace wellness initiatives.

How can organizations effectively implement business psychology strategies?

Organizations can begin by aligning psychological insights with targeted business objectives. Implement data-driven assessments to identify specific areas for improvement, and integrate tailored training initiatives that address employee engagement and productivity challenges. Establish robust feedback loops to continuously evaluate the impact of applied psychological strategies on organizational performance. Collaborate across departments to ensure cohesive integration of these methods into existing workflows, fostering an environment that supports sustainable change. For further academic insights and advanced educational options, explore master in psychology online programs.

How can advanced neuropsychology studies complement business psychology?

Integrating advanced neuropsychology principles with business psychology enables practitioners to gain a deeper understanding of the neural processes behind decision-making and behavioral responses in organizational settings. This interdisciplinary approach refines strategies in leadership development, talent management, and innovative problem-solving through evidence‐based insights. Professionals who pursue further specialization—such as a neuropsychology online degree—can enhance their analytical competencies and research methodologies, thereby supporting more effective interventions and strategic organizational improvements.

Can business psychology support career transitions into therapeutic roles?

Business psychology equips professionals with expertise in organizational behavior and employee well-being, which can serve as a strong foundation for roles that emphasize mental health support within corporate settings. By integrating principles of behavior analysis and strategic communication, practitioners can extend their influence beyond conventional business functions. Some professionals choose to broaden their scope and pursue complementary qualifications, such as exploring degrees to become a therapist, thereby enabling them to address both organizational and individual needs through innovative, interdisciplinary approaches.

What career paths are available for graduates of business psychology programs?

A business psychologist can provide companies with a roadmap to navigate the nuances of the fourth industrial revolution and current and future training industry statistics. But before you decide, consider the paths that can lead you to become a business psychologist.

1. Industrial-organizational psychologist jobs. Business psychology and industrial-organizational psychology cover similar areas of psychology. Business psychology degree holders can work as psychology professors, project coordinators, and workplace experience specialists, among other roles.
2. Management consultant jobs. Professionals with a business psychology degree have extensive knowledge of process optimization and other aspects of efficiency. This allows them to provide companies with realistic expectations because their reports also consider the human behavior facet of production.
3. Marketing analyst jobs. Beyond management best practices, business psychologists can also develop marketing strategies. Their profound understanding of human behavior can be a valuable asset for any company that wants to realign its position in the market through diversification or other means.
4. Human resources jobs. Human resources positions require empathy and communication methods to maintain a company’s culture. They are also responsible for recruiting talent, fostering the development of employees, and other crucial administrative roles.

What is the job market for graduates of business psychology programs?

Curious aspirants now tend to ask me, “Is getting a degree in psychology worth it?" A degree in business psychology can be worth it for individuals interested in using psychological principles to improve organizational performance and employee well-being. In recent years, there has been an increased emphasis on the importance of employee satisfaction, mental health, and work-life balance. Business psychologists can play a crucial role in addressing these issues.

Hence, the overall demand for careers with psychology degree is expected to grow. The chart below indicates the number of new jobs psychology graduates can look forward to each year.

Forensic Psychology Applications in Business Psychology

Forensic psychology, often associated with the criminal justice system, is finding increasing relevance in business settings. By combining psychological expertise with an understanding of legal principles, business psychologists with forensic psychology training can address complex issues involving organizational ethics, employee behavior, and compliance.

Why Forensic Psychology Matters in Business

Incorporating forensic psychology principles into business psychology provides organizations with tools to:

• Conduct ethical assessments of workplace dynamics.
• Investigate cases of workplace misconduct, fraud, or discrimination.
• Develop policies to mitigate risks related to employee behavior and organizational practices.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws and ethical guidelines through psychological insights.

Career Opportunities in Forensic Business Psychology

Graduates with expertise in both business and forensic psychology can explore roles such as:

• Compliance Officers: Overseeing adherence to regulatory and ethical standards within organizations.
• Risk Management Specialists: Identifying psychological and behavioral risks that could impact business operations.
• Corporate Investigators: Assisting organizations in resolving internal disputes or uncovering unethical practices.

Pathways to Specialization

Professionals interested in this niche can benefit from pursuing advanced education in forensic psychology. Many online master's programs in forensic psychology offer flexible options to gain the necessary skills while continuing to work. These programs typically cover areas such as psychological assessment, ethical decision-making, and the legal system's impact on organizational behavior.

What are the skills I can gain in business psychology programs?

Business psychology programs provide students with a unique set of skills that blend psychological principles with business practices. Whether you’re completing an online or on-campus business psychology program, these skills prepare graduates for a range of roles in human resources, management, organizational development, and more. Here are some of the key skills gained through business psychology education:

• Psychological Assessment and Evaluation: Understanding human behavior is at the heart of business psychology. Students gain proficiency in assessing individual and group behavior within a corporate context, allowing them to make informed decisions related to employee performance, satisfaction, and organizational culture.
• Employee Motivation and Well-being: Students learn how to apply psychological theories to improve employee motivation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being in the workplace. These skills are crucial for those who wish to pursue careers in human resources or organizational development, ensuring employees remain productive and satisfied.
• Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: Business psychology programs teach effective conflict resolution strategies and negotiation techniques, enabling graduates to handle disputes between employees or management. These skills are invaluable for leadership roles that require diplomacy and strategic problem-solving.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in any business setting, and business psychology programs help students master both verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Whether interacting with colleagues, clients, or management, strong communication skills foster better relationships and problem-solving capabilities.

For those wondering "What can you do with a masters in psychology?", business psychology provides a versatile foundation for careers that involve understanding and improving the human element of business. Whether in consulting, leadership, human resources, or organizational behavior, the skills gained in these programs are highly valued in today's competitive job market.

What are the advantages of pursuing a master's in psychology online with a focus on business applications?

A master's in psychology online with a focus on business applications offers a unique opportunity to merge psychological principles with practical business strategies. This degree is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance organizational effectiveness, improve workplace dynamics, and influence consumer behavior.

The online format provides flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with professional or personal responsibilities. Courses often cover topics like leadership psychology, employee motivation, and consumer analytics, preparing graduates for roles in organizational development, human resources, and market research.

Additionally, pursuing an online program enables students to access a wide range of specializations and networking opportunities. To explore top programs tailored to your career goals, check out masters in psychology online programs for detailed information on curriculum options, accreditation, and career outcomes.

How Can Supplementary Certifications Enhance My Business Psychology Career?

Supplementary certifications provide a strategic edge by validating specialized expertise and reinforcing industry credibility. They are instrumental in bridging gaps between academic learning and practical application, ensuring professionals remain current with evolving best practices. For instance, pursuing a certification like a cheap online BCBA degree can offer distinct advantages by deepening understanding of behavior analysis and its impact on organizational effectiveness. Such credentials not only enhance your professional profile but also facilitate targeted skill development that aligns with market demands.

Can an accelerated online business psychology program fast-track my career?

Accelerated programs in business psychology can offer a streamlined curriculum designed to deliver essential skills rapidly while maintaining rigorous academic standards. These programs help professionals minimize downtime between study and application, enabling a faster transition into leadership roles. Moreover, flexible online formats allow for immediate integration of work experience with classroom insights. Leverage options such as the fastest online master’s in psychology from accredited schools to efficiently advance your career without compromising educational quality.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their business psychology degrees

Other Things You Should Know About Business Psychology Programs

Are there specific industries that highly value business psychology professionals?

Industries that prioritize employee engagement, talent management, and organizational development often seek the expertise of business psychologists.

Human resources and consulting firms are natural fits, where professionals can contribute to hiring practices, employee well-being programs, and leadership development. Industries, such as finance, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing also recognize the importance of optimizing workforce performance and organizational culture.

How do I become a business psychologist?

Begin by earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. Then, gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions. Pursuing a master’s degree also increases your chances of becoming a business psychologist. Consider obtaining relevant certifications from professional organizations, specializing in a specific area of business psychology, and building expertise through continuous learning and professional networking. Finally, actively apply for positions in industries that value the skills of business psychologists, such as human resources, consulting, and finance.

What is the difference between psychology and business psychology?

Psychology is a broad discipline that studies human behavior, cognition, and emotions across various contexts, including clinical, developmental, and experimental domains. Business psychology, on the other hand, is a specialized branch of psychology that specifically applies psychological principles to the workplace and organizational settings.

Yes. A psychology background provides valuable insights into human behavior, decision-making, and interpersonal dynamics—all essential aspects of entrepreneurship. In fact, many successful entrepreneurs have leveraged their understanding of psychology to create innovative products, design effective marketing strategies, and build strong teams.

A psychology degree can also equip you with a unique perspective that can lead to creative and people-centric solutions in the business world.

What are the emerging trends in business psychology that students should consider?

• Business psychology is evolving with trends like workplace diversity and inclusion, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding.
• Another trend is the growing focus on employee well-being and mental health, highlighting the need for professionals who can promote a positive work environment.
• Technology integration in business psychology is also gaining traction, with tools like data analytics and virtual collaboration becoming essential for organizational success.
• Sustainability and ethical practices are becoming integral parts of business operations, driving the demand for professionals who can navigate these complex ethical dilemmas.
• Understanding these trends can help potential students align their career goals with the evolving landscape of business psychology.

What insights does business psychology offer into organizational behavior and decision-making processes?

Business psychology provides deep insights into human behavior, motivation, and decision-making within organizations. This knowledge equips professionals to understand employee dynamics, improve team collaboration, enhance leadership effectiveness, and optimize organizational performance. By applying principles of psychology to business contexts, such as assessing employee satisfaction, designing effective training programs, and implementing change management strategies, business psychologists play a crucial role in shaping positive work environments and driving business success. This field merges psychological theories with practical business applications, making it an invaluable asset for individuals interested in understanding and improving the human side of organizations.

How does a business psychology degree integrate psychological principles with business practices to improve organizational performance?

A business psychology degree integrates psychological principles with business practices by teaching students how to apply concepts such as motivation, behavior analysis, and cognitive processes to organizational contexts. The curriculum covers areas like leadership development, employee motivation, organizational behavior, and human resources management. Through case studies, simulations, and practical projects, students learn to design interventions that improve employee well-being, enhance productivity, and foster a positive organizational culture. This multidisciplinary approach equips graduates with the skills to analyze and influence human behavior in the workplace, ultimately driving better organizational performance and effectiveness.