School of Psychology

Industrial and Organizational Psychology Program

Thesis Option

Practicum Option

Other Resources

Thesis Option

Getting Started

It is never to early to begin thinking about your thesis topic, however it may be prudent to remain somewhat flexible early on.  You will undoubtedly be exposed to a vast area of knowledge which may greatly influence your interests over time.  In the past, I/O Psychology students have found thesis topics in many ways, including:

  • Coursework and related assignments
  • Readings assigned for classes and independent reading in professional journals such as:
    • Journal of Applied Psychology
    • Leadership and Organization Development Journal
    • Personnel Psychology
    • Public Personnel Management
    • HR Magazine
    • Human Resource Development Quarterly
    • Human Resource Management
    • Personal experience and interest

Students should also consider the research interests of I/O faculty members.  It is advisable to develop research ideas that match the research interests of the faculty.  This provides improved feedback and guidance.