Welcome to the Master’s Program in Organizational and Business Psychology at IBS!
Are you passionate about understanding the intricacies of human behaviour in the workplace and driving organisational success through psychological principles? Our Master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to excel in the dynamic field of business psychology.
Program Highlights and Goals:
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our program offers a robust curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application. Key courses include Mind, Brain and Behaviour, Organisational Interventions and Business Consulting, Leadership and Motivation in the Workplace, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and Judgment and Decision Making.
Interdisciplinary Approach: We integrate insights from psychology, neuroscience, and business to provide a holistic understanding of organisational dynamics. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that you are well-prepared to address complex workplace challenges.
Expert Potential: Learn from experienced academic staff members who are leaders in the fields of psychology and management. Their expertise and mentorship will guide you in your academic and professional journey.
Real-World Experience: Gain hands-on experience through internships, case studies, and collaborative projects with leading organisations. Our strong industry connections provide valuable opportunities for practical learning and networking.
Research Opportunities: Engage in cutting-edge research that explores the latest trends and innovations in organisational and business psychology. Our program encourages you to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this field.
Personalised Learning: Benefit from small class sizes and personalised attention from lecturers. Our supportive learning environment is designed to help you achieve your academic and career goals.
Apply Now & Join Us
Embark on a transformative journey that will elevate your career and make a lasting impact on organisations. Join the Master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology at IBS and become a leader in the field of business psychology.
Take the first step towards a rewarding career. Apply now and discover the difference you can make with a Master’s degree in Organizational and Business Psychology from IBS.
For more information, please visit our webpage https://ibsedu.dev.cloudservices.bg/en/education/applying-masters-programs/ or contact our admissions offices at Botevgrad, 14 Gurko Street, IBS building, information phone number: +359723 688 12 and Sofia, 7 Vincent van Gogh Street, IBS Distance Learning Center (opposite the Overgaz building, Vitosha metro station), information phone number: +359 2 400 16 30
Field of study: ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT
Study mode: FULL-TIME and PART-TIME
Programme duration: 18 months (3 semesters)
Language: The language of both instruction and communication is English.
Level of study as defined by the European Qualifications Framework (EQF): Second cycle (Master) EQF7
ECTS: 90
The programme consists of two semesters in the first year, covering the compulsory courses, and one semester in the second year, reserved for the student’s specialisation. The third semester is also devoted to the final thesis. You may choose the topic of the thesis freely, so you get a chance to concentrate on and specialise in a specific field of interest.
The first two semesters provide students with knowledge of the psychological and behavioural foundations of decision-making and moral judgement, as well as personality, individual differences and intelligence, behavioural design, and methods and tools relevant to data analysis for social and behavioural sciences. Each course in the programme is cross-disciplinary by design.
In the third semester, students can choose elective courses within their areas of interest. They are free to choose between 10 elective subjects in different areas, such as AI for Business Intelligence, Neuromarketing, Cross-Cultural Psychology, etc. Students choose 3 out of a total of 10 courses. A course is selected when at least 5 students have selected it. Students who have chosen courses in which not enough students have enrolled are redirected to other courses.
Courses & Curriculum
Our curriculum is designed with you in mind!
This master’s program includes 3 main curriculum components:
- Compulsory courses/ General education (60 credits)
- Elective courses, differentiated into 3 main areas (15 credits)
Elective courses in the field of Organizational performance and development
The intersection of Change Management, Wellbeing and Organizational Health, and AI for Business Intelligence reflects a modern, holistic approach to enhancing organisational performance. Fields like Organizational Development, HR Analytics, Corporate Wellness Programs, and Workplace AI Solutions exemplify this integration, leveraging data and AI to support strategic change and improve organisational and employee outcomes.
Elective courses in the field of Consumer Neuroscience & Behavioural Marketing
The intersection of Brand Management and Market Analysis, Applied Marketing Strategies, and Neuromarketing reflects a comprehensive approach to understanding and influencing consumer behaviour. Fields like Consumer Neuroscience, Behavioural Marketing, Integrated Marketing Communications, and Brand Strategy Consulting exemplify this integration, leveraging data and scientific insights to develop and implement effective marketing strategies.
Elective courses in the field of Cross-Cultural Psychology
The intersection of Organisational Culture and Conflict and Cross-Cultural Psychology highlights the importance of understanding cultural influences on behaviour and managing these differences within organisations. Fields like Cross-Cultural Management, Intercultural Relations, Organizational Psychology with a Cross-Cultural Focus, and Global Leadership and Management exemplify this integration, leveraging psychological insights to enhance organisational effectiveness and harmony in multicultural environments.
- Master’s Thesis (15 credits)
Year 1 / First Semester (winter semester) – 30 ECTS
Brain, Cognition and Behaviour – 8 ECTS
Social Psychology – 7 ECTS
Leadership and Motivation in the Workplace – 8 ECTS
Data Analysis for Social and Behavioural Sciences – 7 ECTS
Year 1 / Second Semester (summer semester) – 30 ECTS
Industrial/Organizational Psychology – 8 ECTS
Organisational Interventions and Business Consulting – 7 ECTS
Judgment and Decision Making – 8 ECTS
Personality, Individual Differences, and Intelligence – 7 ECTS
Year 2 / Third Semester (winter semester)
Students choose 3 of the 10 disciplines offered. For Erasmus Program students, it is possible to choose more than 3 disciplines, but after prior agreement with the Erasmus coordinator of IBS. A course is selected when at least 5 students have selected it. Students who have chosen courses in which not enough students have enrolled are redirected to other courses.
ELECTIVE COURSES
Change Management – 5 ECTS
Wellbeing and Organisational Health – 5 ECTS
AI for Business Intelligence – 5 ECTS
Brand Management and Market Analysis – 5 ECTS
Applied Marketing Strategies – 5 ECTS
Neuromarketing – 5 ECTS
Mentoring and Coaching for Organisational Effectiveness – 5 ECTS
Organisational Culture and Conflict – 5 ECTS
Cross-Cultural Psychology – 5 ECTS
Consumer Behaviour – 5 ECTS
Master’s Thesis – 15 ECTS
Together, the 90 credits that make up your master’s degree can prepare you for an excellent career in business. With 10 elective courses, the possibilities to customise your degree to your interests and career goals are numerous.
DESCRIPTION OF COURSES
The course “Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour” is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of how cognitive and neural processes influence behaviour. This knowledge is crucial for applying psychological principles to improve organisational practices, enhance employee well-being, and develop effective business strategies. Students will gain both theoretical insights and practical skills that are applicable to a wide range of professional contexts. Some of the key topics are:
- Structure and Function of the Brain – Understanding the basic anatomy of the brain and how different regions are responsible for various cognitive functions.
- Neurotransmitters and Neural Pathways – Learning about chemical messengers in the brain and how they influence behaviour, emotions, and cognition.
- Cognitive Processes – Exploring how memory works, different types of memory (e.g., short-term, long-term), and the processes involved in learning. Understanding how we focus on specific stimuli and how we interpret sensory information.
- Social Cognition and Behaviour – Exploring how the brain processes social information and how this affects social behaviour, empathy, and understanding of others. Understanding how cognitive and neural processes influence group behaviour and dynamics in organisational settings.
- Research Methods in Cognitive Neuroscience – Learning how to design experiments to study cognitive and neural processes. Developing skills in analysing and interpreting data from cognitive neuroscience research. Gaining familiarity with techniques like fMRI, EEG, and PET scans used to study brain activity.
- Case Studies and Practical Applications – Analysing case studies that demonstrate the application of cognitive and behavioural neuroscience principles in organisational settings.
The course “Social Psychology” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of how social interactions and processes influence individual and group behaviour. This knowledge is crucial for applying psychological principles to improve organisational practices, enhance employee well-being, and develop effective business strategies. Students will gain both theoretical insights and practical skills that are applicable to a wide range of professional contexts, such as human resources, marketing, organisational development, and leadership. Some of the key topics are:
- Social Cognition – Understanding how people perceive, think about, and interpret social information.
- Attitudes and Persuasion – Exploring how attitudes are formed, maintained, and changed, and the principles of persuasive communication.
- Social Influence – Examining how individuals are influenced by others through conformity, compliance, and obedience.
- Interpersonal and Group Dynamics – Understanding the psychological principles behind attraction, friendship, and love. Studying how people behave in groups, including topics like group decision-making, cohesion, and conflict.
- Social Identity and Roles—Learn how people’s identities are shaped by their group memberships and how this influences behaviour. Understand how social roles influence individual behaviour and organisational dynamics. Examine the formation and impact of stereotypes, as well as strategies to reduce prejudice and discrimination in the workplace.
- Communication and Interaction – Studying the role of body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal cues in social interactions. Learning strategies for resolving interpersonal and intergroup conflicts. Understanding the psychological principles behind effective negotiation and mediation.
The course “Leadership and Motivation in the Workplace” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how to lead and motivate individuals and teams effectively. By combining theoretical insights with practical skills, students will be equipped to apply psychological principles to enhance leadership practices, boost employee motivation, and improve organisational performance. These skills are applicable in a wide range of professional contexts, including human resources, organisational development, management consulting, and executive leadership. Some of the key topics are:
- Theories of Leadership – Understanding foundational theories such as Trait Theory, Behavioural Theories, Contingency Theories, Transformational and Transactional Leadership, and more recent perspectives like Servant Leadership and Authentic Leadership. Exploring different leadership styles (e.g., autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire) and their impact on organisational outcomes.
- Leadership Skills and Development – Developing effective communication strategies to lead teams and organisations. Understanding the role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership and learning how to enhance it. Learning various decision-making models and how leaders can make informed and effective decisions. Acquiring skills to manage and resolve conflicts within teams and organisations.
- Theories of Motivation – Understanding the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and how they influence employee behaviour. Studying key theories such as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, McClelland’s Theory of Needs, Self-Determination Theory, and Expectancy Theory. Learning about the principles of goal-setting theory and how to set effective goals to motivate employees.
- Leadership Assessment and Development – Familiarizing with tools and techniques to assess leadership potential and effectiveness. Designing and implementing programs to develop leadership skills within an organisation.
- Case Studies and Practical Applications – Learning how to conduct research on leadership and motivation using various methods. Analysing case studies that demonstrate successful leadership and motivation strategies in various organisational contexts.
The course “Data Analysis for Social and Behavioural Sciences” provides students with a comprehensive toolkit for analysing data relevant to social and behavioural research. By mastering both foundational and advanced statistical techniques, as well as gaining proficiency in statistical software, students will be equipped to conduct rigorous research and make data-driven decisions in various professional contexts, including organisational development, human resources, market research, and academic research. Some of the key topics are:
- Introduction to Data Analysis – Understanding the role and significance of data analysis in social and behavioural sciences. Differentiating between various types of data (e.g., nominal, ordinal, interval, ratio).
- Research Design and Methodology – Learning about different research designs (e.g., experimental, correlational, survey, longitudinal) and their applications. Understanding various sampling techniques (e.g., random, stratified, convenience sampling) and their implications for data analysis.
- Descriptive Statistics & Inferential Statistics – Understanding and calculating range, variance, and standard deviation. Creating and interpreting graphs and charts (e.g., histograms, bar charts, scatter plots). Learning the principles of hypothesis testing, including null and alternative hypotheses, Type I and Type II errors. Performing and interpreting independent samples t-tests, paired samples t-tests, and analysis of variance (ANOVA).
- Correlation and Regression – Understanding and calculating correlation coefficients to measure the strength and direction of relationships between variables. Conducting and interpreting regression analyses to understand the relationship between predictor and outcome variables.
- Interpreting and Reporting Results & Ethics in Data Analysis – Understanding how to read and interpret output from statistical software. Understanding the ethical issues related to data collection, analysis, and reporting. Ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of research participants’ data.
The “Industrial/Organizational Psychology” course in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how psychological principles can be applied to improve individual and organisational performance. By covering a wide range of topics, from personnel selection and training to leadership and workplace well-being, students will be equipped with the skills necessary to address various challenges in the workplace and enhance organisational effectiveness. Some of the key topics are:
- Introduction to Industrial/Organizational Psychology – Overview of the field, its history, and key theories. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of I/O psychologists in various organisational settings.
- Workplace and Attitudes – Understanding the factors that contribute to job satisfaction and employee engagement. Examining the components and outcomes of organisational commitment.
- Personnel Selection and Assessment & Training and Development – Identifying training needs within an organisation. Designing effective training programs based on learning theories. Designing and implementing effective performance appraisal systems. Techniques for providing constructive feedback and coaching employees. Strategies for dealing with underperforming employees.
- Organizational Development and Change – Understanding theories and models of organisational change. Examining the impact of organisational culture on behaviour and performance. Designing and implementing interventions to improve organisational effectiveness.
- Workplace Health and Well-being & Diversity and Inclusion – Understanding the psychological aspects of workplace health and safety. Techniques for managing stress and promoting well-being in the workplace. Strategies for promoting a healthy work-life balance. Understanding the benefits and challenges of a diverse workforce. Developing strategies to promote inclusion and equity in the workplace. Techniques for effectively managing a diverse workforce.
The course “Organizational Interventions and Business Consulting” equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to diagnose organisational problems, design and implement effective interventions, and provide professional consulting services. By combining theoretical insights with practical applications, students will be prepared to address a wide range of organisational challenges and drive positive change in various professional contexts, including internal organisational roles and external consulting positions. Some of the key topics are:
- Introduction to Organizational Interventions – Understanding what organisational interventions are and their importance in enhancing organisational effectiveness. Exploring different types of interventions, including structural, process, and human resource interventions.
- Diagnostic Techniques & Designing Interventions – Methods for assessing organisational health and identifying areas for improvement. Applying models like SWOT analysis, McKinsey 7S, and Burke-Litwin Model to diagnose organisational issues. Steps in planning effective interventions based on diagnostic findings. Setting clear, measurable goals for interventions. Strategies for managing change and ensuring successful implementation of interventions.
- Types of Organizational Interventions – Improving organisational processes through techniques like business process reengineering and Lean Six Sigma. Enhancing HR practices, such as talent management, training and development, and performance management. Modifying organisational structure to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
- Implementation of Interventions & Evaluation and Measurement – Developing detailed action plans for implementing interventions. Techniques for overcoming resistance to change and gaining buy-in from employees. Techniques for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, including pre-and post-intervention assessments. Identifying and using KPIs to measure the success of interventions.
- Business Consulting Skills: Understanding the consulting lifecycle from initial engagement to project completion, as well as the ethical issues and dilemmas in consulting. Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients. Applying problem-solving frameworks and techniques to address client issues. Adhering to professional standards and best practices in consulting.
The course “Judgment and Decision Making” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with essential knowledge and skills to understand, analyse, and improve decision-making processes in organisational settings. By studying cognitive processes, biases, group dynamics, and ethical considerations, students are equipped to contribute to enhancing decision-making effectiveness, thereby improving organisational performance and outcomes. This course prepares students for roles in strategic planning, management consulting, organisational development, and leadership positions where effective decision-making is critical. Some of the key topics are:
- Foundations of Judgment and Decision Making – Understanding the basic principles and concepts of decision theory, differentiating between programmed decisions (routine, repetitive) and non-programmed decisions (unique, complex) and exploring the normative models of decision-making and their assumptions.
- Cognitive Processes in Decision Making & Biases and Heuristics – How individuals gather, process, and interpret information when making decisions. Understanding how perception biases can influence decision outcomes. Studying common cognitive biases (e.g., confirmation bias, availability heuristic, anchoring effect) and their impact on decision-making. Understanding how overconfidence and risk perception affect decision outcomes. Exploring how different frames or perspectives can influence decision-making processes.
- Decision Making in Groups & Decision Making under Uncertainty and Risk – Understanding how group dynamics, leadership, and communication impact decision outcomes. Recognising the symptoms of groupthink and strategies to mitigate its effects. Strategies for making decisions when information is incomplete or ambiguous. Methods for assessing and managing risk in decision-making. Tools for structuring decisions and considering multiple scenarios.
- Applications to Organizational Contexts—Apply decision-making principles to strategic planning and organisational strategy. Use decision-making tools to optimise operational processes and resource allocation. Develop decision-making strategies for managing crises and emergencies.
- Decision Support Systems & Improving Decision Making – Utilizing decision support systems (DSS) and analytics tools to facilitate decision-making processes. Understanding how big data and predictive analytics can inform decision-making. Techniques for training individuals and teams to make better decisions. Using feedback loops to improve decision-making effectiveness over time. Strategies for fostering a culture of continuous improvement in decision-making processes.
The course “Personality, Individual Differences, and Intelligence” provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how individual differences shape behaviour and performance in organisational settings. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will be equipped to assess and leverage these differences to enhance organisational effectiveness, improve team dynamics, and support individual development. This course prepares students for roles in human resources, organisational development, management consulting, and leadership, where understanding and managing individual differences is crucial. Some of the key topics are:
- Introduction to Personality Psychology – Exploring major theories of personality, including trait theories, psychodynamic theories, humanistic theories, and social-cognitive theories. Understanding the Five Factor Model (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism) and its relevance to organisational behaviour. Learning about different methods for assessing personality, including self-report inventories and projective tests.
- Individual Differences – Understanding the nature and importance of individual differences in the workplace. Exploring the role of genetics and environment in shaping personality and other individual differences. Examining how culture influences personality and individual behaviour in organisational contexts.
- Intelligence and Cognitive Abilities – Reviewing major theories of intelligence, including Spearman’s g, Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences, and Sternberg’s Triarchic Theory. Understanding different types of intelligence tests and their applications. Exploring the concept of emotional intelligence (EQ) and its impact on work performance and leadership.
- Personality and Work Behaviour – Understanding how personality influences job choice, job satisfaction, and job performance. Examining how individual differences in personality affect workplace behaviours such as teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution. Exploring how personality influences career paths and professional growth.
- Intelligence and Job Performance – Analyzing the relationship between cognitive abilities and job performance. Understanding how intelligence influences learning, problem-solving, and professional development. Using cognitive assessments in the hiring and placement process.
The course “Change Management” typically covers a comprehensive set of topics aimed at equipping students with the knowledge and skills to manage and lead change effectively within organisations. It provides students with a deep understanding of the principles and practices of managing change in organisations. By integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications, students will be prepared to lead and manage change effectively, addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities that come with organisational change. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Theories and Models of Change
- Diagnosing the Need for Change
- Planning for Change
- Implementing Change & Overcoming Resistance to Change
- Sustaining Change
- Cultural Aspects of Change
- Case Studies and Practical Applications
The course titled “Wellbeing and Organizational Health” typically covers a range of topics focused on understanding and promoting the well-being of employees and the overall health of the organisation. It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how to promote and maintain the well-being of employees and the health of the organisation. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will be equipped to develop, implement, and evaluate interventions that enhance both individual and organisational well-being. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Theoretical Foundations – Exploring models of well-being, such as the PERMA model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Achievement) and the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model.
- Measuring Wellbeing and Organizational Health
- Physical Well-being & Psychological Well-being & Social Well-being
- Work-Life Balance
- Organizational Health
- Interventions and Programs & Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Current Trends and Research
- Case Studies and Practical Applications
The course “AI for Business Intelligence” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology equips students with a deep understanding of how AI can be harnessed to enhance business intelligence. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to use AI techniques to collect, analyse, and visualise data, thereby improving decision-making processes and driving business success. This course prepares students for roles in data analytics, business intelligence, strategic planning, and AI consultancy, where they can leverage AI to transform business operations and outcomes. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Introduction to AI and Business Intelligence – Understanding the basic concepts of AI and BI. Discussing the role and importance of AI in enhancing business intelligence and decision-making.
- Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence & Data Management and Pre-processing
- Machine Learning for Business Intelligence
- Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Business Intelligence Tools and Platforms
- AI-Driven Decision Making
- Case Studies and Industry Applications & Future Trends in AI and BI
- Hands-On Projects and Practical Applications – Engaging in hands-on projects that involve applying AI techniques to real-world business problems.
The course “Brand Management and Market Analysis” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a deep understanding of how to manage brands effectively and conduct comprehensive market analyses. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to develop strong brand strategies, analyse market conditions, and implement marketing initiatives that enhance brand equity and drive business success. This course prepares students for roles in brand management, marketing, market research, and strategic planning, where they can apply these skills to build and sustain strong brands in competitive markets. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Introduction to Brand Management
- Brand Strategy Development
- Consumer behaviour and Brand Perception
- Market Analysis Techniques
- Brand Communication and Promotion
- Global Brand Management
- Current Trends and Innovations in Brand Management
The course “Applied Marketing Strategies” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how to develop, implement, and evaluate marketing strategies. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to create effective marketing plans that drive business success. This course prepares students for roles in marketing management, brand management, market research, and strategic planning, where they can apply these skills to achieve organisational goals. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Introduction to Marketing Strategies
- Developing Marketing Strategies
- Digital Marketing Strategies
- Product and Service Strategies
- Pricing Strategies
- Distribution Strategies
- Promotional Strategies
- Case Studies and Practical Applications – Analysing case studies of successful and unsuccessful marketing strategies. Simulations and Role-Playing: Participating in simulations and role-playing exercises to practice applying marketing strategies.
The course “Neuromarketing” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a deep understanding of how neuroscience and psychology can be applied to marketing. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to use neuromarketing techniques to gain insights into consumer behaviour, enhance marketing strategies, and create more effective marketing campaigns. This course prepares students for roles in marketing research, brand management, advertising, and consumer insights, where they can leverage neuromarketing to drive business success. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Introduction to Neuromarketing & Basic Neuroscience for Marketers
- Psychological Theories and Consumer behaviour
- Neuromarketing Techniques and Tools
- Consumer Perception and Attention
- Emotional and Cognitive Engagement
- Advertising and Media Effectiveness
- Product Design and Innovation
- Pricing and Value Perception
- Case Studies and Practical Applications – Analysing case studies of companies that have successfully implemented neuromarketing strategies. Engaging in hands-on projects that involve applying neuromarketing methods to real or hypothetical marketing challenges.
The course “Mentoring and Coaching for Organisational Effectiveness” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively mentor and coach individuals to enhance organisational performance. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to develop, implement, and evaluate mentoring and coaching strategies that support personal and professional growth, promote a positive organisational culture, and align with business goals. This course prepares students for roles in human resources, organisational development, leadership, and consulting, where they can leverage mentoring and coaching to drive organisational success. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Introduction to Mentoring and Coaching – Understanding the differences between mentoring and coaching, and their respective roles in organisational development.
- Theories and Models of Mentoring and Coaching
- Skills and Competencies for Effective Mentoring and Coaching
- Mentoring and Coaching Processes
- Developmental Needs and Interventions
- Mentoring and Coaching for Diversity and Inclusion
- Technological Tools and Platforms
- Case Studies and Best Practices – Analysing case studies of successful mentoring and coaching programs. Identifying best practices and lessons learned from effective mentoring and coaching initiatives.
The course “Organizational Culture and Conflict” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a deep understanding of how organisational culture shapes behaviour and performance and how to effectively manage and resolve conflicts within organisations. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to assess and influence organisational culture, develop conflict resolution strategies, and promote a positive and collaborative work environment. This course prepares students for roles in human resources, organisational development, leadership, and consulting, where they can apply these skills to enhance organisational effectiveness and employee well-being. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Introduction to Organizational Culture & Formation and Evolution of Organizational Culture
- Assessing Organizational Culture
- Impact of Organizational Culture on Performance
- Introduction to Organizational Conflict & Theories and Models of Conflict
- Conflict Management Strategies
- Organizational Culture and Conflict
- Building a Positive Organizational Culture
- Diversity and Cross-Cultural Conflict
- Case Studies and Best Practices – Analysing case studies of organisational culture and conflict management. Identifying best practices and lessons learned from successful organisations.
The course “Cross-Cultural Psychology” in a master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how cultural differences impact human behaviour, communication, and organisational dynamics. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to navigate and manage cultural diversity, promote effective cross-cultural communication, and develop strategies for leading and working in multicultural environments. This course prepares students for roles in human resources, organisational development, global leadership, and consulting, where they can apply these skills to enhance organisational effectiveness and foster a culturally inclusive workplace. Here’s an outline of what students might learn:
- Introduction to Cross-Cultural Psychology & Theoretical Frameworks
- Research Methods in Cross-Cultural Psychology
- Cultural Influences on Perception and Cognition
- Cultural Influences on Emotions and Motivation
- Personality and Individual Differences
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Cultural Adaptation and Acculturation
- Cross-Cultural Leadership and Management
- Conflict and Negotiation in Cross-Cultural Contexts
- Case Studies and Practical Applications – Analysing case studies of cross-cultural interactions and their outcomes. Simulations and Role-Playing: Participating in simulations and role-playing exercises to apply cross-cultural psychology concepts.
The course on Consumer behaviour typically covers a range of topics aimed at understanding how individuals and groups make decisions about purchasing goods and services. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications, students will learn to analyse consumer behaviour, interpret market research data, and develop strategic marketing initiatives that effectively target and engage consumers. This course prepares students for roles in marketing research, consumer insights, brand management, and strategic planning, where they can apply their understanding of consumer behaviour to drive business success and innovation. Here’s an outline of what students might learn in a course on Consumer behaviour:
- Introduction to Consumer behaviour & Psychological Factors Influencing Consumer behaviour
- Social and Cultural Influences
- Consumer Personality and Lifestyle
- Consumer Decision-Making Models
- Consumer Segmentation and Targeting
- Brand and Product Perception
- Consumer behaviour in the Digital Age
- Consumer Research Methods
- Consumer behaviour Trends and Innovations
Key Learning Outcomes:
Behavioural Insights: Understand the cognitive and emotional factors that influence employee behaviour and organisational outcomes. Learn how to apply this knowledge to enhance productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.
Leadership Skills: Develop effective leadership and management strategies based on psychological principles. Learn how to motivate teams, manage conflict, and drive organisational change.
Human Resource Expertise: Acquire advanced skills in talent management, employee development, and organisational assessment. Learn how to create positive workplace cultures and implement effective HR practices.
Strategic Decision-Making: Master the art of strategic decision-making by understanding cognitive biases and decision-making processes. Learn to apply data-driven approaches to solve organisational problems.
Consulting Proficiency: Prepare for a career in business consulting by gaining expertise in diagnosing organisational issues and developing tailored interventions. Learn to provide evidence-based recommendations to improve organisational performance.
Alongside the subjects-specific knowledge you will gain during the programme, you will also develop professional skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking and research. These will enhance your CV, allowing you to improve your career prospects and access more senior roles.
Career Prospects:
Graduates of our master’s program in Organizational and Business Psychology are well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths in areas such as organisational development, human resource management, business consulting, leadership coaching, and talent management. Our alumni have successfully secured positions in top-tier organisations, contributing to their success through their expertise in business and psychology.
Understanding human behaviour and motivation, the ability to critically analyse a problem, formulate a considered response, create an argument, and generate new ideas all lend themselves well to careers in Human Resources Training and Development, with a specific focus on developing knowledge and skills for independent consulting in areas such as Leadership and Coaching.
With this master’s degree combined with a psychology concentration, you may work as a:
- Human Resources Manager
- Talent Acquisition Specialist
- Employee Engagement Coordinator
- Training and Development Manager
- Social and Community Service Manager
- Brand Manager/ Product Manager
- Organizational Development Consultant
- Business Analyst/ Strategy Consultant
- Healthcare Administrator/ Corporate Wellness Coordinator
- Corporate Trainer/ Educational Program Coordinator
- Start-up Founder
- Business Development Manager
- Communications Manager
Graduates acquire a Master’s degree in Administration and Management with the professional qualification of “Manager” and a Diploma Supplement that is valid and recognised worldwide.
The Diploma Supplement is designed to support the recognition of academic qualifications. It is an important tool of the European Higher Education Area for graduates to ensure that their degrees are recognised by higher education institutions, public authorities, and employers in their home countries and abroad. However, it does not represent a curriculum vitae or a substitute for the original qualification.
Business and psychology are two fields that work well together. When you combine them formally through an organisational and business psychology curriculum, you have an exciting and dynamic degree that focuses on how people behave in the workplace.
Although this master’s degree does not qualify you to work as a psychologist, it does help prepare you for graduate-level work needed to become an excellent manager with a specialisation in organisational and business psychology. It also prepares you to enjoy an exciting career helping others be their best in the workplace.
Students who have obtained a master’s degree can continue their professional and academic development in our doctoral programs.