Compare Master’s Programs

Learn more about the distinctions between APU’s Master of Science in Organizational Psychology and Master of Arts in Leadership programs to discover which degree is the best option for your interests and career goals.

Program Comparison

Program Focus

MS in Organizational Psychology	MA in Leadership
Training individuals to work as consultants to the leader, to the team, and to the organization.	Developing leaders in the context of the self, team, and enterprise.

Prepares Graduates to:

MS in Organizational Psychology	MA in Leadership
Work internally or externally as consultant helping organizations work through complex challenges.	Be more effective in their leadership roles within the organization.

Research Requirements

MS in Organizational Psychology	MA in Leadership
Students are trained to become a consumer of statistics and learn the value of using data to support organizational decisions. Original research is conducted in the form of a master’s thesis at the culmination of the program.	Students are given introduction to various research methods, however, the emphasis is on applied understanding of theories in leadership practice. This takes the form of demonstrated competencies articulated through a capstone presentation.

Admission

MS in Organizational Psychology	MA in Leadership
Three available entry points: Fall, Spring, and Summer.	Three available entry points: Fall, Spring, and Summer.

Potential Career Opportunities

MS in Organizational Psychology	MA in Leadership
Organizational Consultant Organization Development Specialist/Manager Organizational Effectiveness Specialist/Manager Workplace Learning Specialist/Manager Human Resources Analyst Director of People and Talent Organizational Researcher	Positional leadership in any field, positions in leadership development, change leadership, and team development.

Unique Learning Experiences

MS in Organizational Psychology	MA in Leadership
Utilize LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, Design Thinking, and Applied/Experiential Learning. Certifications offered in Strength Based Leadership, ICF coaching, and others.	Utilize LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, Design Thinking, and Applied/Experiential Learning. Certifications offered in Strength Based Leadership, ICF coaching, and others.

Total Units

MS in Organizational Psychology	MA in Leadership
39	30

Learn More About These Degrees

Interested in knowing more about the difference between these two programs? Discover how these graduate degrees boost leadership skills and help organizations thrive to find the right program for you.

Note: This information is current for the 2024-25 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.