Organizational Behavior Management

Organizational behavior management (OBM) is applied like traditional industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology, but is behavioral rather than cognitive or eclectic. It is analytic in that it relies on the systematic manipulation of environmental events and on directly measuring and graphing behavior (rather than reliance on written tests and interviews for assessment and evaluation). It is technological in that it precisely describes procedures in such a way that others can replicate them. Graduates may apply and enroll in the Ph.D. program in I/O psychology, combining both degrees. Graduates also may choose to combine the OBM degree with an MBA, or seek a Ph.D. in behavior analysis. The degree program provides coursework and experience for those who plan to work as performance management or OBM consultants in business, industry, government and human service organizations. Graduates will be prepared to work in a variety of organizations helping management with training and staff development, improving staff performance, staff productivity and behavioral safety; reducing absenteeism and staff turnover; personnel selection and placement; and direct-line supervision of employees.