Program Overview

Master of Commerce in Industrial and Organisational Psychology

The Master of Commerce in Industrial and Organisational Psychology is a full research master's degree that aims to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of new knowledge at an advanced level in the field and practice of industrial and organisational psychology. The qualification provides graduates with comprehensive and specialist knowledge of the principles, major theories and paradigms, methods and technology of the science and profession of industrial and organisational psychology.

Qualification Details

• Qualification code: 98580
• Qualification type: Full Research
• NQF level: 9
• Total credits: 180
• SAQA ID: 84867

Rules

The curriculum consists of a dissertation that incorporates a research proposal to be completed within the first year of study. Applicants should note that this is a full research master's and does not lead to professional registration as an industrial and organisational psychologist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

Purpose Statement

The primary purpose of the Master of Commerce in Industrial and Organisational Psychology is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of new knowledge at an advanced level in the field and practice of industrial and organisational psychology, and to enhance students' career prospects and the social value of their work.

Registration

• Applicants may only register once they have received confirmation from Unisa that their application for admission has been accepted.
• Re-registering students (who made sufficient progress during the current academic year) and students who officially deferred their studies must register online during the approved registration period for 2026.

Registration Period

• Registration opens: 7 January 2026
• Registration closes: 31 March 2026
• Final date for payment: 31 March 2026

Time Limits for this Degree

• Coursework master's degree: A maximum of three years with an option to apply for one additional year.
• Research master's degree: A maximum of three years with an option to apply for one additional year.
• Doctoral degree: A maximum of six years with an option to apply for one additional year.

Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs)

Unisa has identified 10 Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs) to be operationalised within the colleges, including:

• Marine studies
• Aviation and aeronautical studies
• Automotive
• Energy
• Space study and square kilometre array
• Fourth IR and digitalisation
• Natural sciences (biotechnological studies)
• Health studies/medicine
• Feminist, womanist and Bosadi theorisations
• Student support and co-curricular activities

Curriculum

The curriculum includes:

• DFIOP91 - Dissertation: Industrial and Organisational Psychology