Date of Award

9-1979

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Diana Richards

Second Advisor

Nick Fenger

Abstract

This study explores the design and justification of a graduate program in Management Psychology tailored to meet the evolving needs of industry. Donald J. Tabone investigates the limitations of traditional Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, noting their heavy emphasis on technical subjects such as accounting, finance, and marketing, with minimal focus on human resource development and psychological principles vital to effective management. The paper argues that as organizations become increasingly complex, there is a growing need for leaders skilled in interpersonal dynamics, motivation, behavior analysis, and humanistic management approaches.

The study begins with a comparative analysis of MBA curricula offered by several universities in the St. Louis metropolitan area. It reveals that less than 20% of course content typically addresses human resource or behavioral skills. To assess industry demand for a more psychologically oriented management program, the author developed and distributed a national questionnaire to 78 companies, focusing on their training programs, hiring practices, and perceived skill gaps in management.

Results indicate that larger companies and those with extensive management teams are more likely to support in-house training, assessment programs, and executive development. Firms also showed interest in future-oriented programs, including career counseling and leadership workshops, especially when their workforce included a high percentage of employees with graduate degrees.

The findings support the hypothesis that there is market potential for a Master’s program centered on Management Psychology. The proposed curriculum would integrate behavioral science with organizational leadership to develop well-rounded managers equipped to handle both technical and human challenges in modern business environments.

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