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Why study People Analytics over Organisational Psychology? 

This blog post compares the benefits of pursuing an MSc in People Analytics versus an MSc in Organisational Psychology for BSc Psychology graduates.

Introduction 

 

For BSc Psychology graduates looking to advance their career in the field of psychology, pursuing an MSc in People Analytics can provide an excellent opportunity.  

 

In this blog post, we will explore how studying an MSc in People Analytics can benefit BSc Psychology graduates over an MSc in Organisational Psychology. We will also highlight the key differences between the two programmes. 

What is People Analytics? 

 

People Analytics is a field that combines psychology, statistics, computer science, and business to solve people-related business problems. The focus is on gathering and analysing data to improve organisational performance and employee well-being. By leveraging data science techniques, such as machine learning, statistics, and data visualisation, businesses can make data-driven decisions. 

 

Interested in other job opportunities in People Analytics? Read our guide:

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What is Organisational Psychology? 

 

Organisational Psychology is a field that applies psychology principles and theories to understand human behaviour in the workplace. Organisational Psychologists are interested in topics such as motivation, job satisfaction, leadership, and team dynamics. 

Difference between MSc People Analytics and MSc Organisational Psychology 

 

There are significant differences between an MSc in People Analytics and an MSc in Organisational Psychology. 

Focus on Data Science

An MSc in People Analytics is more focused on data science than an MSc in Organisational Psychology. The programme emphasises the use of data science techniques such as statistics, programming, and data visualisation to analyse large and small data sets. The ability to apply data science techniques is essential in today's job market, where companies require employees with strong analytical skills. 

Coverage of advanced topics in psychology

Although data science is a primary focus, an MSc in People Analytics also covers advanced topics in psychology such as psychometrics, research methods, and machine learning. Psychometrics is the study of psychological measurement, and students learn how to develop and validate tests and questionnaires that are used to measure psychological constructs like personality, intelligence, and attitudes.

 

Furthermore, the programme covers advanced research methods, including experimental and non-experimental designs, survey research, and machine learning, which involves training algorithms to make predictions based on data. In contrast, MSc Organisational Psychology follows a more theory-driven approach, using both qualitative and quantitative research methods. 

Career paths

Graduates of an MSc in People Analytics can pursue a range of careers in data-driven organisations, such as HR analytics, business intelligence, and data science. In contrast, MSc Organisational Psychology graduates tend to focus on traditional psychology careers such as organisational development, training and development, and coaching. 

 

Find out why People Analytics Manager is one of the fastest growing job titles:

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Skill sets

MSc People Analytics graduates are proficient in statistical programming languages such as R and Python, data visualisation tools such as Tableau and Power BI, and machine learning algorithms. In contrast, MSc Organisational Psychology graduates are more likely to use SPSS, Stata and R software programmes to investigate human behaviours in the workplace. 

Conclusion 

 

In conclusion, pursuing an MSc in People Analytics can be a great option for BSc psychology graduates looking to expand their knowledge and skills in data science while still advancing their understanding of human behaviours in the workplace.

 

The MSc People Analytics is more focused on data science techniques like statistics, programming, and data visualisation. When choosing between these two programmes, students should consider their career goals and interests carefully. 

 

Learn how to analyse and visualise workplace data and connect it to your organisation’s strategic goals with the University of Hull’s online MSc in People Analytics. Start in January, May or September: 

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