There is not yet a single, universally accepted certification or degree that would qualify one to be an OD consultant. In fact, skills and levels of experience differ greatly among OD practitioners, who may specialize in certain intervention types such as coaching, team building, strategic planning, or organization design. Most observers agree that a background in the social and behavioral sciences is a good starting point to expose beginners to introductory OD concepts.

Academic training in areas such as organizational psychology, group dynamics, research methods, adult learning, career development, counseling, OD, and organizational theory are encouraged. Participation in groups such as professional associations, conferences, and training courses offered by those associations can be good ways to increase one’s knowledge of OD concepts and to expand a professional network.

Practical experience, however, is a prerequisite to successful consulting, so those wanting to break into the field might volunteer to help an internal consultant with a project at work. Individual development and growth is a personal exercise. Reading journals, attending conferences, observing other consultants, and obtaining an advanced degree are all possible options depending on the practitioner. While there are multiple paths to a career in OD, there are also many opportunities to develop the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience.

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