Palo Alto University Admissions

The psychology degree is ideal for students with a passion for client advocacy and outreach. It focuses on developing the psychological knowledge and skills for entry-level work in the social services. The curriculum includes core classes in psychology and additional non-core electives. To put their knowledge into practice, students complete a six-month internship to gain real-world experience. Graduates can find roles at nonprofits and community agencies or prepare for graduate programs in psychology, counseling, and social work.

As an ideal program for transfer students, the Bachelor of Science in Business Psychology offers an interdisciplinary education, blending strategic business practices with the study of psychology and social sciences. Students develop a keen understanding of human behavior, motivation, and group processes and learn how to apply that knowledge in a professional setting, preparing them for careers in sales and marketing, human resources, and management.

PAU designed the Master of Science in Psychology to prepare students for careers in teaching, research, and related business and nonprofit fields. With a choice of four tracks, students select the coursework that best prepares them for their future goals. Since this degree is offered part time and delivered entirely online, program costs are kept low, and students have added flexibility and can complete the program without relocating.

Our Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students for the successful completion of professional counselor licensing exams and certification, equipping them to enter the workforce as highly skilled, culturally responsive practitioners. Students may attend online or through a hybrid format.

The Master of Social Work (MSW) program offers a specialization in Culturally Informed Behavioral Health Practice. The program prepares graduates for clinical practice and leadership roles in California’s public behavioral health system. The program has a full-time plan of study that is completed in two calendar years. Students attend synchronous online classes and several 3-day immersion residencies each year.

Our PhD in Clinical Psychology is a five-year, full-time doctoral program offered through a traditional on-campus learning experience. Accredited by the American Psychological Association, we use a practitioner-scientist training model to cover all aspects of psychological theory, research, and practice.

The Counselor Education and Supervision doctoral program forges a new generation of leaders. Our PhD students play an active role in advancing the counseling profession by training new counselors and supervisors, researching effective clinical interventions, and providing influential leadership in organizations.

In partnership with the Stanford University Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, the PGSP-Stanford PsyD Consortium is for students interested in building a career in direct clinical psychological services. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based clinical psychology and covers topics in research, ethical standards, intervention, and assessment.