State Authorization & Licensure
The US Department of Education has made several important changes (effective July 1, 2020) to federal laws that govern how colleges and universities operate when offering distance (online or remote) education. Online-only programs at Palo Alto University (PAU) are:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology or Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Social Action*
- Master of Science in Psychology
- Master of Social Work
- Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling*
* This only pertains to the Online program
Colleges and universities offering entirely online programs must secure approval from each state where enrolled students are located to ensure compliance with state-specific regulations. This state authorization permits institutions like PAU to conduct educational activities beyond their home state borders. Meeting these regulatory obligations involves a thorough review of state laws and regulations to maintain authorization, ensuring that PAU adheres to each state's unique requirements.
Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Education mandates that institutions provide proof of authorization in states where it is required to participate in federal student financial aid programs. At PAU, the Office of the Provost ensures ongoing compliance, manages authorization statuses, and communicates any changes.
Unapproved States
We are currently unable to admit students into our online-only programs if they are located in the following states. Please check back regularly for updates
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Example: Gabrielle lives in Indiana, and wants to
enroll in our online MS program. Before she can enroll,
PAU must have explicit approval from the State of Indiana
to operate as an institution of higher education in their state.
Until this happens, PAU cannot recruit for the MS program in
Indiana, nor can PAU admit or enroll Gabrielle.
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Unapproved States
Alabama
Alaska
Arkansas
Delaware
District of Columbia
Georgia
Iowa
Indiana
Kansas
Maryland
Minnesota
Mississippi
Montana
New Mexico
New York
North Dakota
North Carolina - MA program only. MS and undergraduate students may enroll.
Oregon
Puerto Rico
Rhode Island
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Licensure
Students who plan to seek licensure in a state or territory outside of California are required to research their region's specific laws and regulations before enrolling in a program. PAU does not give any assurances that its programs meet the requirements of other states or territories.
PAU and its Faculty and Staff cannot offer reliable advice and PAU makes no determination whether the curricular part of the program meets licensing requirements of states and/or territories other than California.
Master's Level: Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (MFT)
Master's Level: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)
Master's Level: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
All Programs: Out-of-California Licensure
Important Information about Student Relocation
Prospective and current students should be aware that relocating to another state or country may affect their ability to apply for or continue in certain programs. Since Palo Alto University must secure authorization or approval to offer online programs in each state, relocating to a state or country where PAU does not meet the required state requirements or has not yet obtained approval may have implications for your academic progress. Prospective students should discuss potential relocation with their Admissions Advisor, while current students should consult with their Academic Advisor if considering relocation during their studies.
Prospective Students - Relocation
Prospective students should reach out to the PAU Admissions team at admissions@paloaltou.edu to discuss how relocation could impact their eligibility.
Current Students - Relocation
Students who relocate while enrolled at PAU should be aware that their ability to complete their studies may be impacted if they move to a country or state where the University is not currently authorized to offer their specific program.
Current students considering a move during their studies should contact their Academic Advisor for guidance.
Please review your address on file via MyPAU. If your address is correct, no action is required. If your address on file is incorrect, please submit a Change of Address form and inform your Academic Advisor.