Bachelor degrees built for working adults, career changers, and transfer students
With flexible online courses offered full- or part-time, 1:1 advising, and a transfer-friendly structure that honors your prior credits, you can complete your bachelor's and seamlessly step into a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or social work.
"Now I get to do such awesome research and work with children. I feel gratified to be contributing to the field in even small ways."
- Shirin A., PhD Graduate. Read Shirin's story here.
Choose the major that fits your career goals
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Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Offered fully online and in-person internship, this program is ideal for students with a passion for community advocacy and outreach. Whether you need the flexibility of online learning or prefer an in-person experience, our supportive community ensures you can earn your degree while balancing your personal and professional commitments.
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Bachelor of Science in Business Psychology
Palo Alto University’s online business psychology degree is ideal for students who are transferring from a community college or another university. It’s also suitable for adult learners who want to complete their bachelor’s degree with previously earned college credits. Hands-on internships complement this curriculum and ensure you’ll gain real-world experience.
An undergraduate degree from PAU opens doors to diverse career paths, including:
- Human Resources & Organizational Development: Shape company culture and help employees thrive.
- Marketing & Business: Apply psychological principles to create better business strategies and customer experiences.
- Social Services & Community Support: Make a meaningful impact by helping individuals and communities improve their well-being.
Why Choose PAU to Finish Your Bachelor’s Degree
PAU’s Bachelor’s degrees combine mission-driven learning with academic flexibility. As a student, you’ll join a university with over 50 years of leadership in graduate education—guided by expert faculty in psychology, counseling, and social work, and committed to real-world clinical and community impact.
Your Degree, Your Timeline
➡️ Start Any Quarter (Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall)
➡️ Flexibility (Part-Time or Full-Time)
➡️ Evening Online (Zoom) Classes Built for Your Schedule
➡️ Dedicated Faculty Mentorship and Advising
➡️ Customized Plan Based on Your Transfer Credits
➡️ Transfer 84-135 Units (Based on Evaluation)
➡️ Finish in 12-24 Months
➡️ Get Credit for Behavioral Health or Nonprofit Work
➡️ Guaranteed Course Access
➡️ Personalized Academic Advising + Transfer Planning
➡️ Employment-Based Internship Options
Common Degree Timelines
Students with 135+ units to transfer often graduate in as little as 1 year.
Those with 84-134 units typically complete their degree in 6-8 quarters.
Want to know how your credits transfer?
Your Community Needs You
74,000+ Mental Health Job Openings Annually
The demand for counselors, social workers, and clinical psychologists continues to rise nationwide.
19%+ Growth in Counseling & Social Work Fields
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this far outpaces the national average.
Licensure = Career Mobility + Higher Earnings
PAU programs are built to prepare you for state licensure and long-term success.
Already Working
in the Field?
Many students at PAU get course credit from behavioral health roles toward fieldwork and internships.
Explore Your Path from Bachelor’s to Graduate Study
“I want to advocate for change, support kids and families, and strengthen underserved communities—especially through schools, public agencies, or nonprofits.”
“I want to become a counselor who provides one-on-one or group therapy in clinics, hospitals, or private practice—and help people navigate mental health challenges.”
“I’m curious about how the mind works, drawn to research and data, and considering a PhD or PsyD in Clinical Psychology to better understand human behavior.
Explore Where Your Graduate Degree Can Lead
➡️ Step 1: Submit your transcripts to receive a customized academic plan.
➡️ Step 2: Get enrolled: Transfer up to 135 units, start any quarter with online evening courses, and finish in 12–24 months—full or part-time schedules available.
➡️ Step 3: Before or after graduation, your admissions counselor will help you explore PAU’s master's programs and guide you through next steps.
Are You Ready to Accelerate Your Career and Make a Difference?
