Palo Alto University

How this program compares

Benchmark this program against our national recognition pages and use the key guides below to evaluate ROI, admissions difficulty, and outcomes.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher) and relevant coursework in psychology or related fields.[1] Some psychology master's programs may require the GRE, though specific requirements vary by institution and concentration.

About This Program

Research-focused psychology master’s preparing students for careers in forensics, tech, healthcare, or doctoral study; strong employment outcomes post-graduation.

Career Outcomes

37.5-47 quarter units depending on concentration (6-7 consecutive quarters including summer). Most quarters include 2-3 courses. PhD Prep track requires one-week clinical interviewing intensive on-campus. No thesis requirement.

• 1. Clinical Psychologist or Mental Health Practitioner
• 2. Organizational Psychologist or Consultant
• 3. Industrial-Organizational Specialist
• 4. Research Psychologist or Academic Professional

What You'll Learn

• Analyze biological, psychological, and social perspectives on human behavior and mental health conditions
• Apply evidence-based psychological theories and research to real-world clinical and organizational settings
• Evaluate ethical, legal, and professional challenges in psychology practice
• Develop critical thinking and professional writing skills for advanced psychological work

Curriculum Highlights

Human development throughout lifespan, social and personality psychology, biological cognitive and affective bases of behavior, ethics in clinical work, psychopathology and psychodiagnosis, history of psychology, specialized training by concentration (forensic law/risk management; tech/digital mental health)

Top Employers

Common employers include hospitals and healthcare systems, educational institutions, private consulting firms, and government agencies focused on mental health and behavioral services.

Admissions

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher) and relevant coursework in psychology or related fields.[1] Some psychology master's programs may require the GRE, though specific requirements vary by institution and concentration.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Official Transcripts: Required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Bachelor's degree
• GRE/GMAT: Often required or recommended (verify with program)
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)