Most colleges have closed their doors to new students for the fall 2014 term. However, if a student is looking for a college to attend this fall, there is still an option. Palo Alto University (PAU), a not-for-profit institution in the Bay Area, has space in the fall for new undergraduate students. PAU was founded in 1975 and is a private institution with class locations in Palo Alto and Los Altos, as well as at Foothill College, College of San Mateo, and DeAnza College. Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), PAU offers bachelors, masters and doctoral programs in social psychology and mental health services. The institution was previously called Pacific Graduate School of Psychology before it became known as Palo Alto University in 2009. Graduates of PAU have gone on to have successful careers in a variety of industry sectors.

PAU is accepting applications until September 22 for its two-year bachelor degree completion programs in psychology and business. The two programs that are offered are Psychology and Social Action and Business Psychology. These programs were specifically designed for students who have completed two years of college or are transferring from a California community college. In celebration of PAU’s 40th anniversary, students who enroll and attend in the fall 2014 term will receive a $1,000 scholarship. There are also other financial aid and scholarship opportunities for students who qualify.

PAU offers an online application for interested applicants. In addition to the application, applicants must submit a personal statement and official college transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Unofficial transcripts can be submitted to initially process the application, but the official transcript must be submitted soon after submitting the application.

According to Paul J. Marcille, Ph.D., PAU’s director of undergraduate programs, PAU “programs meet the educational, professional, and lifestyle needs of students with classes offered during the day, evenings, and online. They are highly structured, allowing students to graduate in two years.” The degree programs at PAU could be a great option for students wanting to start working towards their bachelor degree this fall but were either turned away from other institutions or recently decided to continue their education. Interested applicants should apply soon as classes start September 22.