HBKU's College of Islamic Studies launches Master's in Counselling Psychology programme

The College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has launched a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology Programme, within the aim of reinforcing its commitment to fusing solid academic Islamic grounding with contemporary social sciences.Commencing Fall 2023, the programme will provide students with a comprehensive overview of the concepts and organising principles that currently define the discipline.This will be supported with case studies demonstrating the practice of counseling psychology within Islamic settings.Students will be expected to apply the same levels of practical and theoretical knowledge to their coursework, dissertation field placements and clinical training.Speaking after the information session, dean of CIS at HBKU, Dr Recep Senturk, explained that the new master's degree will continue the college's tradition of blending academic programmes with immersive learning experiences."Dr Hooman Keshavarzi is a recognised expert in the field of clinical psychology with a focus on the applications of Islamic principles within mental health settings, and Dr Vahdet Gormez is an expert in cognitive methods of psychotherapy and developmental psychology," Dr Senturk pointed out, adding that the two experts will work alongside each other in leading the programme."We are adamant that our students will learn from two of the leading lights in this field, building Qatar's knowledge of this discipline in the process, he said, adding "we look forward to welcoming our first cohort to this programme this Fall."Applications for the programme are open to locals and residents of Qatar for this year.The college provides a unique platform that contributes to critical intellectual debates on Islam in a global context, through its blended academic programmes and an immersive learning experience, as well as its distinguished research division, which includes several research centres and clusters. (QNA)