GCU has the unique distinction of starting MA classes in Psychology in 1926, making it the second institute after the University of Clacutta, to launch a Postgraduate Programme at that time. The MA Psychology Programme was launched jointly with the Department of Psychology of Forman Christian College (FCC) Lahore.

For a long period of time, the discipline of Psychology remained a part of Philosophy and classes were held jointly till 1961. In 1962, the Department of Psychology was established as an independent Department under the Chairmanship of Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ajmal, a renowned Psychologist, teacher, scholar and mentor.

The mission statement of the department is to produce knowledgeable, self aware, thoughtful, responsible and well adjusted individuals who are responsive to the needs of rapidly changing social world. To achieve these objectives, the Department of Psychology GCU endeavors to enhance the understanding of students about social, environmental and cultural factors relevant to mental health and also enable them apply this knowledge in their own lives for better adjustment and learning.

a. Research journal

The Department of Psychology is publishing an HEC recognized research journal namely “Pakistan Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology” (PJSCP) which provides a forum for dissemination of findings related to social and clinical areas of psychology. In addition to other fields, the journal aims to enhance the understanding of social, environmental and cultural factors in the etiology and outcomes of mental health problems as they affect individuals and society. This is biannual publication which is also indexed in the American Psychological Association’s database PsycINFO.

b. GCU PsycABSTRACT

GCU PsycABSTRACT is another publication of Department of Psychology. Its purpose is to provide abstracts of research theses undertaken and completed at the department, articles by faculty and students published in professional journals, articles presented in conferences/ seminars and brief reviews of books authored/ edited by faculty at the department.

c. Newsletter

The Department of Psychology is also publishing PsyNews on biannual basis.

Seminars/Workshops/Conferences

The department offers its students ample opportunities to interact with the international scientific community. The students and faculty members are encouraged to participate and attend the seminars/workshops and listen to the guest speakers (national and international) for meaningful exposure. The department organizes national and international conference every year.

Academic/ Professional Links

The PhD and MPhil faculty of the department has international exposures, diverse specializations and research interests. The department has links with numerous hospitals and organizations for academic and research purposes. Apart from that, two international links with University of Birmingham and University of Warwick had been established for capacity building and research development along with many research links with University of Vienna, University of Connecticut and University of ULM Germany.

Future Prospects

Students who graduate with BSc (Hons) in Psychology have a number of job options. Their consumption in different fields is very quick. They can work at hospital as clinical psychologists and educational institutes as teachers. They are also hired by the Armed Forces of Pakistan, the Federal and the Punjab Public Service Commissions. Psychologists are also in demand at human rights’ organizations and NGOs.

The Clinical Psychology Unit, GC University Lahore was set up in 2005 in order to develop a comprehensive training program for professional Clinical Psychologists in Pakistan and expand the role of Clinical Psychology to deal with a wide range of problems of the individual as well as the community at large. More information can be by

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