Rationale for the Department (Dept of Psychology)

Needs Assessment / Market Survey / Situation Analysis
The need for skills, abilities and knowledge in the discipline of Psychology has steadily risen all over the world. This is because of the continued need to address challenges of mental health facing many people in the society. The changing socio-economic and political changes have largely impacted negatively on the society, creating the need for psychosocial support more than ever before. The course is therefore designed to help equip students enhance their abilities in addressing a wide range of issues currently affecting Kenyan,s as well as the global society. The prospects for those who successfully complete this course are enormous as they are not only prepared for the job market and self employment but more importantly inspired to be agents of change in whichever community they find themselves. Currently, skills, knowledge and abilities of psychology graduates are highly needed in the psychosocial work driven by Non-Governmental Organizations, International Organizations, Government Institutions, Bilateral Agencies, Multilateral Agencies, Community Based Organizations and Mental Health Institutions charged with wellness and other aspects of health. It is expected that our graduates will find opportunities within the country as well as both regionally and internationally. With the establishment of Kenya Counsellors and Psychologists (KCPA) Act (2014) which requires every organization to have counsellors and psychologists, the numbers of openings for mental health experts are vast and varied. Hence, the programmes in the department provide theoretical, methodological and practical knowledge about psychological issues giving our department an edge for individuals interested in providing psychosocial support. The department has the prospects of developing additional programs such as Health Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Organizational/Industrial Psychology and School Psychology to tackle these challenges.