This subject introduces students to Islamic psychology, its context, definitions, framework and perspectives. Understandings of human nature will be explored from an Islamic perspective. The importance of the integration of psychological theories and interventions in the life of a Muslim will be discussed with a focus on the need to decolonise psychology and its content. This subject also provides a brief history of Islamic psychology and its origins, looking at early classical scholars, their worldviews and their heritage. Some of the classical scholars studied include al-Kindi, al-Farabi and Ibn Rushd (Averroes); physicians studied include al-Balkhi, al-Razi and Ibn Sina (Avicenna); and theologians studied include al-Ghazzali, Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Qayyim.

This subject provides an introduction to the fundamental sub-disciplines and theories in psychology and critically evaluates these theories from Islamic perspectives. The sub-disciplines of contemporary psychology including health, behavioural, developmental, personality, social and cognitive psychology are analysed using the latest research and evidence. The subject also includes Islamic perspectives in relations to human nature, experiences and behaviour. Parallels between contemporary psychological perspectives and Islamic psychology are explored.

This subject covers counselling interventions for various mental health conditions using principles of Islamic psychology. It utilises current theories, research and culturally-competent practices in the delivery of effective counselling interventions. The subject provides the essential Prophetic principles of giving counsel and its application. Islamic value systems in relation to mental health issues are explored, giving consideration to scriptural, spiritual, ethical, social and cultural contexts. The subject develops skills to enable counselling and therapeutic support for the well-being of the diverse Muslim community.

This subject addresses the importance of self development based on the teachings of the Qur’an and hadith (Prophetic narratives). Foundational Islamic spirituality concepts will be covered, such as ihsan (spiritual excellence), ikhlas (sincerity), istiqama (balance) and taqwa (righteousness). These concepts will be discussed alongside ibada (worship) to appreciate the relationship between all these concepts. The spiritual meaning of the five pillars of Islam will also be covered; what each practice signifies; their relationship with one another within the framework of purification of the nafs (ego); and how the five pillars assist in the spiritual development of the practitioner. The importance of the Sunnah (practical teachings of the Prophet Muhammad) in the everyday life of a Muslim will also be discussed, with a particular focus on their application in contemporary times.