About the Department

Vision

The Ateneo de Manila Department of Psychology aims to be a leading institution of Psychology in Asia with strong and vibrant programs that develop exemplary psychologists, create cutting-edge relevant knowledge, and engage in responsive interventions that lead to personal and social transformation.

Mission

The Department is committed to the pursuit of scientific truth and excellence both in academic endeavors and professional practice. Combining solid foundations of psychological theories with active practice, the Department constantly aims to be an agent of change that brings about greater fullness of life among individuals, organizations, and communities in Philippine Society and the world.

The Psychology Department has been recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as a Center of Excellence (COE) since 1999; this was most recently renewed in 2016.

Our Founder,

Fr. Jaime “Father Bu” C Bulatao, SJ

Fr Jaime C Bulatao, SJ, is among the founding fathers of Psychology in the Philippines. He completed his doctorate in Clinical and Experimental Psychology at Fordham University, New York, then came home to the Philippines to head the Central Guidance Office of Ateneo de Manila University. In 1960, he established the Department of Psychology. Fr Bu has published numerous landmark articles and books, including Techniques of Group Discussion (1965); The Self and the Group (1967); Split Level Christianity (1966); Phenomena and their Interpretation: Landmark Essays 1957 - 1989 (1992) and Consciousness Mapping: Understanding your Relationships through the Star Matrix (2010) co-authored with Dr Gilda Lopez. He has received numerous awards and citations for his contributions to the field of Psychology in the Philippines.

Fr Bu was a beloved professor, researcher, mentor, and practicing clinical psychologist. He trained and inspired countless students, faculty, and practitioners with his curiosity and passion for knowledge, innovative and rigorous methods, and compassionate heart. The Department of Psychology aims to actualize Fr Bu's life and dream, that of developing exemplary Filipino psychologists who serve the nation.