Open University Courses List
in Sri Lanka
A complete guide to Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) courses, from certificates and diplomas to degrees, with faculties, fees in LKR, centres and how to apply.
Study Anywhere
Flexible distance learning nationwide
A Complete Guide to OUSL Courses
The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) is the country leading state university for distance and open learning. It lets students study while they work, from almost anywhere in Sri Lanka, through printed materials, online platforms and day schools at regional centres. Its programmes span certificate, diploma, bachelor degree and postgraduate levels across a broad set of faculties.
Because OUSL follows an open admission philosophy, many entry-level courses welcome students after O/L or A/L, while degrees usually require A/L passes or a relevant qualification. This makes it a popular route for school leavers, working adults and anyone who wants a recognised qualification without giving up their job.
Below you will find the main course levels, faculties, indicative fees in Sri Lankan Rupees, the regional centres and a clear step-by-step application process. If you want a flexible private alternative or a top-up degree pathway, Ceylon Open Campus can also help you compare your options.
- Recognised state university qualifications
- Study part-time while you work
- Certificate to postgraduate pathways
- Regional centres across the country
OUSL Course Levels & Fees
Indicative duration and fees in LKR by qualification level.
| Level | Duration | Indicative Fees (LKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate Courses | 6 months – 1 year | LKR 15,000 – 60,000 |
| Diploma Programmes | 1 – 2 years | LKR 30,000 – 120,000 per year |
| Bachelor Degrees | 3 – 4 years | LKR 40,000 – 180,000 per year |
| Postgraduate Programmes | 1 – 3 years | LKR 80,000 – 350,000+ |
Fees are approximate and for guidance only. Confirm current figures on the official OUSL prospectus.
OUSL Faculties & Course Areas
The main faculties under which Open University courses are offered.
Faculty of Engineering Technology
Bachelor of Technology and Bachelor of Engineering Technology streams in civil, electrical, electronic, mechanical, mechatronics and textile and apparel technology, plus supporting diplomas.
Faculty of Natural Sciences
BSc degrees in pure and applied sciences, mathematics, chemistry, physics, botany, zoology and computer-related subjects, along with foundation and diploma pathways.
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Bachelor of Arts degrees in languages, social studies, legal studies and the Bachelor of Laws (LLB), with diplomas in fields such as English and psychology.
Faculty of Education
Programmes for serving and intending teachers, including the Postgraduate Diploma in Education and Bachelor of Education degrees.
Faculty of Health Sciences
Programmes in nursing, pharmacy and related health fields aimed at building the country health workforce through flexible study.
College of Chemical Sciences and other units
Specialist and professional programmes, certificate courses and short courses offered through dedicated institutes and centres.
Course Types Explained
From short certificates to full degrees, choose the level that fits your goals.
Certificate Courses
Short entry-level programmes in subjects such as English, pre-school education, technology and computing, ideal after O/L or A/L.
Diploma Programmes
Higher diplomas and diplomas in technology, management, English, psychology and applied sciences that can lead on to degree study.
Bachelor Degrees
BA, BSc, BTech, B.Ed and LLB degrees studied part-time through distance learning while you work.
Postgraduate Programmes
Postgraduate diplomas, masters and research degrees for graduates who want to specialise further.
How to Apply to the Open University
- 1Watch for the OUSL admission notice, usually advertised in national newspapers and on the official website.
- 2Choose the programme and check the entry requirements, which vary from O/L for certificates to A/L or a prior qualification for degrees.
- 3Complete the online application during the open application period and pay the application fee.
- 4Sit any required selection test or interview where the programme calls for one.
- 5On selection, register at your chosen regional or study centre and pay the relevant semester fees.
OUSL Regional & Study Centres
Study close to home through centres across Sri Lanka.
Explore More Study Pathways
Looking for a faster or more flexible route to a degree? Compare a Top-Up Degree in Sri Lanka against open and distance options before you decide.
Related Study & Course Guides
Distance Learning in Sri Lanka
How flexible, study-from-home programmes work.
External Degree Programs in Sri Lanka
Recognised external degree options to compare.
Diploma Courses in Sri Lanka
A wide range of diplomas to launch your career.
Online Degree Programs in Sri Lanka
Study for a degree fully online and flexibly.
Affordable Degrees in Sri Lanka
Low-cost routes to a recognised degree.
University vs Open Campus
Compare traditional and open study models.
Open University Courses FAQ
What courses does the Open University of Sri Lanka offer?
The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) offers a wide range of certificate, diploma, bachelor degree and postgraduate programmes across faculties such as Engineering Technology, Natural Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, Education and Health Sciences, all studied through flexible distance learning.
How much do Open University courses cost in Sri Lanka?
Fees vary by level and programme. As a guide, certificate courses cost around LKR 15,000 to 60,000, diplomas around LKR 30,000 to 120,000 per year, bachelor degrees around LKR 40,000 to 180,000 per year, and postgraduate programmes from about LKR 80,000 upward. Always confirm current fees on the official OUSL prospectus.
What are the entry requirements for Open University Sri Lanka?
Requirements depend on the programme. Many certificate and foundation courses accept students after O/L, while diplomas and degrees usually require A/L passes or a relevant prior qualification. Some technology and professional programmes have specific subject requirements or selection tests.
How do I apply to the Open University of Sri Lanka?
Watch for the official admission notice, choose your programme, check the entry requirements, complete the online application during the open period and pay the application fee. After any selection test or interview, selected applicants register at a regional or study centre and pay the semester fees.
Where are the Open University study centres located?
OUSL is headquartered in Nawala, Colombo, and operates regional and study centres across the country, including Kandy, Jaffna, Matara, Batticaloa, Anuradhapura, Badulla and Kurunegala, so students can study close to home.
Is an Open University degree recognised in Sri Lanka?
Yes. The Open University of Sri Lanka is a state university and its degrees are recognised. If you want a flexible private alternative or a top-up pathway, Ceylon Open Campus can guide you toward recognised programmes that suit your goals.
Not Sure Which Course to Choose?
Ceylon Open Campus can help you compare open, distance and top-up study options and choose a recognised pathway that fits your goals and budget. Talk to us today.