FAQs – OUSL :: The Open University of Sri Lanka

Common FAQs

1. Will I be an external student?

All Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) students are internal students. We provide comprehensive learner support through study material, tutorial support and other academic assistance to all our students.

2. Can I study while being employed?

Yes, our university has been established primarily to cater to adults and the employed.
Flexible teaching-learning mode is particularly suited to those employed to achieve their higher educational aspirations.
Face-to-face teaching sessions are minimal. No regular lectures as in conventional universities.

3. When will applications be called for the Study Programmes?

Applications are called once every year through OUSL website and newspaper advertisements.

4. How can I apply for a study programme?

Applications must be submitted ONLINE before the deadline, using the link in the OUSL webpage.
International students should contact the International Relations Division.
Email : dirir@ou.ac.lk ; ird@ou.ac.lk

5. What are the entry requirements for admission to a Study Programme?

Please refer the Faculty webpages.

6. Is there any possibility to follow any degree programme without G.C.E. A/L qualification?

Yes. However, you need to follow relevant Advanced Certificate Programme (foundation programme) recommended by the faculty before applying for the programme.

7. How can I get more information about programmes?

You may download the Student Handbook from the Faculty website.

8. How am I informed about the registration?

Students will be informed individually to register for the Programme on a specified date by e-mail.

9. What are the documents that I should produce for the registration?

Educational qualifications, birth certificate, national Identity card (NIC)
Two colour passport size photographs

10. When will the registration take place?

Usually, one month after the closing date of the applications
Must register on the date specified.

11. Do I have to come in-person for the registration?

Yes, it is essential that you come yourself for registration as there may be clarifications to make.
In unavoidable circumstances you may send all relevant documents with copies through a nominated person with a letter of authorisation.

Faculty of Education

1. What are the Study Programmes offered by the Faculty of Education?
Study Programmes are made up of different course combinations for the award of a qualification through a programme such as, Advanced Certificate, Honours Degree, Postgraduate Diploma, and Masters’ Degree programmes. Also, many short courses are offered by the Faculty of Education.

Certificate Programmes

• Advanced Certificate in Pre School Education Programme (ACPE)

Bachelor’s Degree Programmes

• Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Natural Sciences [BEd Hons (Natural Sciences)] Degree Programme
• Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Drama and Theatre [BEd Hons (Drama and Theatre)] Degree Programme
• Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Special Needs Education [BEd Hons (Special Needs Education)] Degree Programme
• Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Primary Education [BEd Hons (Primary Education)] Degree Programme

Post Graduate Programmes

• Post Graduate Diploma in Education Programme (PGDE)
• Post Graduate Diploma in Special Needs Education Programme (PGDSNE)

Masters’ Programmes

• Degree of Master of Education Programme(MEd)
• Degree of Master of Teacher Education Programme (MTE)
• Degree of Master of Arts in Education Programme(MAE)
• Degree of Master of Special Needs Education Programme (MEdSNE)

2. Are these programmes full time or part time?

• All programmes are full time and will be taught using open and distance learning mode.

3. What are the short courses conducted by the Faculty of Education?

Short Courses
• Short Course on Research Methodology
• Short Course on Child Development
• Short Course on Teaching Children with Learning Disabilities
• Short Course on Inclusive Education

4. Will I be an external student?

• All Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) students are internal students. We provide comprehensive learner support through study material, tutorial support and other academic assistance to all our students.

5. Can I study while being employed?

• Yes, our university has been established primarily to cater to adults and the employed.
• Flexible teaching-learning mode is particularly suited to those employed to achieve their higher educational aspirations.
• Face-to-face teaching sessions are minimal. No regular lectures as in conventional universities.

6. When will applications be called for the Study Programmes?

• Applications are called once every year through newspaper advertisements and university website.

7. How can I apply for a study programme?

• Applications must be submitted ONLINE before the deadline, using the link in the OUSL webpage.
• International students should contact the International Relations Division.
Email : dirir@ou.ac.lk ; ird@ou.ac.lk

8. What are the entry requirements for admission to a Study Programme?

• Please refer the latest Student Handbook in the Faculty webpage.

9. Is there any possibility to follow any degree programme without G.C.E. A/L qualification?

• Yes. However, you need to follow relevant Advanced Certificate Programme (foundation programme) recommended by the faculty before applying for the programme.

10. How can I get more information about programmes?

• You may download the Student Handbook from the Faculty website.

11. Are there Selection Tests for study programmes?

There are selection tests for the following programmes.
• Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Primary Education Degree Programme
• Post Graduate Diploma in Education Programme
• Degree of Master of Education Programme

12. Are there interviews for study programmes?

There are interviews for the following programmes.
• Degree of Master of Teacher Education Programme
• Degree of Master of Arts in Education Programme
• Degree of Master of Special Needs Education Degree Programme

13. Is there any age limit to follow any programme?

• Should be over 18 years.

14. How am I informed about the registration?

• Students will be informed individually to register for the Programme on a specified date by e-mail.

15. What are the documents that I should produce for the registration?

• Educational qualifications, birth certificate, national Identity card (NIC)
• Two passport size colour photographs

16. When will the registration take place?

• Usually, one month after the closing date of the applications
• Must register on the date specified.

17. Do I have to come in-person for the registration?

• Yes, it is essential that you come yourself for registration as there may be clarifications to make.
• In unavoidable circumstances you may send all relevant documents with copies through a nominated person with a letter of authorisation.

18. How much will I have to pay?

Serial No.	Programme	Amount (Approximately)
1	Advanced Certificate in Pre-School Education Programme	Level 2 Rs. 20,000/-
2	Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Natural Sciences Degree Programme	Level 5 & 6 Rs.146,320/-
3	Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Drama and Theatre Degree Programme	Level 5 & 6 Rs.247,420/-
4	Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Special Needs Education Degree Programme	Level 5 & 6 Rs.150,200/-
5	Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Primary Education Degree Programme	Levels 3,4,5& 6 Rs. 206,000/-
6	Post Graduate Diploma in Education Programme	Rs.69,100/-
7	Post Graduate Diploma in Special Needs Education Programme	Rs.80,000/-
8	Degree of Master of Education Programme	Rs.90,000/-
9	Degree of Master of Teacher Education Programme	Rs.111,000/-
10	Degree of Master of Special Needs Education Programme	Rs.120,000/-
11	Degree of Master of Arts in Education Programme	Not yet offered

19. Should I pay full amount at once during the registration?

• Payment can be made in four installments per year.

20. Will I be able to obtain a Mahapola or other Bursary awarded by the Open University?

• You are entitled to Mahapola bursaries if you are unemployed.
• But you may be entitled to other bursaries awarded by the OUSL on merit/needs basis.
• Student Handbook and OUSL website provide information on bursaries.

21. Can I add/drop courses after registration?

• Yes, the OUSL permits to add or drop courses during the ‘add/drop’ period, and to drop courses on the ‘drop date’.
• Add/drop’ period and ‘drop date’ are informed through the Faculty webpage.
• If you fail to drop a course during the ‘add/drop’ period but drop it subsequently, the fees applicable to that course will be forfeited. However, this will not have any effects on the grades that you would get for this course after a subsequent registration.
• If you fail to drop a course even on the ‘drop date’, you are considered to have failed the course, and if you register again and follow the course the highest grade you are entitled to is C grade.

22. Can I withdraw from the programme after registration?

Yes, you can. If you withdraw from the programme before the ‘add/drop’ period, you are refunded 90% of the course fees paid. Otherwise, all the course fees paid will be forfeited.

23. Can I get exemptions for prior qualifications?

• Yes, you may apply for specific exemptions from courses based on relevant prior qualifications.
• Please refer Student Handbook for exemptions approved by the Faculty.
• Applications can also be submitted for evaluation of other qualifications for exemptions. Application form can be downloaded from Faculty webpage.

24. Can I follow the Study Programme from any centre?

• All study programmes are conducted at Colombo Regional Centre.
• Also, most of the study programs are conducted in Regional and study centres. For more information read the student handbook of the relevant study programme.

25. What is the medium of Instruction?

• In most of the programmes medium of instruction are Sinhala, Tamil, and English.

26. What is distance mode of teaching-learning?

• Can pursue learning in your own time and pace, irrespective of location, age, or other barriers.
• Learn via self-study course materials in the form of written texts and audio/visual aids.
• Minimum number of face-to-face interactive sessions are conducted called ‘dayschools’.
• Extensive support through online components.
• Day schools (discussions), tutorials, and assignments facilitate learning. Day schools can be face-to-face or via web conferencing (such as Zoom platform).
• Other teaching-learning activities include compulsory practical components, continuous assessments, and final examinations.

27. What is the duration of the Programme(s)?

Serial No.	Programme	Duration
1	Advanced Certificate in Pre School Education Programme	1 year
2	Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Natural Sciences Degree Programme	4 years
3	Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Drama and Theatre Degree Programme	4 years
4	Bachelor of Education (Honours) in Special Needs Education Degree Programme	4 years
5	Bachelor of Eduaction (Honours) in Primary Education	4 years
6	Post Graduate Diploma in Education Programme	15 months
7	Post Graduate Diploma in Special Needs Education Programme	15 months
8	Degree of Master of Education Programme	1 year
9	Degree of Master of Teacher Education Programme	1 year
10	Degree of Master of Arts in Education Programme	2 years
11	Degree of Master of Special Needs Education Programme	2 years

28. What is a credit?

• A “Credit” is the academic value of an OUSL course.
• Time you will have to allocate for studying a course depends on its credit rating.
• One Credit = 50 notional learning hours.

29. When will I be issued my course material?

• Course material will be issued during the registration in print/ soft copy format after the registration.

30. How can I get further information and help?

• Faculty Prospectus and Student Handbook: These publications provide important information in more detail for prospective and registered students.
• Orientation and counselling sessions: Provide advice on how to plan studies before registration to a Programme.
• Contact staff: After registering students can meet academic staff in relevant department and get advice/ clarify doubts on academic related queries.
• Contact Faculty Help Desk- Ms. Morin Perera on 071-6368235 /raper@ou.ac.lk
• Contact relevant Head of the Department.

Department	Telephone	Email
Head/Department of Secondary and Tertiary Education	112881425 112881231	hdste@ou.ac.lk
Head/Early Childhood and Primary Education	112881400	hdecpe@ou.ac.lk
Head/Special Needs Education	112881015	hdsne@ou.ac.lk
Head/Educational Leadership and Management	112881668	hdelm@ou.ac.lk

Faculty of Engineering Technology

1. What are the Study Programmes offered by the Faculty of Engineering Technology?

Study Programmes are made up of different course combinations for the award of a qualification through a programme such as Advanced Certificate, Diploma, Higher Diploma or Honours Degree;

Bachelors Degree Programmes

Bachelor of Technology Honours in Engineering [BTech Hons]
Bachelor of Industrial Studies Honours [BIS Hons]
Bachelor of Software Engineering Honours [BSE Hons]

Higher Diploma Programmes

Higher Diploma in Technology
Higher Diploma in Industrial Studies
Higher Diploma in Software Engineering

Diploma Programme

Diploma in Information Systems and Technology (Not Offered in 2021)

Advanced Certificate Programme

Advanced Certificate in Apparel Technology

2. What are the specialisations in each degree programme?

Bachelor of Technology Hounours in Engineering

Agricultural Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electronic and Communication Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering
Textile and Clothing Engineering

Bachelor of Industrial Studies Hounours

Agriculture
Apparel production and management
Fashion design and product development
Textile manufacture

3. Are these programmes full time or part time?

All programmes are full time and will be taught using open and distance learning mode.

4. Will I be an external student?

All Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) students are internal students. We provide comprehensive learner support through study material, tutorial support and other academic assistance to all our students.

5. Can I study while being employed?

Yes, our university has been established primarily to cater to adults and the employed.
Flexible teaching-learning mode is particularly suited to those employed to achieve their higher educational aspirations.
Face-to-face teaching sessions are minimal. No regular lectures as in conventional universities.

6. When will applications be called for the Study Programmes?

Applications are called once every year through newspaper advertisements and university website.
For Academic Year 2021/2022: Applications will be called soon.

7. How can I apply for a study programme?

Applications must be submitted ONLINE before the deadline, using the link in the OUSL webpage.
International students should contact the International Relations Division. Email dirir@ou.ac.lk; ird@ou.ac.lk.

8. What are the entry requirements for admission to a Study Programme?

Please refer the latest Student Guidebook in the OUSL webpage

9. Is there any possibility to follow any degree programme without G.C.E. A/L qualification?

Yes. However, You need to follow relevant Advanced Certificate Programme ( (foundation programme) recommended by the Faculty before registering for the programme.

10. How can I get more information about programmes?

You may download the Student Guidebook from the Faculty website

11. Are there Selection Tests for study programmes?

There is a selection test ONLY for the Bachelor of Software Engineering programme.

12. Is there any age limit to follow any prgramme?

Should be over 18 years

13. How am I informed about the registration?

Students will be informed individually to register for the Programme on a specified date by e-mail.

14. What are the documents that I should produce for the registration?

Educational qualifications, birth certificate, national Identity card (NIC)
Two colour passport size photographs

15. When will the registration take place?

Usually, one month after the closing date of the applications
Must register on the date specified.

16. Do I have to come in-person for the registration?

Yes, it is essential that you come yourself for registration as there may be clarifications to make.
In unavoidable circumstances you may send all relevant documents with copies through a nominated person with a letter of authorisation.

17. How much will I have to pay?

No	Programme	Amount (Rs.) Approximately
	Bachelor of Technology Hounours in Engineering	300,000
	Bachelor of Industrial Studies Hounours	275,000
	Bachelor of Software Engineering	475,000
	Advanced Certificate in Apparel Technology	45,000

18. Should I pay full amount at once during the registration?

Payment can be made in two or four installments per year.

19. Will I be able to obtain a Mahapola or other Bursary awarded by the Open University?

You are NOT entitled to Mahapola bursaries if employed.
But you may be entitled to other bursaries awarded by the OUSL on merit/need basis.
Student Guidebook and OUSL website provide information on bursaries.

20. Can I add/drop courses after registration?

Yes, the OUSL permits to add or drop courses during the ‘add/drop’ period, and to drop courses on the ‘drop date’.
Add/drop’ period and ‘drop date’ are informed through the Faculty webpage
If you fail to drop a course during the ‘add/drop’ period but drop it subsequently, the fees applicable to that course will be forfeited. However, this will not have any effects on the grades that you would get for this course after a subsequent registration.
If you fail to drop a course even on the ‘drop date’, you are considered to have failed the course, and if you register again and follow the course the highest grade you are entitled to is C grade.

21. Can I withdraw from the programme after registration?

Yes, you can. If you withdraw from the programme before the ‘add/drop’ period, you are refunded 90% of the course fees paid. Otherwise, all the course fees paid will be forfeited.

22. Can I get exemptions for prior qualifications?

Yes, You may apply for specific exemptions from courses based on relevant prior qualifications.
Please refer Student Guidebook for exemptions approved by the Faculty.
Applications can also be submitted for evaluation of other qualifications for exemptions. Application form can be downloaded from Faculty webpage.

23. Can I follow the Study Programme from any center?

Most academic activities are conducted at Colombo Regional Centre.
However, Continuous Assessment Tests and Final Examinations are conducted at Regional centres.

24. What is the medium of Instruction?

Medium of instruction is English.

25. What is distance mode of teaching-learning?

Can pursue learning in your own time and pace, irrespective of location, age or other barriers.
Face-to-face teaching sessions are minimal. Noregular lectures as in conventional universities.
Learn via self-study course material in the form of written texts& audio/visual aids.
Extensive support through online components.
Day schools (discussions), tutorials and assignments facilitate learning. Day schools can be face-to-face or via web conferencing (such as Zoom platform).
Other teaching-learning activities include compulsory practical components, continuous assessments, and final examinations.

26. What is the duration of the Programme(s)?

Programme	Minimum Years
Bachelor of Technology Honours in Engineering	5
Bachelor of Industrial Studies Honours	4
Bachelor of Software Engineering Honours	4
Higher Diploma in Technology	2
Higher Diploma in Industrial Studies	2
Higher Diploma in Software Engineering	2
Advanced Certificate in Apparel Technology	1

27. What is a credit?

A “Credit” is the academic value of an OUSL course.
Time you will have to allocate for studying a course depends on its credit rating.
One Credit = 50 notional learning hours.

28. When will I be issued my course material?

Course material will be issued during the registration in print/ soft copy format after the registration.

29. How can I obtain the activity diary?

Activity Diary for the whole year will be displayed in Faculty webpage and the MyOUSL (the online student portal) before starting academic activities.

30. How can I get further information and help?

Faculty Prospectus and Student Guidebook: These publications provide important information in more detail for prospective and registered students.
Orientation and counselling sessions: Provide advice on how to plan studies before registration to a Programme.
Contact staff: After registering students can meet academic staff in relevant department and get advice/ clarify doubts on academic related queries.
Contact relevant Head of Department:

Faculty of Health Sciences

1. What are the Study Programmes offered by the Faculty of Health Sciences?

Bachelor of Science Honours in Nursing [BSc Hons in Nursing]
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences Honours [BMLS Hons]
Bachelor of Pharmacy Honours [BPharm Hons]
Bachelor of Science Honours in Psychology [BSc Hons in Psychology]

Higher Diploma in Psychology is an interim qualification of BSc Hons in Psychology programme.

2. When will applications be called for the Study Programmes?

Applications are called once every year through newspaper advertisements.
For Academic Year 2020/2021: Applications are called between 11^th October to 11^th November 2020.
Applications must be submitted ONLINE before deadline, using the link in OUSL homepage.
International students should contact the International Relations Division. Email dirir@ou.ac.lk; ird@ou.ac.lk.

3. What are the qualifications required for admission to a Study Programme?

Check the Faculty Prospectus in the Faculty of Health Sciences webpage: https://ou.ac.lk/faculty-of-health-sciences/

Or use the following link: https://ou.ac.lk/programmes-health-sciences/

Please note:

BSc Hons in Nursing, BMLS Hons and BPharm Hons: Applicants must possess prior qualifications in respective field (those having only A/Levels are not qualified for admission).
BSc Hons in Psychology: May apply only with A/Level in any study stream or equivalent qualifications.
In addition, selection for admission to programmes is based on a Selection test.

4. Can I know more about the Selection Test?

All four Programmes conduct a written selection test. For BSc Hons Psychology degree only, applicants are also required to face an oral examination.
BSc Nursing & BSc Psychology Hons programmes: Written selection test will be computer based.
BMLS Hons & BPharm Hons Degree programmes: Selection test will be paper based.
Nature of the written selection test is informed in the Prospectus.
When youapply online, an admission card will be generated informing the date, time, centre, and other details. Must produce a printout of the admission card and NIC at the test.
Cut off mark for the selection of students is determined by each department.

5. How will I know if I am selected for admission to the Programme of Study?

List of provisionally selected students based on a merit list, will be published in the OUSL website.

6. If selected, how do I register for the Programme of Study?

Selected students will be informed individually to register for the Programme on a specified date.
Must submit originals and photocopies of your educational and other required documents to confirm the registration.
Must register on the date specified. Registration after the scheduled registration period will not be permitted.
Following initial registration as a new student, youmust re-register each academic year.

7. Do I have to come myself for registration?

Yes, it is essential that you come yourself for registration as there are decisions to make.
In unavoidable circumstances you may send all relevant documents with copies through another person with a letter of authorization.

8. Can I change courses after registration?

Yes,the OUSL permits to add or drop courses on the add/drop date and to drop courses on the drop date.
Add and drop datesare informed in the Prospectus.
You cannot drop or add courses for an academic year beyond these dates, without academic and/or financial penalties.

9. Can I withdraw from the whole programme after registration?

You can withdraw from the programme with a refund, provided a request is made before the add/drop date.

10. How much will I have to pay?

Fees payable for the Academic year 2020/2021 by local students are:

Fee (Rs)	Nursing	BMLS	BPharm	Psychology
Registration Fee	400.00	400.00	400.00	400.00
Facility Fee	1500.00	1500.00	1500.00	1500.00
Library Facility Fee	100.00	100.00	100.00	100.00
Laboratory Facility Fee	–	1500.00	1500.00	–
Refundable Lab Fee	–	2500.00	2500.00	–
Tuition fees per credit:
Levels 03 & 04	–	2870.00	2870.00	2720.00
Levels 05 & 06	3030.00	3100.00	3110.00	3030.00

Total amount payable will depends on number of courses a student offers for theacademic year. Also, fees can be paid in two installments for each academic year.
Fees stated in the above table are applicable only for academic year 2020/2021 and may change in subsequent years.

11. Can I get exemptions for prior qualifications?

Yes, you may request for specific exemptions from courses based on relevant prior qualifications.
Specific qualifications with respect to BSc Hons in Nursing, BMLS Hons and BPharm Hons programmes have been evaluated, and exemptions are granted as informed in the Prospectus.
Applications can also be submitted for evaluation of other qualifications for exemptions. Application form can be downloaded from Faculty of Health Sciences webpage (https://ou.ac.lk/downloads-health-sc/). Must apply with proof before 25.02.2021.
Total exemptions granted shall not exceed 60 credits. Exemptions granted should be claimed at Registration for them to be valid.

12. How are the Study Programmes conducted and when will they commence?

Academic activities of programmes will be conducted adopting the distance mode of teaching-learning.
Medium of instructions is English.
Most academic activities are conducted only at Colombo Regional Centre. Continuous Assessment Tests and Final examinations are conducted at Regional centres.
Activities of the Academic Year 2020/2021 are tentatively scheduled to commence in April 2021.

13. What is the distance mode of teaching-learning?

Can pursue learning in your own time and pace, irrespective of location, age or other barriers.
Face-to-face teaching sessions are minimal. Noregular lectures as in conventional universities.
Learn via self-study course material in the form of written texts& audio/visual aids.
Extensive support through online components.
Day schools (discussions), tutorials and assignments facilitate learning. Day schools can be face-to-face or via web conferencing (such as Zoom platform).
Other teaching-learning activities include compulsory practical components, continuous assessments, and final examinations.

14. Can I study while being employed?

Yes, our university has been established primarily to cater to adults and the employed.
Flexible teaching-learning mode is particularly suited for those employed to achieve their higher educational aspirations.

15. Will I be an external student?

All OUSL students are internal students. We provide comprehensive learner support through study material, tutorial support and other academic assistance to all our students.

16. What is the duration of the Honours Degree Programme and how many credits can I register for?

All Honours degree programmes can be completed in a minimum of 04 years. Those who obtain exemptions, may even complete in less than 4 years.
Can register for a minimum of 8 credits and a maximum of 30 credits for an academic year. You can decide the workload within this credit limit, depending on the time available for studies.
You decide how many years you will spend on completing the programme (whether to complete within minimum duration or take more time).
Should complete requirements for the award of the honoursdegree within 12 academic years from the initial registration to the programme.

17. What is a credit?

A “credit” is the academic value of an Open University course.
Time you will have to allocate for studying a course depends on its credit rating.
One credit = 50 notional learning hours.

18. When will I be issued my study material?

Course material will be given in electronic format after your registration to the programme is confirmed.
Timetables and other relevant course information will also be provided via departmental webpage and the MyOUSL (the online student portal).

19. Will I be able to obtain a Mahapola or other Bursary awarded by the Open University?

You are NOT entitled for Mahapola bursaries if employed.
But you may be entitled for other bursaries awarded by the OUSL on merit/need basis.
Student handbook and OUSL website provide information on bursaries& how to apply.

20. How can I get further information and help?

Faculty Prospectus and Undergraduate Guidebook: These handbooks provide important information in more detail for prospective and registered students.
Orientation and counselling sessions: Provide advice on how to plan studies before registration to a Programme. Each student will also be assigned a personal academic counsellor.
Contact staff: After registering, meet academic staff in relevant department and getadvice/clarify doubts on academic related queries.
Contact relevant Head of Department:

Department	Telephone	Email	Post
Head, Nursing	011-2881325	hdnurse@ou.ac.lk	P.O. Box 21, Nugegoda
Head, MLS	011-2881146	hdmedilab@ou.ac.lk
Head, Pharmacy	011-2881131	hdpharma@ou.ac.lk
Head, Basic Sc.	011-2881000 ext 663	hdbasicsc@ou.ac.lk
Head, Psychology and Counselling	011-2881000 ext 702	hdpcoun@ou.ac.lk

Contact Dean/Health Sciences on 011-2881075 or email: deanhealth@ou.ac.lk. Assistant Registrar on 011-2881355 or email: arhealth@ou.ac.lk
OUSL Counselling Unitat Health Centre, Central campus: Aprofessional counsellor is available during weekdaysto offer free and confidential psychological counselling services to promote mental health and wellbeing of registered students. Telephone: 0112881361(ext: 361); WhatsApp: 070 251 0820; Email: counsellor@ou.ac.lk

Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences

Under Constrictions

Faculty of Natural Sciences

1. What is natural science?

Natural science is a branch of science concerned with the description, prediction, and understanding of natural phenomena, based on empirical evidence from observation and experimentation. Natural science can be divided into two main branches: biological science/life science and physical science.

2. What are the Study Programmes offered by the Faculty of Natural Sciences?

Master of Science (M.Sc.) Degree Programmes (2 years)

Master of Science in Environmental Science (Offered by the Centre for Environmental Science and Sustainable Development through the Faculty of Natural Sciences)

Master of Science in Applied Entomology and Medical Parasitology

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Degree Programmes (3 years)

Bachelor of Science. General Degree Programme

This degree is made up of a combination of three disciplines selected from among:

Chemistry
Physics
Computer Science
Pure Mathematics
Applied Mathematics
Botany
Zoology

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Honours Degree (Special degree) Programmes (4 years)

Bachelor of Science Honours in Botany Degree Programme
Bachelor of Science Honours in Chemistry Degree Programme
Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematics Degree Programme
Bachelor of Science Honours in Applied Mathematics Degree Programme
Bachelor of Science Honours in Physics Degree Programme
Bachelor of Science Honours in Zoology Degree Programme

Higher Diploma Programmes (2 years)

Higher Diploma in Science (Awarded only to Bachelor of Science General degree students who request the diploma as an exit point after completion of the second year. Such students receiving this award will no longer be in the B.Sc. General degree programme).

Diploma Programmes (1 year)

Diploma in Laboratory Technology
Diploma in Ecotourism and Natural Resources Management

Advanced Certificate Programmes (1 year)

Advanced Certificate in Laboratory Technology
Advanced Certificate in Wildlife Conservation and Management

Advanced Certificate in Science (Foundation) Programme (jointly offered with Faculty of Engineering Technology – (1 or 2 years)

This is offered in lieu of GCE (A/L) to be admitted to the Degree programmes in Science and Engineering Technology

3. What are the entry requirements for admission to a Study Programme?

The following details are a simple guide on entry requirements. Please refer the relevant guidebooks for each programme to obtain specific details.

M.Sc. Programmes

Sc. in Environmental Science – A three-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or an equivalent higher qualification acceptable to OUSL Senate.
Sc. in Medical Entomology and Applied Parasitology – A bachelor’s degree in Science (Biological science), or A bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science, or MBBS, or an equivalent higher qualification acceptable to OUSL Senate.

Bachelor’s degree Programmes (3 years)

Bachelor of Science General Degree Programme – A minimum of three G.C.E. (A/L) passes among science subjects including Agricultural Science and Information and Communication Technology (in any number of sittings) OR minimum three passes from OUSL Advanced Certificate in Science (Foundation) OR in combination of both of the above OR an equivalent or higher qualification acceptable to the Senate.

Bachelor’s degree Honours (Special degree) Programmes (4 years)

Students will be selected for these honours’ programmes based on the performance at the end of the second year of the general degree programme.
A student must complete all the subjects of the major discipline of which the student wish to specialize before applying for this programme.

Higher Diploma Programmes

Higher diplomas are offered to students in 3 – year degree programmes at the end of their second year on supplication only.

Diploma Programmes

Diploma in Laboratory Technology – A minimum of three G.C.E. (A/L) passes in science and technology streams (in any number of sittings) OR minimum 3 passes in OUSL Advanced Certificate in Science (Foundation) OR Certificate/Advanced Certificate in Laboratory Technology OR Equivalent higher qualification Acceptable to OUSL Senate.
Diploma in Ecotourism and Natural Resources Management- A minimum of three G.C.E. (A/L) passes (in any number of sittings) OR OUSL minimum 3 passes in OUSL Advanced Certificate in Science/Social Science (Foundation) OR Advanced Certificate in Wildlife Conservation and Management OR any other qualification acceptable to OUSL Senate.
Diploma in Environmental Science – A minimum of three G.C.E. (A/L) passes (in any number of sittings) OR minimum three passes in OUSL Advanced Certificate in Science/Social Science (Foundation) OR Advanced Certificate in Wildlife Conservation and Management OR any other qualification acceptable to OUSL Senate.

Advanced Certificate Programmes

Advanced Certificate in Laboratory Technology – Minimum of six passes and credit passes for Mathematics and the first language at the GCE (O/L) OR any Certificate programme offered by OUSL (SLQF Level 1) OR NVQ Level 3 qualification OR any other equivalent qualification acceptable to the OUSL Senate.

Advanced Certificate in Wildlife Conservation and Management – Minimum of six passes and credit passes for Mathematics and the first language at the GCE (O/L) OR any Certificate programme offered by OUSL (SLQF Level 1) OR NVQ Level 3 qualification OR any other equivalent qualification acceptable to the OUSL Senate.

Advanced Certificate in Science (Foundation) Programme (jointly offered with Faculty of Engineering Technology)

Obtain at least six passes in GCE (O/L) including Mathematics and Science.

4. Are these programmes full-time or part-time?

All programmes are full-time and will be taught using open and distance learning mode.

5. Are these programmes complying with the Sri Lankan Qualification Framework (SLQF) of the UGC?

All programmes of the faculty were restructured in 2017 to be aligned with SLQF requirements.

6. What is the advantage of the programmes being conformed with the SLQF?

The SLQF is a nationally consistent framework, which currently applies to both public and private higher education institutions providing study programmes in Sri Lanka.
Being conformed with the SLQF, our study programmes are equal with all the similar study programmes offered by other higher educational institutions in the country.
This makes the qualifications of our students equal to that of the students of other higher educational institutes with respect to the levels of knowledge, skills and competencies, when they are seeking employment opportunities.

7. From where can I get more information about the SLQF?

You can visit the website: https://www.eugc.ac.lk/qac/slqf.faq.html

8. Will I be an external student, when I register with OUSL study programmes?

All students registered for a programme/course at the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) are internal students. We provide comprehensive learner support through study material, laboratory classes, tutorial support and other academic assistance to all our students.

9. Can I study while being employed?

Yes, our university has been established primarily to cater to adults and the employed.
A flexible teaching-learning mode, particularly suited to those employed is practised at the OUSL to enable you to achieve your higher educational aspirations.
Face-to-face teaching sessions are minimal with no regular lectures as in conventional universities. However, laboratory sessions are compulsory to attend and are held on weekdays.

10. When will applications be called for Study Programmes?

For most programmes, applications are called once every year through newspaper advertisements and the university website.
For Masters’ Degree programmes, applications are called once in two years.
Both Diploma in Laboratory Technology and Advanced Certificate in Laboratory Technology are offered every alternate year.
Diploma in Ecotourism and Natural Resources Management and Advanced Certificate in Wildlife Conservation and Management are offered every alternate year.

11. How can I apply for a study programme?

Applications should be submitted ONLINE before the deadline, using the link in the OUSL webpage.
International students should contact the International Relations Division. Email dirir@ou.ac.lk; ird@ou.ac.lk for further details.

12. Is there any possibility to follow any degree programme without G.C.E. A/L qualification?

Yes. However, you are required to follow the relevant Advanced Certificate Programme courses (Foundation) recommended by the Faculty before registering for the programme.

13. How can I get more information about programmes?

You may download the relevant Guidebook for each Programme from the Faculty
Searching under the ‘Courses and Programmes’ in the OUSL Home Page.

14. Are there Selection Tests for study programmes?

There may be selection tests for certain programmes for which you will be notified in the advertisement for the programme.

15. Is there any age limit to follow any programme?

Yes, you should be over 18 years of age.

16. How am I informed about the registration?

All applicants will be informed individually to register for the relevant programme on a specified date by e-mail.
You are required to follow instructions and register on the date specified.

17. What are the documents that I should produce for my registration?

Originals as well as photocopies of educational qualifications, birth certificate, national Identity card (NIC).

Two passport size, coloured photographs (size 5 cm x 5 cm).

18. When will my registration take place?

Usually, 1-2 months after the closing date of the applications

19. What are pre-registration orientation sessions?

These are specifically conducted on a separate day prior to registration for bachelor’s degree students. In other programmes, this is conducted on the same day before registration.
You can obtain more details about the OUSL and your bachelor’s degree programme by attending pre-registration orientation sessions conducted ahead of the dates for Registration.
It is compulsory to attend one of these sessions and bring the original G.C.E. (A.L) and G.C.E. (O.L) or equivalent certificates with photocopies. At orientation, you will be assigned an academic staff member who will be your personal counsellor. He/she will assist you to clarify your doubts related to the Programme, guide you in selecting courses and in filling the registration form correctly.

20. Do I have to come in-person for the registration?

Yes, it is essential that you come yourself for registration on the specified date as there are choices and clarifications to be made.
If you cannot come on the specified date under unavoidable circumstances, you may send all relevant documents with copies through a person nominated by you with a letter of authorisation. (A duly completed R3 form should be submitted.)
However, to collect the Student Record Book, you must come in person to the Student Affairs Division as your signature has to be placed on Student Record Book in front of an authorized person. The Student Record Book should be with you for all activities at the OUSL.

21. Is there any possibility of following single courses in bachelor’s degree programme without registering for the programme?

Some of the Bachelor of Science general degree courses are available as Stand-Alone courses to follow as single courses for which a certificate is awarded on successful completion.
For more details about such courses please refer Guide to B.Sc. Stand-Alone given in the Faculty of Natural Sciences webpage.

22. Am I permitted to register for a degree programme at the OUSL if I have already registered for a degree programme at another state university?

Yes, you can. Please refer the UGC Guidebook for the admissions to the conventional universities.

23. Am I permitted to register for more than one programme at the OUSL at the same time?

Yes, you can register up to two programmes, without exceeding a total of 30 credits for an academic year.

24. How long will I be given to complete the programme?

For a 3-year bachelor’s degree, the maximum time duration given is 9 years.

For the 4-year honour’s degree, the maximum duration is 6 years.

For 2-year master’s degree, the maximum duration is 6 years.

25. How many credits should I complete for a Bachelor of Science General degree?

For a general degree you need to complete 3 (academic) years and for each academic year you need to complete 30 credits making total 90 credits to complete the degree.
However, if you have other commitments and have financial or time restrictions for studies, you may take a lesser number of credits per year. Your tuition fee will then be calculated considering the number of credits you have registered for.

26. How can I register for an Honour’s (Special) degree?

Selections for honour’s degrees are carried out each year considering the results of first two years of the general degree of the applicants (please refer the Guidebook for the selection criteria).
In the B. Sc. Honour’s degree, you may specialize in one of the two Major disciplines you followed for the general degree.
If your results meet the requirement for the honour’s degree, you will be required to complete 120 credits, 30 credits on each of the four academic years.

27. What is a credit?

A “Credit” is the academic value of an OUSL course.
The time you are expected to allocate for studying a course depends on its credit rating.
Credit rating of a course is the second digit of the course code. A course code XYZ4301 denotes a 3-credit course.
One Credit = 50 notional learning hours.
If you register for 30 credits per a year, you need to spend 1500 hours on studies in a year, that is around 4.5 hours per a day.

28. How can I select the three disciplines (subjects) for my bachelor’s degree?

This mainly depend on the subjects you offered at your G.C.E. A/L Examination. Students who offered:
Biology or Botany can select Botany,
Biology or Zoology can select Zoology,
Combined Maths or Higher Mathematics can select Applied Mathematics and/or Pure Mathematics,
Chemistry can select Chemistry,
Physics can select Physics,
Any science subject including Agricultural Science and Information and Communication Technology can select Computer science.
Once you select these disciplines, you will not be allowed to change them. However, if your performance is very bad in one discipline, you are allowed to change that discipline once, with the permission of the Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences.

29. What does it mean by a major or a minor discipline in the bachelor’s degree programme?

Of the 3 disciplines selected for the degree, you register for more credits for 2 disciplines and a lesser number for the third at the 2^nd and 3^rd year of your degree. The former two are the major disciplines and the latter is the minor discipline.

30. Where can I find information about the courses offered under each discipline?

This information is provided in the Undergraduate Guidebook given under the Natural Science Faculty webpage.

31. How much will I have to pay for a year?

Fees per Academic Year – as at 2020/2021 Academic Year for bachelor’s degrees (3- or 4-year degrees)

Registration fee (Rs.)	400.00
Sports club fee (Rs.)	25.00
Facility fees (Rs.)	1500.00
Library Facilities fees (Rs.)	100.00
Refundable Lab deposit (Rs.)	.1100.00
Tuition fee (Rs.)	2310.00 per credit (maximum 30 credits/year)
StART@OUSL fee (charged only at the first year) (Rs.)	8500.00
Practical/Field visit fee (Rs.)	Amounts vary from 0.00 – 2000.00 per a 3/6 credit course

Standalone courses – Rs. 20,790 for a 3-credit course and Rs. 41,580.00 for a 6-credit course

For other programmes – Please check ‘Finance’ given under each programme of the ‘Courses and Programmes’ in the OUSL Home Page.

International students should contact the International Relations Division to find out further details. Email dirir@ou.ac.lk; ird@ou.ac.lk.

32. Should I pay the full amount at once during my registration?

Payment can be made in two instalments per year, 60% at registration and 40% before the commencement of the second semester (one academic year has two semesters for course delivery).

33. How do I make my payments for the programme registration?

You should pay the 1^st instalment before registration to the bank (refer Prospectus for details) and submit your payment receipt at registration.

34. Do I have to re-register each year after registration?

Yes, at the beginning of each academic year, you need to register for the courses you are following in the coming academic year.
Studentship should be obtained if you are unable to register for any courses in the coming academic year.

35. Will I be able to obtain a Mahapola Scholarship or other Bursaries awarded by the Open University (only for bachelor’s degree students)?

You are NOT entitled to Mahapola Scholarship in the first year of the study programme. Also, you will not be entitled if you are employed or 30 years of age or more.
Both the bursary and the scholarship are offered under the two schemes – merit and need. The main criterion for a merit scholarship is the overall student performance at final examinations. Further, University Enhancement Bursary is awarded to motivate the degree level students to complete the courses they have offered in a particular year and complete their degrees at a reasonably shorter period.
Guidelines for Mahapola Scholarship and Bursaries and further information are available with the assistant registrar of the faculty. Application forms will be available at the Re-registration counters or can also be downloaded from www.ou.ac.lk/science.

36. What is StART@OUSL [Students Academic Readiness Training at OUSL] in the bachelor’s degree programme?

StART@OUSL is a three-month training programme to facilitate students to develop their study skills to become independent learners in the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system of the Open University. It comprises three courses and three optional courses offered at Level 3, the first year of the degree programme.

Compulsory courses:

FDE3020 Empowering for Independent Learning (EfIL) – (Free)
LEE3410 English for General Academic Purposes (EGAP) – Rs. 5500/=
CSE3213 ICT Skills – Rs. 3000/=

A Student should offer all three compulsory courses to complete the StART@OUSL programme.

Please refer Prospectus or Student Guidebook to check for exemptions approved by the faculty for these three courses.

37. Can I add/drop courses after registration?

Yes, the OUSL permits to add or/and drop courses during the ‘add/drop’ date, and only to drop courses on the ‘drop date’.
‘Add/drop’ period and ‘drop date’ are informed through the Guidebook in the Faculty webpage.
If you are planning to drop a course, please make sure that you do not write or highlight anything on the printed material of this course as you need to return them during the add/drop period.
If you fail to drop a course during the ‘add/drop’ period but drop it on the drop dates, the fees applicable to that course will be forfeited. However, this will not have any effects on the grades that you would get for this course after a subsequent registration.
If you fail to drop a course even on the ‘drop date’, and you do not fulfil the requirements of the course properly you are considered to have failed the course. If you register again and follow the course, the highest grade you are entitled to is a C grade.

38. Can I withdraw from the programme after registration?

Yes, you can. If you withdraw from the programme before the ‘add/drop’ period, you are refunded 90% of the course fees paid. If not, all the course fees paid will be forfeited.

39. Can I get exemptions for prior qualifications?

Yes, you may apply for specific exemptions from courses based on relevant prior qualifications.

Please refer Student Guidebook for exemptions approved by the faculty.
Applications can also be submitted prior to registration for evaluation of other qualifications for exemptions by the faculty. Application form can be downloaded from Faculty webpage.

40. Can I follow the Study Programme from any centre?

Most academic activities are conducted at Colombo, Kandy and Matara regional Centres.
However, Continuous Assessment Tests and Final Examinations are conducted at other regional centres.
Activities for MSc, Diploma and Advanced Certificate programmes are conducted only at Colombo regional centre.

41. Will I have accommodation facilities if I have to come to a regional centre for activities?

Limited temporary residential facilities (TRF) are available at a restricted number of centres.

42. Will I be able to follow the programme if I have to be away from Sri Lanka for a short period?

You will have to be in the country for certain compulsory academic activities. You may be permitted to sit for your CATs and FEs on request, if the conditions required by the OUSL are available with prior permission from the relevant authorities.

43. What is the medium that is used to offer these programmes?

Courses are offered mainly in English.
However, first year of the B.Sc. degree programme is offered in all three languages – English, Sinhala and Tamil.
Some Advanced Certificate and Diploma programmes may be offered bilingually (Sinhala and English).

44. What is distance mode of teaching-learning?

With this mode you can pursue learning in your own time and pace, irrespective of location, age or other barriers.
Face-to-face teaching sessions are minimal. No regular lectures are conducted as in conventional universities.
Learn via self-study course material in the printed form and audio/visual aids.
Extensive support is given through online components.
Day schools (discussions), tutorials and assignments facilitate learning. Day schools can be face-to-face or via web conferencing (such as Zoom platform).
Other teaching-learning activities include compulsory practical components, continuous assessments, and final examinations.

45. What are the activities that are conducted under the courses?

About 3 or 4-day schools are conducted for each course for the students to clarify their doubts in course material.
Some courses have workshops for the students to get involved in activities related to course material.
Compulsory practical sessions or field practical sessions are conducted for most of the courses.
Before the final examination, a revision day school is conducted to revise the course material and train students to properly answer the final exam questions.
Your progress in a course is evaluated at least two times while the course is being offered. Evaluations are done by Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs). If a course has a practical component its assessment also becomes a part of the Continuous Assessment.
All the courses have Final Examinations (FE) at the end of the semester.

46. What are course material?

These are carefully prepared printed material comprising the contents of the courses in the form that facilitated self-learning. These are especially designed to enable you to achieve the Learning Outcomes of the courses.
Printed course material is supplemented with audio visual and online learning material to make your studies more meaningful.

47. When will I be issued my course material?

Course material will be issued after your registration in print/soft copy format. You need to produce your record book to obtain course material.

48. How can I obtain the activity schedule (timetable) of an academic year?

Activity Schedule for a semester (half of an academic year) will be displayed in Faculty webpage and the MyOUSL (the online student portal) before starting academic activities.
Also, each department offering the disciplines will prepare their own, more user-friendly activity schedules and will make them available under departmental web pages and MyOUSL (the online student portal).

49. What are day schools?

Day schools are interactive sessions where you are given an opportunity to meet the academic staff coordinating the course (your course teachers) and discuss problems you may come across in studying your course material.
Day schools are not compulsory, but you are strongly recommended to participate.

50. What are workshops?

Workshops are held to do activities, questions, sums etc. related to the course, to make students more familiar with them.
Only some courses have workshops, and we recommend your participation. Sometimes, attendance may also be compulsory.

51. What are practical classes?

A practical is a ‘hands-on’ class which allows you apply the theories you are learning in your course in practical situations and gain valuable practical skills.
The practical component of a course is a compulsory activity.
Usually, practical classes are held on weekdays and take about 2 ½ to 5 consecutive days. Therefore, if you are employed, you should be able to get leave to attend practical classes. for some of the courses, this period has now been reduced by adding an online component that can be done at home.

52. What are revision day schools?

Revision day schools are held about a month prior to the commencement of the final examinations to revise the course contents and guide students to face final examinations successfully.

53. How is my performance in a course assessed?

Assessment criteria are similar for almost all the programmes, but the percentages may vary depending on the programme. Assessment criteria for the bachelor’s degrees are given below. For other programmes, please refer the course guidebooks.

The final grade you receive for a course depends on the overall mark you obtain taking 60% from final exam mark (FEM) and 40% from overall continuous assessment mark (OCAM). This is valid only if you have an FEM ≥ 30, or else, only the FEM mark will give your grade.
OCAM is calculated considering marks of all the continuous assessment (CAM) tests and practical assessment mark (PAM).
Your performance at the practical session is important and 30% of the PAM is considered for OCAM. If you fail the practical (if PAM is < 30) your OCAM will be 0 (zero) and you will not be eligible (not eligible) to sit for the final exam of this course.
Contribution from the two CA tests to OCAM may vary, usually, a higher percentage being taken from the higher mark and a lower percentage from the lower mark.
If the OCAM is < 35, you are not eligible to sit the final examination and you are considered as a repeat student for that course. You need to register for this course in the next year paying money and you will not obtain a grade higher that ‘C’ even if you perform well.
If your OCAM is ≥ than 35, you are eligible to sit for the final examination in that academic year and the very next subsequent academic year.

54. What is LearnOUSL?

In order to give you additional help, courses in the degree programme are supplemented with an online component through LearnOUSL. Once you register for courses, you will be able to access this component and will be informed and advised on how to access and use it.
You will be able to receive announcements and additional information about each of your courses, electronic version of the printed material, additional reading material, PowerPoint presentations, videos, quizzes, past CAT and FE papers and CAM through this online course.
Further, there is a discussion forum through which you can discuss course related matters with your co-ordinator and fellow students.

55. What is MyOUSL?

This is the student portal of the university management information system.
Through this you can receive the notices and documents sent to you by the Faculty and Departments.
You can check your progress, that is, the courses you have registered for and their current status; whether your eligibility is pending, you are eligible to sit the final exams or your grade after release of results.
You will also be required to apply to sit for your final examination through MyOUSL.

56. Where can I get further information and help?

The Faculty Prospectus (for Bachelor’s Degree) and Student Guidebooks for each programme: These publications provide important information in more detail for prospective and registered students.
Orientation and counselling sessions: These are events where you will be provided with advice on how to make decisions regarding your studies before you register for a programme.
Staff contact: After registering, students can meet academic staff in the relevant department and get advice/ clarify doubts on academic related queries. They may also be contacted by telephone or email (contact details available in Prospectus and Guidebooks.
You may also contact the relevant Head of Department or Dean of the Faculty for department-specific or faculty-specific clarifications.