You have completed your A/L exams and are interested in pursuing an IT or Computer Science degree. However, since you were not selected for a Sri Lankan state university, or if you have already completed an undergraduate degree and are now considering a master’s program,
there are several options available in Sri Lanka to complete an undergraduate or masters degree through a private institution.
The first option is to enroll in locally offered degree programs. The second option is to enroll in degree programs affiliated with foreign universities, particularly from the United Kingdom or Australia. Here, we focus on specialized degree programs that are more job-oriented.
When it comes to foreign undergraduate degrees, there are two popular options offered in Sri Lanka: the Top-Up degree and the full degree program.
A Top-Up degree generally consists of the final year of a full degree program, most commonly offered by universities from the United Kingdom (UK). It often requires a Higher National Diploma (HND) as a prerequisite.
On the other hand, in a full degree program, you will study the same first- and second-year modules as those in the affiliated foreign university’s degree program.
After reading this you will get to know about IT degrees available in Sri Lanka.
- Which private institution offering those degree.
- Overview of course content.
- What do you mean by Foreign university degree or local degree.
- Degree award accreditation. ( UGC approval)
- Job perspective
- Requirements or qualifications.
Here, we have used terms like “local degree” and “foreign university degree.” Below, we will clearly outline the differences between these types of degrees.
Local Degree
The degree is awarded by the same institution in which you are enrolled, and the syllabus is entirely prepared by that institution. This degree program must be approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Sri Lanka; otherwise, it is considered invalid.
Foreign Degree
The degree is awarded by the affiliated foreign university, not by the institution providing the instruction. The syllabus is entirely prepared by the affiliated foreign university. This degree does not need to be approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Sri Lanka, but it should be recognized by it. To gain recognition, the foreign university should be listed in the Commonwealth Universities Yearbook and the World Higher Education Database.
Table of contents
1. Software Engineering
Software engineering is the field focused on designing, building, testing, and maintaining software that solves real-world problems. At its core, software engineering is about creating programs and applications that people can rely on, whether for work, entertainment, health, or everyday life.
Engineers in this field use structured methods and coding languages to develop software, ensuring it’s efficient, secure, and easy to use. They work collaboratively in teams, often combining creativity with logic to find innovative solutions. This field also requires constant learning, as technology evolves quickly, and new tools and techniques emerge regularly.
Overall, software engineering is a mix of technical skill and problem-solving, with a strong focus on quality, user experience, and reliability. It’s a career that balances science with creativity, providing endless opportunities to shape the digital world.
1.1 Software Engineering degree awards in Sri Lankan institutions
1.1.1 Undergraduate Software Engineering degrees
1.1.1.1 Local Software Engineering Degrees
1.1.1.1.1 BSc (Hons) in Information Technology Specialising in Software Engineering From SLIIT
Course Content
Year 1 modules | Year 2 modules |
---|---|
Introduction to Programming | Probability and Statistics |
Data Communication Networks | Object Oriented Programming |
Mathematics for Computing | Operating Systems & System Administration |
Fundamentals of Computing | Database Design and Development |
Discrete Mathematics | Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning |
Data Structures and Algorithms | IT Project |
Software Engineering | Web and Mobile Technologies |
Technical Writing | Professional Skills |
Year 3 Modules | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Economics & Management | Research Project – I |
Software Engineering Frameworks | Secure Software Development |
Architecture based Development | Cloud Native Development |
Quality Managment in Software Engineering | Deep Learning |
Industry Training | Mobile Application Design & Development |
Distributed Systems | Research Project – II |
User Experience Research & Design | Current Trends in Software Engineering |
Research Methods | Enterprise Application Development |
Big Data & Data Analytics | |
Parallel Computing |
1.1.1.2 Foreign Software Engineering degrees
1.1.1.2.1. BEng (Hons) Software Engineering From APIIT
Course content
Year 1 Modules | Year 2 |
---|---|
Software Development and Application Modelling | Commercial Computing for Software Engineers |
Digital Technologies | Databases and Data Structures |
Networking Concepts and Cyber Security | Server-Side Programming |
Web Development and Operating Systems | Mobile App Development |
Year 3 | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Placement up to 1 Year | Emerging Technologies |
Software Engineering Final Year Project | |
Clean Coding and Networks | |
Enterprise Cloud and Distributed Web Applications |
1.1.1.2.2. BSC (HONS) IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING from NSBM
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Introduction to Computer Science | Software Engineering 02 |
Programming in C | Information Management and Retrieval |
Professional Development | Introduction to IOT |
Mathematics for Computing | Software Development Tools and Practices |
Algorithms and Data Structures | Mobile Application Development |
Database Management Systems | |
Web Based Application Development | |
Object Oriented Programming with C# | |
System Analysis and Design | |
Computer Architecture |
Year 3 |
---|
Computing Individual Project |
Full Stack Development |
AI and Machine Learning |
Software Project Management |
HCI, Computer Graphics and Visualization |
1.1.1.2.3. BENG (HONS) IN SOFTWARE ENGINEERING from IIT
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Trends in Computer Science | Object Oriented Programming |
Computer Systems Fundamentals | Database Systems |
Software Development I | Software Development Group Project |
Web Design and Development | Software Engineering Principles and Practice |
Mathematics for Computing | Algorithms: Theory, Design and Implementation |
Software Development II |
Year 2 – Optional and selective modules | Year 3 |
---|---|
Mobile Application Development | A 12-month Compulsory placement |
Server-side Web Development | |
Operating Systems Programming | |
Robotic Principles | |
Business Analytics | |
Machine learning and Data Mining |
Year 4 | Year 4 Optional modules |
---|---|
Final Year Project | Advanced Server-side Web Programming |
Formal Methods | Applied Robotics |
Cyber-Security | Advanced Analytics |
Concurrent Programming | Mobile Native Application Development |
Internet of Things | |
Operational Research and Optimisation |
1.1.2 Post graduate Software Engineering Degrees
1.1.2.1 Local Software Engineering Degrees
1.1.2.1.1. Master of Science in Information Technology – Enterprise Applications Development from SLIIT
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Advanced Learning and Study Skills | Research Project |
Enterprise Software Analysis and Design | Architecting Enterprise Cloud Solutions |
Enterprise Mobility | Elective Modules |
Enterprise Software Architecture | Data Analytics |
Elective Modules | Machine Learnings |
DevOps | Operating System Design and Implementation |
Internet of Things | Research Project (Contd.) |
Research Methodology | Elective modules |
Distributed Computing | Emerging Topics in Information Technology |
Rapid Application Development | Secure Software Life Cycle Engineering |
Elective Modlues | |
Artificial Intelligence | |
Advanced Database Technologies |
1.1.2.2 Foreign Software Engineering degrees
1.1.2.2.1. MSc Advanced Software Engineering from IIT
Year 1 | Optional Modules |
---|---|
Advanced Software Design | Data Mining and Machine Learning |
Concurrent and Distributed Systems | Mobile Application Development |
Enterprise Application Development | Advanced Big Data Analytics |
Cloud Computing Applications | IOT Technologies |
MSc Project | Usability and User Experience Design |
1.1.2.2.2. MSc in Software Engineering – University of West London from ANC
Year 1 |
---|
Advanced Topics in Software Engineering |
Big Data Analytics |
Research Methods |
Mobile Web Component Development |
Machine Learning |
Consultancy and Technological Innovation |
Dissertation |
1.2 Software Engineering Job perspective in Sri Lanka
1. A Software Engineer is a tech problem-solver who designs, develops, and maintains software applications that help make computers, apps, and systems run smoothly. They start by understanding what users or businesses need, then they write the code that makes everything work.
Software Engineers break down big challenges into smaller tasks, write instructions for computers in different programming languages, and test their code to make sure it’s bug-free. They also keep software updated and secure as technology evolves. Ultimately, a Software Engineer’s role is to create efficient, reliable software that people can trust and enjoy using every day.
2. A Web Developer is someone who builds and maintains websites and web applications. They bring designs and ideas to life on the internet, making sure sites look good, work fast, and are easy to use.
Web Developers use coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the front end (what you see and interact with) and sometimes work on the back end (behind-the-scenes stuff that powers a site). They test websites to make sure everything works well on different devices, like phones and computers. In short, a Web Developer makes sure websites are functional, user-friendly, and ready to impress visitors.
3. A Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer is someone who makes sure that software works as it should. They test applications to find any bugs, glitches, or issues before they reach the users.
QA Engineers design test plans, run tests, and check that every feature works smoothly and meets quality standards. They often work closely with developers to understand how the software is supposed to function and suggest improvements. In a nutshell, a QA Engineer’s role is to catch problems early, ensure reliability, and help deliver a polished, error-free experience for users.
2. Network Engineering
Network engineering is all about building, maintaining, and improving the technology that lets computers and devices communicate with each other. Think of it as creating and managing the “roads” that data travels on. Network engineers design systems that allow information to move smoothly between users, whether it’s within a small office or across global networks.
They work with hardware like routers and switches, as well as software that directs data flow, ensuring everything stays connected, secure, and fast. Their job is crucial to keeping businesses, homes, and even entire cities connected and running smoothly every day.
2.1. Network Engineering degree awards in Sri Lankan institutions
2.1.1 Undergraduate Network Engineering degrees
2.1.1.1 Local Network Engineering Degrees
2.1.1.1.1 BSc (Hons) in Information Technology Specialising in Computer Systems & Network Engineering From SLIIT
Course Content
Year 1 modules | Year 2 modules |
---|---|
Introduction to Programming | Probability and Statistics |
Data Communication Networks | Object Oriented Programming |
Mathematics for Computing | Operating Systems & System Administration |
Fundamentals of Computing | Database Design and Development |
Discrete Mathematics | Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning |
Data Structures and Algorithms | Data Communication and Wireless Networks |
Software Engineering | Network Management and Systems Administration |
Technical Writing | Professional Skills |
Year 3 Modules | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Economics & Management | Research Project – I |
Network programming | DevOps |
Virtualization and Cloud Computing Technologies | Network Storage and Architecture |
Advanced Network Engineering | Data & Systems Security |
Industry Training | Governance, Risk Management & Compliance |
Capstone Project | Research Project – II |
Enterprise Network and Systems Security | Software Defined Networks |
Research Methods | Robotics and Intelligent Systems |
Internet of Things |
2.1.1.2 Foreign Network Engineering degrees
2.1.1.2.1 BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Network Computing) From APIIT
Course content
Year 1 Modules | Year 2 |
---|---|
Software Development and Application Modelling | Commercial Computing |
Digital Technologies | Databases and Data Structures |
Networking Concepts and Cyber Security | Cyber Operations and Network Security |
Web Development and Operating Systems | Routed and Switched Architecture |
Year 3 | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Placement up to 1 Year | Emerging Technologies |
Final Year Project | |
Troubleshooting and Future Technologies | |
Advanced Networks and Operating System Security |
2.1.1.2.2 BSC (HONS) IN Computer Networks from NSBM
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Introduction to Computer Science | Software Engineering 02 |
Programming in C | Information Management and Retrieval |
Professional Development | Introduction to IOT |
Mathematics for Computing | Security Architecture and Cryptography |
Algorithms and Data Structures | Computer Networks |
Database Management Systems | |
Web Based Application Development | |
Object Oriented Programming with C# | |
System Analysis and Design | |
Computer Architecture |
Year 3 |
---|
Computing Individual Project |
Multimedia Over IP |
Security Operations and Incident Management |
Advanced Computer Networking Infrastructure |
Ethical Hacking |
2.1.2 Post graduate Network Engineering Degrees
2.1.2.1 Local Network Engineering Degrees
2.1.2.1.1 Master of Science in Network Engineering from SLIIT
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Internetworking | Research Project |
Data Communication | 3 Elective |
Operating Systems for Networking | Network Security |
Mathematics for Network Engineering | Network Service Management |
Network Design and Performance Evaluation | Network Operations |
Wireless Networks | Emerging Topics in Networking |
Research Methods | Enterprise Networking |
Cloud Computing and Virtualization | Optical Communication |
1 Elective | |
IT laws and Governance | |
Project Management for Networking |
2.1.2.2 Foreign Network Engineering degrees
2.1.2.2.1 Master of Science in Network & Information Security – Kingston University from ESoft
Year 1 |
---|
Data Communications |
Network and Information Security |
Project Dissertation |
Wireless Communications and Network |
Cryptography and Applications |
2.2 Network Engineering Job perspective in Sri Lanka
1. A Network Engineer is a tech expert who designs, sets up, and maintains the networks that connect computers, devices, and systems within a company or across the internet. They make sure information flows smoothly, securely, and quickly between different locations, whether it’s in the same building or across the globe.
Network Engineers troubleshoot issues, upgrade network hardware, and keep everything safe from cyber threats. In simple terms, a Network Engineer builds and manages the “roads” that data travels on, making sure everything stays connected and works without interruption.
2. A Network Administrator is responsible for managing and supporting the day-to-day operations of a company’s computer network. They ensure that all network systems, like routers, switches, and servers, are running smoothly and securely.
Network Administrators handle tasks like setting up user accounts, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and applying updates to keep the network safe. They monitor network performance and respond quickly to any problems to minimize downtime. In short, a Network Administrator keeps a company’s network reliable, secure, and ready for everyone to use without interruptions.
3. Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is all about protecting digital information and systems from threats. Think of it as guarding doors, windows, and safes—but in the online world. This field focuses on keeping data safe from hackers, malware, and other digital risks.
Cybersecurity experts work to secure networks, protect personal and financial information, and prevent cyber-attacks that could harm businesses and individuals. It’s a mix of technology, strategy, and constant vigilance, as threats are always evolving. In a world where so much is digital, cybersecurity acts as the shield that keeps our online lives secure and private.
3.1. Cybersecurity degree awards in Sri Lankan institutions
3.1.1 Undergraduate Cybersecurity degrees
3.1.1.1 Local Cybersecurity Degrees
3.1.1.1.1 BSc (Hons) in Information Technology Specialising in Cyber Security From SLIIT
Course Content
Year 1 modules | Year 2 modules |
---|---|
Introduction to Programming | Probability and Statistics |
Data Communication Networks | Object Oriented Programming |
Mathematics for Computing | Operating Systems & System Administration |
Fundamentals of Computing | Database Design and Development |
Discrete Mathematics | Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning |
Data Structures and Algorithms | Introduction to Cyber Security |
Software Engineering | Network Programming |
Technical Writing | Professional Skills |
Year 3 Modules | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Economics & Management | Research Project – I |
Network Security | Governance, Risk Management & Compliance |
Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing | Secure Software Engineering |
DevOps Security | Cyber Law & Ethics |
Industry Training | Research Project – II |
Cryptography | Digital Forensics |
Ethical Hacking & Cyber Ops | Virtualization & Cloud Security |
Research Methods | Internet of Things |
3.1.1.2 Foreign Cybersecurity degrees
3.1.1.2.1 BSc (Hons) Cyber Security From APIIT
Course content
Year 1 Modules | Year 2 |
---|---|
Software Development and Application Modelling | Commercial Computing |
Digital Technologies | Cyber Operations and Network Security |
Networking Concepts and Cyber Security | Ethical Hacking |
Web Development and Operating Systems | Cyber Security |
Year 3 | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Placement up to 1 Year | Final Year Project |
IT Infrastructure Security | |
Advanced Topics in Cyber Security | |
Operating Systems Internals and Biometrics |
3.1.1.2.2 BSC (HONS) IN Computer Security from NSBM
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Introduction to Computer Science | Software Engineering 02 |
Programming in C | Information Management and Retrieval |
Professional Development | Introduction to IOT |
Mathematics for Computing | Security Architecture and Cryptography |
Algorithms and Data Structures | Computer Networks |
Database Management Systems | |
Web Based Application Development | |
Object Oriented Programming with C# | |
System Analysis and Design | |
Computer Architecture |
Year 3 |
---|
Computing Individual Project |
Multimedia Over IP |
Security Operations and Incident Management |
Advanced Computer Networking Infrastructure |
Ethical Hacking |
3.1.2 Post graduate Cybersecurity Degrees
3.1.2.1 Local Cybersecurity Degrees
3.1.2.1.1 Master of Science in Information Technology – Cyber Security from SLIIT
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Advanced Learning and Study Skills | Research Project |
Principles of Cyber Security | Penetration Testing for Enterprise Security |
Applied Network Security | Enterprise Governance of IT |
Information Security Risk Management an Audit | Elective |
Software Security | Secure Software Lifecycle Engineering |
Applied Cryptography | Information Cyberwarfare |
Information Security Management System | Semester 2 |
Cyber Forensics & Incident Response | Research Project (Contd.) |
Research Methods | Emerging Topics in Cyber Security |
Elective | |
Offensive Hacking: Tactical & Strategic | |
Mobile and Data Security |
3.1.2.2 Foreign Cybersecurity degrees
3.1.2.2.1 MSc Cyber Security and Forensics from IIT
Year 1 | Digital Forensics Pathway |
---|---|
Principles of Digital Forensics | Digital Forensics and Incident Response |
Network Security Management | Computer System Tools |
Research Methods | Digital Forensics Applications |
Cyber Security and Forensics Project |
Cyber Security Pathway |
---|
Cyber Security Applications |
Cyber Security Threats and Countermeasures |
Information Security Governance and Compliance |
3.1.2.2.1 MSc Cyber Security from APIIT
Year 1 |
---|
Cybercrime Forensic Analysis |
Digital Forensic Fundamentals |
Mobile Forensics |
Operating System Security |
Penetration Testing |
Research Methods |
Professional Secure Networks |
Cyber Operations |
Dissertation |
3.2 Cybersecurity Job perspective in Sri Lanka
1. A Cybersecurity Engineer is a tech professional who protects computer systems and networks from hacking, viruses, and other security threats. They design and implement security measures, like firewalls and encryption, to keep data safe. Cybersecurity Engineers constantly monitor for suspicious activity, respond to security breaches, and find ways to strengthen defenses.
They work closely with teams to make sure software, and systems are secure from the start. In simple terms, a Cybersecurity Engineer is like a digital guard, always working to keep valuable information and systems safe from cyber-attacks.
2. A Cybersecurity Analyst is someone who helps keep a company’s data and systems safe from cyber threats. They monitor networks and systems for unusual activity, investigate security incidents, and analyze potential risks. Cybersecurity Analysts work to understand the latest threats and use tools to detect and prevent attacks before they happen.
They also create reports on security issues and recommend ways to improve defences. In short, a Cybersecurity Analyst keeps a close eye on digital security, helping to catch threats early and protect sensitive information.
4. Data science
Data science is like the art and science of understanding information. Imagine taking huge amounts of data from different sources – like numbers, text, and even pictures – and using smart techniques to find patterns and insights hidden within them.
In data science, people use math, computer skills, and knowledge about specific topics (like health, business, or environment) to solve real-world problems. This could mean predicting weather patterns, personalizing online shopping recommendations, or finding ways to improve healthcare. At its core, data science helps us make better decisions by transforming raw data into meaningful stories and solutions.
4.1. Datascience degree awards in Sri Lankan institutions
4.1.1 Undergraduate Data science degrees
4.1.1.1 Local Data science Degrees
4.1.1.1.1 BSc (Hons) in Information Technology Specialising in Data Science From SLIIT
Course Content
Year 1 modules | Year 2 modules |
---|---|
Introduction to Programming | Probability and Statistics |
Data Communication Networks | Object Oriented Programming |
Mathematics for Computing | Operating Systems & System Administration |
Fundamentals of Computing | Database Design and Development |
Discrete Mathematics | Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning |
Data Structures and Algorithms | IT Project |
Software Engineering | Web and Mobile Technologies |
Technical Writing | Professional Skills |
Industry Training |
Year 3 Modules | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Economics & Management | Research Project – I |
Statistical Modelling | Modern Topics in Data Science |
Machine Learning | Natural Language Processing |
Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence | Software Engineering Concepts |
Industry Training | Optimization Methods |
Deep Learning | Research Project – II |
Cloud Data Analytics | Data Governance, Privacy and Security |
Research Methods | Database Implementation and Administration |
MLOps for Data Analytics |
4.1.1.2 Foreign Data science degrees
4.1.1.2.1 BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence and Data Science from IIT
Course content
Year 1 Modules | Year 2 |
---|---|
Computer Systems Fundamentals | Artificial Intelligence |
Computational Mathematics | Object Oriented Development |
Database Systems | Advanced Mathematics for Data Science |
Data Structures and Algorithms for Artificial Intelligence | Machine Learning |
Web Technology | Simulation and Modelling Techniques |
Programming Fundamentals | Data Engineering |
English Communication Skills | Data Science Group Project |
Year 3 | Year 4 |
---|---|
Industry Placement up to 1 Year | Individual Research Project |
Core Modules | Computational Intelligence |
Deep Learning | Research Trends |
Optional Modules | Optional Modules |
Internet of Things and Wearables | Machine Vision |
Edge Artificial Intelligence | Language Processing and Information Retrieval |
4.1.1.2.2 BSC (HONS) IN Data Science from NSBM
Year 1 | Year 2 |
---|---|
Introduction to Computer Science | Computational theory and statistics for computing |
Programming in C | Information Management and Retrieval |
Professional Development | Data Programming with R |
Mathematics for Computing | Computing Group Project |
Algorithms and Data Structures | Statistics for Data Science |
Database Management Systems | Data Science in Python |
Web Based Application Development | |
Object Oriented Programming with C# | |
System Analysis and Design | |
Computer Architecture |
Year 3 |
---|
Computing Project |
Natural Language Processing |
HCI, computer graphics, and visualization |
AI and Machine Learning |
Big Data Analytics |
4.1.2 Post graduate Data science Degrees
4.1.2.1 Local Data science Degrees
4.1.2.2 Foreign Data science degrees
4.1.2.2.1 MSc Data Science from NIBM
Year 1 |
---|
Principles of Data Science |
Programming for Data Science |
Information Retrieval |
Big Data Analytics Technologies |
Data Visualisation and Communication |
Artificial Neural Networks |
Machine Learning |
Data Mining |
Data Science Project |
4.2 Data Science Job perspective in Sri Lanka
1. A Data Scientist is a professional who uses data to help solve business problems and make better decisions. They collect, clean, and analyze large sets of data to find patterns, trends, and insights. Data Scientists use math, statistics, and programming to create models that can predict outcomes or help answer questions.
They often turn complex data into visual charts and reports that are easy for others to understand. In short, a Data Scientist digs deep into data to uncover valuable insights that help organizations make smart, data-driven choices.
2. A Data Analyst is someone who looks at data to help a company understand what’s happening and make informed decisions. They gather data, clean it up, and analyze it to spot trends, patterns, or areas for improvement.
Data Analysts create charts, reports, and presentations that make complex data easy to understand for others. They often work with teams to answer specific questions and support business goals. In short, a Data Analyst turns numbers into insights, helping companies make better choices based on facts and trends.
3. A Big Data Engineer is a tech expert who designs and builds systems to handle massive amounts of data efficiently. They create the pipelines and databases that collect, process, and store data from different sources so it can be analyzed later.
Big Data Engineers make sure these systems run smoothly, are fast, and can scale as data grows. They often work with technologies like Hadoop, Spark, and NoSQL databases to manage large, complex data sets. In short, a Big Data Engineer builds the foundation that allows companies to work with huge amounts of data and get valuable insights from it.
4. A Business Intelligence (BI) Engineer is a professional who helps a company make sense of its data to drive smarter business decisions. They design and develop systems that collect and organize data, often creating dashboards, reports, and tools that make data easy to understand.
BI Engineers work with different teams to ensure data is accurate and accessible, allowing decision-makers to spot trends, measure performance, and find growth opportunities. In short, a BI Engineer builds the tools that turn raw data into clear, actionable insights for a company.