Chemistry is the foundation for all other sciences. It embraces the areas of medicine, engineering, agriculture, environment, biotechnology and nanotechnology. The beauty of this subject lies in its applicability to all aspects of our lives. In recognizing the importance of chemistry, Sri Lankan education system has made it a key subject in the curriculum of the secondary level of science education. It is imperative that the teaching of chemistry be conducted in such a manner to lay a strong foundation on which the students’ future careers would be building upon. With the advancement of science & technology, the understanding of core concepts in chemistry has been made easier, enabling the learning of Chemistry interesting and rewarding. 

This program is, therefore, designed to impart new approaches to teaching and learning chemistry, and to update the subject knowledge in both chemistry and science education. This course is of value to those who are currently working in the field of chemistry education in state or private sectors and for those seeking employment in the field of chemistry education.

• Reinforce and update the knowledge of chemistry 
• Enhance the teaching skills and motivation by using modern methods of teaching, lecture demonstrations and laboratory experiments 
• Introduce Information technology and molecular modeling in chemistry teaching
• Provide through teaching practice/presentation of lesson plans 
• Develop the ability for research in education

Course work including practical sessions are assessed using continuous assessments, written examinations, presentations, group work and viva voce examinations.

Part 2 in which the students undertake a research project under the guidance of an academic staff member will be evaluated based on a report submitted, a presentation and a viva voce examination.

PART 1: Postgraduate Diploma (26 credits) – SLQF 8

Students will be assessed both on continuous basis as well as by periodical tests based on the theory modules and laboratory work carried out during the program. There will be a written examination for most of the theory modules at the end of each semester. Candidates will be allowed to proceed to Part 2 when he/ she obtained a minimum GPA stipulated by the Faculty. 

PART 2: M.Sc. by Course Work (05 credits) – SLQF 9

The report submitted by the candidate at the end of the Chemistry Education project will be evaluated. A viva voce examination will be held.

PART 3: M.Sc. by Research (30 credits) – SLQF 10

More information will be provided to the eligible candidates.

Chemistry and Chemistry Education lectures are conducted by the academic staff members of the Department of Chemistry, University of Colombo and visiting lecturers from other universities with relevant teaching experience.

Educational concepts are taught by the academic staff members of the Faculty of Education, University of Colombo.

For further information regarding the M.Sc. program in chemistry education, contact the program coordinator.

Contact details of the programme coordinator is as follows.