Diploma in English Language and Literature – Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL)

The Diploma in English Language and Literature at the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) is a one-year academic programme designed for students who wish to strengthen their English language proficiency and communication skills while gaining a solid grounding in English literary studies. The programme introduces learners to three major literary genres — poetry, fiction, and drama — alongside practical academic reading and writing skills essential for higher education and professional settings.

Delivered through OUSL’s distance and open learning model, this diploma is accessible to working professionals, teachers, and students across all nine regional centres island-wide, making it one of the most flexible English language diploma programmes available in Sri Lanka.

Who Is This Programme For?

• Those who wish to develop their English communication skills and gain a foundation in English Literature
• Practising English teachers seeking to deepen their understanding and appreciation of language and literature
• Professionals or graduates seeking a higher academic qualification in English
• Anyone looking to improve their academic reading and writing capabilities

Programme Modules

Admission Requirements

Candidates must be over 18 years of age and have fulfilled at least ONE of the following criteria:

1. Passed the OUSL Certificate in Professional English (after 2012) with a minimum of 3 “C” passes; or
2. Passed the OUSL Advanced Certificate in English for Business and Professional Communication Stage II, with a minimum of two B+ grades in Writing Skills and Reading & Comprehension, and two B- grades in Listening & Speech Skills and Business Communication; or
3. Passed the OUSL Advanced Certificate in English for Professional Communication with a minimum of two B grades for LEC2525 and LEC2527; or
4. Obtained three (3) passes at GCE A/L and passed the Selection Test conducted by the Department of Language Studies; or
5. Passed any Foundation Course offered by the OUSL and passed the Selection Test; or
6. Obtained any equivalent or higher qualification acceptable to the Senate of OUSL and passed the Selection Test.

Selection Test Details

Applicants who apply under criteria (d), (e), or (f) are required to sit a Selection Test:

OUSL Regional Centres

Colombo · Kandy · Matara · Anuradhapura · Jaffna · Batticaloa · Kurunegala · Badulla · Ratnapura

Fee Breakdown (Local Students)

How to Apply

• Online applications only — no physical application forms accepted
• Apply at: apply.lmsousl.lk
• Application fee can be paid online via debit/credit card or in cash at any OUSL Regional or Study Centre
• 📄 Download the Programme Brochure