University of Colombo MPA&M 2026/27 is a one-year Master of Public Administration and Management offered by the Faculty of Graduate Studies. The programme is taught online on weekday evenings, while examinations are held on-site. It carries 30 credits at Sri Lanka Qualifications Framework (SLQF) Level 9. This guide brings together the published fees, entry requirements and application information for prospective students.
Application update (26 September 2026): The Faculty lists a 2026/27 MPA&M intake, but its programme page does not currently state an application closing date. Confirm the latest deadline and submission instructions with the Faculty before paying a fee or sending documents.
University of Colombo MPA&M at a glance
| Awarding institution | University of Colombo, Faculty of Graduate Studies |
|---|---|
| Programme | Master of Public Administration and Management (MPA&M), online weekday-evening mode |
| Duration and level | One year; 30 credits; SLQF Level 9 |
| Teaching and exams | Online teaching on weekday evenings; examinations on-site |
| Language | English |
| Local course fee | LKR 229,500, plus the separate charges listed below |
| Foreign student course fee | USD 3,073, plus the separate charges listed below |
MPA&M fees for local and foreign students
The Faculty publishes the following fee components. The application fee is separate from the course fee. Check the university’s current payment instructions before transferring money.
| Fee | Local students | Foreign students |
|---|---|---|
| Application | LKR 3,000 | USD 40 |
| Registration | LKR 5,000 | USD 65 |
| Course | LKR 229,500 | USD 3,073 |
| Library | LKR 1,500 | USD 20 |
| Examination | LKR 14,000 | USD 175 |
| Refundable library deposit | LKR 5,000 | LKR 5,000 |
The official page describes the library deposit as refundable. It does not set out a payment schedule for this intake, so ask the Faculty when each charge is due.
Who can apply?
The Faculty lists five alternative academic or professional routes. Applicants also need a good knowledge of English and satisfactory performance at a selection test and/or interview.
- A bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from a recognised university or institution.
- Another bachelor’s degree, together with prior learning or work experience in Public Administration.
- An SLQF Level 8 postgraduate diploma, or an equivalent qualification accepted by the Faculty Board and University Senate, together with relevant prior learning or experience.
- A professional qualification in Public Administration from a recognised body accepted by the Faculty Board and Senate, together with relevant prior learning or experience.
- NVQ Level 7 with relevant Public Administration experience, as determined by the Faculty Board and Senate.
Meeting a listed route does not replace the Faculty’s assessment. If your qualification or experience is unusual, contact the programme team before applying.
What will you study?
The published modules cover public administration and governance, financial management, project management and strategic management in Semester I. Semester II covers public procurement, information systems, research methods and an independent study. The online teaching format may suit working professionals, but applicants must be able to attend examinations on-site.
How to apply for the 2026/27 intake
- Check the official MPA&M programme page. Confirm the current intake notice, closing date and application form with the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
- Review the entry criteria and fees. Confirm that your qualification and Public Administration experience match a published route.
- Follow the Faculty’s current application and payment instructions. The programme page says applications may be downloaded from the Faculty website and directed to the Senior Assistant Registrar, Faculty of Graduate Studies, No. 35/30, Prof. Stanley Wijesundara Mawatha, Colombo 07. Confirm the method required for this intake before sending an application.
- Keep copies of your documents and payment record. Ask the Faculty which supporting documents are required for your route.
Use the university as the final authority. The official course page does not currently specify a 2026/27 deadline, bank account number or intake-specific online application link. Verify those details directly before submitting or paying.
Frequently asked questions
Is the University of Colombo MPA&M fully online?
No. Teaching is online on weekday evenings, but the Faculty says examinations are conducted on-site.
How long is the programme?
The published duration is one year. The qualification has 30 credits at SLQF Level 9.
Can graduates from another subject apply?
Yes. The Faculty lists another bachelor’s degree with prior learning or work experience in Public Administration as an entry route. Selection is subject to its assessment process.
Is there an independent study module?
Yes. MPAM 6208, Independent Study, is listed among the Semester II modules.
What is the 2026/27 application deadline?
The official programme page checked on 26 September 2026 does not give a closing date. Check with the Faculty for the latest intake notice.
Official sources and contact details
- Faculty of Graduate Studies: MPA&M programme, fees and entry criteria
- Faculty of Graduate Studies: master’s programme listing
The official programme page lists course coordinator Dr. G. R. P. Silva at grpriyankara@hrm.cmb.ac.lk and course assistant Ms. Ishara Ramanayaka at mpamwd@fgs.cmb.ac.lk.
BrightNook is an independent education information website. The University of Colombo controls admissions, fees, deadlines and application instructions. Details above were checked against its Faculty of Graduate Studies pages on 26 September 2026.
