In 1996, the Department of Sociology of the University of Colombo took the initiative in addressing the great need that exists in Sri Lanka for Sociological expertise by introducing a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Sociology. Since then, the Department has successfully produced a number of diploma holders catering to this important national need. The course is specifically designed to offer theoretical as well as practical insights into Applied Sociology for those who are already in employment or for recent graduates who are in search of employment in related fields. It is designed to offer a general applied orientation within the discipline of Sociology for those who have a university background in any discipline, practical field experience in any professional sphere of activity or both.
The emphasis of the program is to understand how Sociology has worked and could work in specific developmental situations. This exploration will be undertaken on the basis of a conceptual understanding of Applied Sociology as well as through a comparative understanding of how Sociology could work in different locations looking into specific case studies as well as specialized subjects such as Environment, Health, Social Policy and Social Development, and Social Issues.
The programme will be conducted over a period of one academic year, approximately during 30 weeks divided into two semesters. Classes will be held in the evenings of weekdays and on weekends. The programme consists of six taught courses that comprise of 45 contact hours. In addition, all candidates are required to write an extended essay. It is expected that the course would facilitate the dissemination of Applied Sociology in a disciplinary sense as well as in the provision of knowledge to engage in a constructive critique of development.
For further information please contact:
Dr MTM Mahees
MA Coordinator
Department of Sociology
University of Colombo
Colombo 3
Sri Lanka
Telephone: +94 (0) 112500452
Email: macoordinator@soc.cmb.ac.lk
