PGIS -M.Sc. Programmes 2011/2012 - Call for Applications

The deadline for the receipt of applications for the programmes listed below has been extended up to 15th August 2011. Those who have already applied for any of the M.Sc. programmes in response to the previous advertisement appeared on Sunday Observer of 3rd April 2011 need not reapply [Please note that the M.Sc. and the Postgraduate Diploma programmes in Science Education did not appear in the previous advertisement, and that these programmes are scheduled to commence in December 2011].
The programme fee can be paid in full or in two installments: 50% during registration and 50% at the beginning of the second semester.

+	M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc programme is designed to train analytical chemists who could contribute in many diverse areas such as Food and Beverage Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Healthcare, Environmental Control, Agriculture, etc. covering quality control, research and development work and manufacturing processes in industry, university and other research laboratories. (Programme Fee - Rs. 100,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Applied Epidemiology (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. program, which is being offered for the first time in Sri Lanka, provides advanced knowledge of epidemiological concepts with training in essential methodological skills required to conduct epidemiological studies; apply epidemiological principles for surveillance and control of diseases within animal and human populations. This program is especially designed for medical, dental, veterinary and science graduates (Programme Fee - Rs. 100,000).
+	M.Sc. in Applied Statistics (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme provides an adequate coverage of basic statistical theory, applications in design of experiments and surveys, data analysis and methods of presentation and interpretation of results. At the completion of the programme the candidate will be able to fit in as an applied statistician in a research institute, planning institute or other state or private sector institute. (Programme Fee - Rs. 60,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Biodiversity, Ecotourism & Environment Management (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme deals with biodiversity and other natural resources, cultural heritage, local produce and traditional professions of Sri Lanka that interest an ecotourist. It would also show the importance of environment conservation and management in protecting biodiversity, natural resources and cultural heritage, which would in turn greatly benefit the ecotourism industry. (Programme Fee - Rs. 80,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Computer Science (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme provides computer science/non-computer science graduates an advanced knowledge and training in information technology. At the completion of the programme, the candidate is qualified to seek a career in any computerized enterprise or a research or educational institute or to pursue higher studies. (Programme Fee - Rs. 110,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Disaster Management* (Course Content) (Application) conducted jointly with the Faculty of Engineering, University of Peradeniya This M.Sc. Programme gives a rare opportunity for graduates with different backgrounds to gain a focused understanding of disaster management and mitigation. The programme has, as its long term objective, the sustainable training of well accomplished professionals who would be available to carry out a range of activities related to hazard, vulnerability, risk analysis and mitigation. Their skills achieved in participatory risk assessment techniques, forecasting methods, environmental management and GIS applications should indeed satisfy the aspirations of Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management efforts. Visiting experts from ITC (The Netherlands), Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre - ADPC (Thailand), SCRIPP’s Institute of Oceanography (USA), and other foreign countries also conduct several course modules and laboratory sessions. Possibility of overseas training exist for deserving students. (Programme Fee - Rs. 90,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Environmental Science (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme encompasses environmental aspects of all areas of science. It covers advanced training in air pollution, water pollution, environmental impact assessment, cleaner production, waste management, etc. It is intended for those aspiring to become environmental scientists and managers and also for those who need to improve their skills and knowledge. (Programme Fee - Rs. 80,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme provides advanced knowledge and training in Biotechnology that could be applied in the fields of medicine, agriculture, environment, pharmaceuticals, and biomedical research and industry. The main emphasis of this uniquely designed programme is to impart a sound knowledge in hands-on skills in the experimental aspects of Biotechnology. The high programme fee reflects the high cost of chemicals used. (Programme Fee - Rs. 200,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Gemmology and Industrial Minerals (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme trains professionals in the exploitation and processing of precious materials and industrial minerals in Sri Lanka through selection, design, recognition, technical analysis and acquisition. The programme provides an advanced knowledge in the natural processes pertaining to the formation of gems or minerals /precious stones/semiprecious stones and quantification of mineral resources. (Programme Fee - Rs. 100,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in GIS and Remote Sensing (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme is uniquely designed to train students from a range of disciplines - physical sciences, engineering, biological sciences, agriculture, surveying, geography, etc. The programme will give an all-round knowledge of GIS, Remote Sensing and GPS, and will also cover current technological developments in those areas. It is designed to produce high quality graduates who will be able to solve local, regional and global problems using GIS and Remote Sensing. Visiting experts from ITC (The Netherlands) and AIT (Thailand) conduct several course modules both locally and abroad. Training will be provided at the GIS and RS Laboratory of the PGIS, equipped with 50 computers and GIS/RS software. (Programme Fee - Rs. 100,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme provides an adequate coverage of important aspects of Chemical Industry including Chemistry, Basic Concepts of Chemical Engineering, Chemical Technology and Industrial Economics. The necessary practical training will be provided in areas relevant to chemical industry. (Programme Fee - Rs. 100,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (Course Content) (Application) Nanoscience and Nanotechnology are fast growing areas of Science and Technology which span the entire spectrum of science and technology including next generation electronics, engineering materials, advanced materials and coatings, devices, computers, medicine, textiles, sports equipment, polymers, biology, agriculture, food science, etc. This M.Sc. programme will cover a broad range of disciplines to enable the trained graduates to make an objective judgment of the scientific importance and technological potential of developments in micro- and nanotechnologies and to perform a range of activities related to Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. The study programme will thus prepare the student to take the challenge of meeting not only national needs in diverse areas of nanoscience and nanotechnology but also to continue toward advanced studies anywhere in the world. (Programme Fee - Rs. 120,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Ocenaography (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme seeks to provide a sound theoretical and practical knowledge and comprehensive training in the application of scientific knowledge to understand the phenomena of the oceanic and coastal environments. The programme is designed with a view to promoting and conducting research activities directed towards the identification, assessment, management and development of aquatic resources, particularly the fields of marine and adjacent water bodies. The programme is conducted in collaboration with experts from NARA and the Institute of Oceanography, University of Gothenburg, Sweden. (Programme Fee - Rs. 100,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Physics of Materials (Course Content) (Application) A sound knowledge in Science and Technology of materials is necessary for the efficient use of materials in industry. The broad aim of this M.Sc. programme is to provide a basic knowledge in Physics of Materials with emphasis on technologically important materials and newly emerging area of nanomaterials and nanotechnology. This programme will train graduates required for various industries and also to improve the knowledge and skills of personnel already employed in the industrial sector. (Programme Fee - Rs. 90,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Plant Sciences (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme would provide a sound training in a range of skills in plant sciences. The programme is especially designed aiming employment opportunities in the relevant state and private sector institutes. The main objectives of the programme are (i) to impart advanced theoretical knowledge in plant sciences, (ii) to provide training in more demanding areas of plant sciences and make the students more employable and (iii) to provide necessary skills to embark on research based (M.Phil./Ph.D.) postgraduate programmes. (Programme Fee - Rs. 80,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Postharvest Technology of Fruits & Vegetables (Course Content) (Application) This M.Sc. programme offers extensive coverage of basic principles of all essential components of fresh produce technology including physiology, packing, transport, storage, processing, disease etc. and their applications in proper post-harvest management and marketing. The programme provides an insight into latest scientific and technological advances in the area and is suitable for industry, research and academic personnel. Students may also be able to participate in workshops conducted by foreign experts in this field. (Programme Fee - Rs. 80,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Science Education (Course Content) (Application)(scheduled to commence in December 2011) The M.Sc. programme in Science Education is a full-time programme. It is designed especially for science teachers and educationists and for those who could contribute to the development of science education in Sri Lanka. The programme consists of a professional general component of Science Education, and a special component from one of the four subject areas: Biology Education, Chemistry Education, Mathematics Education and Physics Education. In addition, practicals, a research project and a seminar in the special component are also included in the programme. State-of-the-art activity-based and interactive methods of teaching forms a significant part of training. (Programme Fee - Rs. 60,000/-).
+	M.Sc. in Water Resources Management (Course Content) (Application) The objective of this M.Sc. programme is to provide engineers and scientists with expert, up-to-date knowledge in the fields of Water Resources, Hydraulics and Water Resources Assessment, Evaluation, Development and Management. The programme will provide the candidates with a sound theoretical and practical knowledge of the principles of water resources management, and enable them to update their hydraulics and computational expertise to appreciate the environmental implications of water resources and to develop management skills. (Programme Fee - Rs. 100,000/-).
+	Postgraduate Diploma in Science Education (scheduled to commence in December 2011) (Course Content) (Application) This Diploma programme is designed especially for science graduates who are planning to become teachers and for science teachers who are already employed in government and private schools. The postgraduate Diploma in Science Education is considered by the Ministry of Education for promotions in the teachers’ service. (Programme Fee - Rs. 50,000/-).

These M.Sc. programmes are of 18 months duration and consist of taught courses (2 semesters) and a 6 month research project, which is generally industry/job oriented. Postgraduate diploma programmes are of 12 months duration and consist of only taught courses. Most programmes are conducted generally during week-ends.
A limited number of scholarships will be available based on Semester-I performance.

Admission Requirements:
A Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Engineering, Agriculture, Medicine or any other equivalent qualification from a recognized university, acceptable to the PGIS. Those who are awaiting results of their final degree examinations may also apply.