Ceylon University College

Ceylon University College

Ceylon University College, located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, was a prestigious institution that laid the foundation for modern higher education in the country. Established in 1921, it played a pivotal role in nurturing academic excellence, fostering research initiatives, and contributing to the intellectual and cultural development of Sri Lanka.

• Established: 1921
• Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka

The college offered an enriching academic environment where students from diverse backgrounds engaged in learning, debate, and innovation. Ceylon University College eventually merged with the University of Ceylon in 1942, creating Sri Lanka’s first full-fledged university.

Programs Offered

The college offered a wide range of undergraduate programs in arts, science, and oriental studies, establishing the groundwork for higher education in these fields.

Undergraduate Programs

• Arts and Humanities
  • English Literature
  • History
  • Philosophy
• Sciences
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Botany
  • Zoology
• Oriental Studies
  • Sanskrit
  • Tamil
  • Sinhala

Legacy of Academic Progress

The programs laid the academic framework for subsequent universities in Sri Lanka, advancing scholarship in arts, sciences, and cultural studies.

Tuition Fees

At the time of operation, the tuition fees were nominal, focusing on making higher education accessible to a broader section of society.

Living Costs

Ceylon University College supported its students with affordable housing and meal options.

Main Expenses

Expense Category	Cost Range (per month)	Annual Estimate (12 months)
Accommodation (On-Campus)	$50 – $100 USD	$600 – $1,200 USD
Private Accommodation	$150 – $250 USD	$1,800 – $3,000 USD
Food	$30 – $50 USD	$360 – $600 USD
Miscellaneous Expenses	$20 – $40 USD	$240 – $480 USD

• Total Monthly Estimate: $100 – $250 USD
• Total Annual Estimate: $1,200 – $3,000 USD

Accommodation Options

• University-Managed Dormitories:
  • Shared rooms with basic amenities.
  • Cost: $50 – $100 USD per month.
• Private Accommodation:
  • Apartments or shared housing near the university.
  • Cost: $150 – $250 USD per month.

Dining and Food Options

• On-Campus Dining Halls:
  • Affordable meals featuring local Sri Lankan cuisine.
  • Cost per meal: $0.50 – $1.00 USD.
• Local Restaurants and Markets:
  • Local eateries provided meals costing $1 – $3 USD.
  • Fresh produce for self-cooking was available at budget-friendly rates.

Legacy Impact

Ceylon University College’s contributions to Sri Lanka’s educational landscape remain unparalleled. As a precursor to the University of Ceylon, it cultivated an intellectual community that profoundly influenced the nation’s academic, cultural, and political spheres.

Today, its legacy is celebrated as a cornerstone of higher education, emphasizing the principles of accessibility, excellence, and cultural enrichment.