Physical Science

Physical science, the systematic study of the inorganic world, as distinct from the study of the organic world, which is the province of biological science. Physical science is ordinarily thought of as consisting of four broad areas: astronomy, physics, chemistry, and the Earth sciences. Each of these is in turn divided into fields and subfields. This article discusses the historical development—with due attention to the scope, principal concerns, and methods of the first three of these areas. The Earth sciences are discussed in a separate article.

 

There are 10 courses specifically provided for the Physical Science stream students by the government universities of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, there are some common courses also which can be followed by the physical science students.

1.     Engineering

Engineering is about designing processes and making products to solve real-world problems.

Part I (Years 1 and 2) provides a broad education in engineering fundamentals, enabling you to make a genuinely informed choice about the area in which to specialize from your third year (many students change direction as a result). Part II (Years 3 and 4) then provides in-depth training in your chosen professional discipline.

Qualification:

At least  three ‘S’  grades in Chemistry, Combined Mathematics and Physics at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination

Duration 4 Years

 

The following specializations are available within Engineering course:

§  Computer science Engineering

§  Aerospace and Aerothermal Engineering

§  Bioengineering

§  Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering

§  Electrical and Electronic Engineering

§  Electrical and Information Sciences

§  Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

§  Information and Computer Engineering

§  Instrumentation and Control

§  Mechanical Engineering

The Engineering courses are available in following Universities.

§  University of Moratuwa -

§  University of Peradeniya

§  University of Sri Jeyapura

§  University of Ruhuna

§  University of Jaffna

§  University of South-eastern

Fields of specialization available in each university are :

University of Peradeniya:  Civil Engineering  Chemical & Process Engineering  Computer Engineering  Electrical & Electronic Engineering  Mechanical Engineering  Manufacturing & Industrial Engineering

University of Moratuwa:  Biomedical Engineering  Electrical Engineering  Chemical & Process Engineering  Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering  Civil Engineering  Mechanical Engineering  Computer Science & Engineering  Materials Science & Engineering

University of Ruhuna:  Civil and Environmental Engineering  Electrical and Information Engineering  Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering  Marine Engineering & Naval Architecture

University of Jaffna:  Civil Engineering  Electrical and Electronic Engineering  Mechanical Engineering  Computer Engineering

South Eastern University of Sri Lanka:  Civil Engineering  Electrical Engineering #  Electronic Engineering #  Mechanical Engineering

#  For the time being Electrical Engineering and Electronic Engineering will be combined and offered as ‘Electrical & Electronic Engineering’.

University of Sri Jayewardenepura:  Civil Engineering  Computer Engineering  Electrical and Electronic Engineering  Mechanical Engineering

 

 

2.     Earth Resources Engineering

Earth Resources Engineers are involved in the widest range of specialties and

processes in extracting and processing minerals from the Earth economically and

environmentally responsible manner. This process includes exploration of

minerals, evaluation of the economics of mineral deposits, development of surface

and underground mine, excavation processes of roadways and tunnels, designing

ventilation systems, designing blast and excavation sequences, selecting

equipment, optimizing productivity and profit, managing personnel, designing

plant, ensuring safety and health, monitoring environmental characteristics, mine

closure and rehabilitation, processing mineral and metallurgical extraction of

material into the end product.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least three ‘S’  grades in Chemistry, Combined Mathematics and Physics at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination

 Available University : University of Moratuwa

 Duration : 04 years

 

 

3.     Textile Engineering

Textile engineering contains the principles, law and scientific techniques which are utilized for development and manufacturing the textile fabrics and all type of yarns. It also involves the study of principles of science that deals with the analysis of polymers involves in the formation of textile fiber.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least  three ‘S’  grades in Chemistry, Combined Mathematics and Physics at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination

 Available University : University of Moratuwa

 Duration : 04 years

 

4.     Physical Science

physical science is an entry-level science course predominantly taken by freshmen. This course is designed to introduce students to a variety of different sciences at a surface level. In this course, we cover scientific measurement, matter (chemistry), forces, energy, waves and technology, and earth and human impact. We adhere to the next-generation science standards (NGSS) for physical science. In this course, we focus on students applying their knowledge gained from their course work to construct/engineer projects that can demonstrate their knowledge of the concepts.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least ‘S’ grades in following three subjects at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination and the three subjects must include;

1. Combined Mathematics or Higher Mathematics and 2. Chemistry or Physics

And the third subject from the list given below;  Agricultural Science  Combined Mathematics  Biology

 Higher Mathematics  Chemistry  Physics

 Degree Programme : B.Sc. in Physical Science

 Available Universities : University of Colombo University of Peradeniya University of Sri Jayewardenepura University of Kelaniya University of Jaffna University of Ruhuna Eastern University, Sri Lanka South Eastern University of Sri Lanka

 

5.     Computer Science

The computer science can define as a branch of engineering science that studies the technology and the principles of design and applications of the computer system. The computer science is a interdisciplinary science and its scope includes study of computation, computer technology, hardware and software.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least a ‘C’ grade in Combined Mathematics or Physics or Higher Mathematics; and At least ‘S’ grades in two other subjects listed below at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination;

 Combined Mathematics  Higher Mathematics  Mathematics  Physics  Chemistry  Information & Communication Technology

 Degree Programme : B.Sc. in Computer Science

 Available Universities : University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC) University of Jaffna University of Ruhuna Trincomalee Campus of the Eastern University, Sri Lanka

 Duration : 03 years

 Medium : English

In addition, following universities/ institutes offer 04 year Honours degrees:

 BSc (Hons) in Computer Science Available Institute : University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC)

 BSc (Hons) in Software Engineering Available Institute : University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC)

 BSc (Hons) in Computer Science [BScHons (ComputerSc)] Available University : University of Kelaniya

 BSc (Hons) in Computer Science [BScHons (Computer Science)] Available University : University of Jaffna

 

6.     Applied Science (Physical Science)

The faculty offers the core science subjects i.e. Biology, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics I & II and the applied science subjects of Computer Science, Applied Statistics and Earth Science at all three levels. In addition, Compulsory, Auxiliary and Elective Courses are also offered.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least ‘S’ grades in following three subjects at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination and the three subjects must include;

1. Combined Mathematics or Higher Mathematics and 2. Chemistry or Physics

And the third subject from the list given below;

 Agricultural Science  Combined Mathematics  Biology  Higher Mathematics  Chemistry  Physics  Information & Communication Technology Details of the degree programs under Applied Sciences (Physical Science) in different universities are given below :

Rajarata University of Sri Lanka:

 B.Sc. (General) Degree in Applied Sciences Duration:  03 years

 B.Sc. Degree in Applied Sciences Duration:  04 years

 B.Sc. (Joint Major) Degree in Applied Sciences Duration: 04  years

Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka:

 B.Sc. (Applied Sciences) Special Degree in Chemical Technology  B.Sc. (Applied Sciences) Special Degree in Computer Science & Technology  B.Sc. (Applied Sciences) Special Degree in Applied Physics  B.Sc. (Applied Sciences) in Physical Sciences

University of Jaffna (Vavuniya Campus):

 B.Sc. (Applied Mathematics & Computing) Duration:  03 years

 B.Sc. (Computer Science) Special Duration:  04 years

Eastern University, Sri Lanka (Trincomalee Campus):

 B.Sc. in Applied Physics and Electronics (General)  B.Sc. in Applied Physics (Special)  B.Sc. in Electronics (Special)

Wayamba University of Sri Lanka:

 B.Sc. (General) Degree (English Medium,  03 years)  B.Sc. (Joint Major) Degree in Major 1 and Major 2 † (English Medium,  04 years)  B.Sc. (Special) Degree in Applied Electronics (English Medium,  04 years)  B.Sc. (Special) Degree in Industrial Management (English Medium,  04 years)  B.Sc. (Special) Degree in Mathematics with Statistics (English Medium,  04 years)

† Major 1 and Major 2 are two subjects from among the Computing & Information Systems, Electronics, Industrial Management, Mathematics & Mathematical Modeling and Statistics.

 

7.     Transport & Logistics Management

Transport and Logistics are two interrelated fields which offer good career opportunities for graduates. Logistics describes the management of activities associated with the planning and movement of materials, parts and finished goods across companies, together with the information flow that accompanies it.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least  three ‘S’  grades in Chemistry, Combined Mathematics and Physics at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination.

 Degree Programme : B.Sc. in Transport & Logistics Management

 Available University : University of  Moratuwa

 Duration : 04 years

 

8.     Industrial Statistics & Mathematical Finance

A degree in financial mathematics and statistics offers the challenge of combining the study of financial analysis and economic theory with probability and statistics. The skills obtained while pursuing this degree translate very well to professions in government, finance, marketing and even agriculture.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least ‘S’ grades in Combined Mathematics and any two subjects given below, at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination;

• Higher Mathematics • Physics • Chemistry

 Degree Programmes : B.Sc. (General  Degree) Duration : 03 years

B.Sc. (General  Degree) Duration : 04 years

B.Sc. Honours (Industrial Statistics) Duration : 04 years

B.Sc. Honours  (Mathematical Finance) Duration : 04 years

 Available University : University of  Colombo

 

9.     Statistics & operation research

Operational researchers use analytical methods to help organizations become more productive through better planning of strategy and delivery. Statistics is an important tool for operational researchers, because it involves decision-making in the face of uncertainty.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least ‘S’ grades in Combined Mathematics and two of the following subjects at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination;

• Biology • Chemistry • Physics • Agricultural Science • Mathematics • Higher Mathematics • Information & Communication Technology

 Degree Programme : Bachelor of Science Honours in Statistics and Operations Research

 Available University : University of Peradeniya

 Duration : 04 years

 

10.  Computing & Information System

This course, using both lecture and laboratory practice, introduces students to basic computer concepts in hardware, software, networking, computer security, programming, database, e-commerce, decision support systems, and other emerging technologies such as blogs, wiki, RSS, podcasting, and Google applications. Additional lectures examine social, legal, ethical issues including privacy, intellectual property, health concerns, green computing, and accessibility. Students learn techniques to search, evaluate, validate, and cite information found online. Widely used applications including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation, and web development software are studied.

Candidates are required to submit the duly certified copy of the original G.C.E (Ordinary Level) certificate along with the application for University Admission. Failure to submit it will result in rejection of the application for the course of study in Computing & Information Systems.

At least a ‘C’ grade in Combined Mathematics or Physics or Higher Mathematics and at least ‘S’ grades  for two of the following subjects at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination;

• Combined Mathematics • Physics • Higher Mathematics • Chemistry • Information & Communication Technology

In addition to that, at least a ‘C’ pass in English at the G.C.E. (Ordinary Level) Examination

 Degree Programme : B.Sc. Special (Computing & Information Systems)

 Available University : Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka

 Duration : 04 years

 

11.  Physical Science ICT

Information Communication Technology students gain knowledge and skills needed to effectively apply, use and manage technology when solving problems specifically related to information and communication. ICT majors may pursue one of two concentrations.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least ‘S’ grades in Combined Mathematics, Physics and Information and Communication Technology at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination.

Degree Programmes : BSc in Physics and Electronics Degree Programme and Universities University of Kelaniya

BSc in Physics and ICT Degree Programme [BSc (PICT)] University of  Sri Jayewardenepura

 Duration : 03 years

 

12.  Quantity Surveying

Quantity Surveying course teaches you to quantify construction work in a structured way using a standard method of measurement and industry terminology.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

Should have obtained a minimum of ‘S’ grade in at least one of the following subjects at the G.C.E.(Advanced Level) Examination;

 Combined Mathematics  Higher Mathematics

And other subject/subjects from the following list;

 Accounting  Economics  Business Statistics  Business Studies  Physics  Chemistry  Information & Communication Technology

In addition to that, candidates should have satisfied the following requirements at the G.C.E. (Ordinary Level) Examination;

(a)  At least a Credit Pass (C) in Mathematics (b)  At least an Ordinary Pass (S) in Science (c)  At least a Credit Pass (C)  in English Language

Degree Programme : BScHons (Quantity Surveying)

 Available University : University of Moratuwa

 Duration : 04 years

 

13.  Software Engineering

This course presents modern software engineering techniques and examines the software life-cycle, including software specification, design, implementation, testing and maintenance. The course evaluates past and current trends in software development practices including agile software development methods such as Extreme Programming (XP), Agile Modeling (AM), Scrum, ASD, DSDM, Crystal, Feature Driven Development (FDD), Incremental Funding Method (IFM), DevOps, and Site Reliability Engineering.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

A candidate should have obtained at least ‘S’ grades in Combined Mathematics, Physics and third subject from the following list at the G.C.E.(Advanced Level) Examination;

 Chemistry  Higher Mathematics  Information and Communication Technology

 Degree Programme : BSc Hons in Software Engineering Degree Programme

 Available Universities : University of Kelaniya Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka

 Duration : 04 years

 Medium : English

 

14.  Architecture

In this course we study the fundamental aspects that make up Architecture. Architecture is the science and art of the design and construction of buildings. In this course we study those fundamental aspects of Architecture with examples from a wide variety of architectural styles and historical periods. The course also serves as a doorway to the further study of the many styles and periods of human building design and construction activity and practice.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

A candidate should have obtained at least ‘S’ passes at the G.C.E.(A/L) Examination in;

(i)   At least one of the following subjects;  Art  Chemistry  Higher Mathematics  Biology  Combined Mathematics  Physics  Geography

(ii) And the other subject/subjects from the following list;  Accounting  Logic & Scientific Method  Hindu Civilization  Mathematics  Business Statistics  Sanskrit  Islamic Civilization  German  Greek & Roman Civilization  Information & Communication Technology  Political Science  Arabic  English  History  Sinhala  Business Studies  Communication & Media Studies Japanese  Christian Civilization  Economics  Hindi  Pali  Buddhist Civilization  French  Home Economics  Tamil  Chinese  Agricultural Science

Pass (C) in Mathematics at the G.C.E. (Ordinary Level) Examination.

In addition, candidates must fulfill the following requirements;

(a) At least an Ordinary Pass (S) in English at the G.C.E. (Ordinary Level) Examination (b) At least a Credit Pass (C) in Mathematics at the G.C.E. (Ordinary Level) Examination or a Ordinary Pass  (S) in Mathematics at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination (c) Passed the Aptitude Test, which will be held by the University of Moratuwa

 Degree Programme : Bachelor of Architecture

 Available University : University of Moratuwa

 Duration : 05 years

 

15.  Landscape

It is offered through the Department of Landscape Architecture in two venues: as an online only, and as an on-line and in-class hybrid course. The course is meant to instill an understanding of the profession of landscape architecture, a profession defined as an art and science of planning or designing on the land, arranging and creating spaces and objects in a landscape for human use. The course is open to all students.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

A candidate should have obtained at least ‘S’ passes at the G.C.E.(A/L) Examination in;

(i) At least one of the following subjects;

 Art  Geography  Biology  Higher Mathematics  Chemistry  Physics  Combined Mathematics  Agricultural Science

(ii) And the other subject/subjects from the following list;

 Accounting  Hindi  Arabic  Hindu Civilization  Buddhist Civilization  History  Business Statistics  Home Economics  Business Studies  Islamic Civilization  Chinese  Japanese  Greek & Roman Civilization  Logic & Scientific Method  Economics  Political Science  Mathematics  Pali  English  Sanskrit  French  Sinhala  German  Communication & Media Studies  Tamil  Information & Communication  Christian Civilization Technology

In addition, candidates must fulfill the following requirements;

(a) At least a Ordinary Pass (S) in English at the G.C.E. (Ordinary Level) Examination (b) At least a Credit Pass (C)  in  Mathematics  at the G.C.E. (Ordinary Level) Examination or a Ordinary Pass (S) in Mathematics at the G.C.E. (Advanced Level) Examination (c) Passed the Aptitude Test, which will be conducted by the University of Moratuwa

Degree Programme : Bachelor of Landscape Architecture

 University : University of Moratuwa

 Duration : 04 years

 

16.  Mineral Resources & Technology

This course provides an overview or introduction into the field of mineral beneficiation and comminution, systems and equipment used for the mineral processing industry. Fundamentals of basic separation and mineral beneficiation, environmental concerns, safety and terminology will be explored.

Minimum eligibility requirements for admission :

At least  ‘S’ grades for one of the following combinations of subjects at the G.C.E.(Advanced Level) Examination.

(1). Biology, Chemistry, Physics (2). Combined Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics

 Degree Programme : Bachelor of Science Honours in Mineral Resources and Technology [BScHons (MRT)]

 Available University : Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka

 Duration : 04 years

 Medium : English