TL;DR: You can earn a degree in Sri Lanka without leaving your job. Part-time, hybrid and online formats are listed for top-up degrees, MBAs, specialist master's programs and short certificates. Check the study mode on each page, because it changes how many hours you need each week.
Many working adults want a qualification but cannot give up a salary to study. The good news is that several local programs are built for people who work. The harder part is knowing which ones, and what each asks of your week.
This guide uses the study mode field on each Uplift program page to sort the options for working students.
Know the three formats
Part-time programs run in the evenings or at weekends. Hybrid programs mix classroom sessions with online study. Online programs run entirely on a screen. Full-time study usually means weekday classes, so it rarely fits a standard job.
The format is listed on every program page. Read it before you read anything else.
Top-up degrees for diploma holders
A top-up is a one-year final stage for students who already hold an HND, a diploma or an equivalent qualification. ESOFT Uni lists several as part-time programs awarded by London Metropolitan University (UK).
BSc (Hons) in Nursing top-up lists LKR 690,000 in total tuition and is for registered nurses with a recognised nursing diploma.
BA (Hons) in Education top-up lists LKR 750,000 in total tuition. Experience in teaching or community education is welcomed.
BA (Hons) in Fashion top-up lists LKR 950,000 in total tuition and usually needs a portfolio.
BEng (Hons) in Biomedical Engineering top-up lists LKR 850,000 in total tuition.
Our top-up degree guide explains how to move from an HND to a degree.
Master's programs for professionals
Postgraduate programs often expect work experience, so they suit people already in a career.
MBA in Human Resources at ESOFT Uni is part-time and lists LKR 790,000 in total tuition. It asks for a relevant degree and typically two or more years of experience.
MSc in Renewable Energy Engineering at ESOFT Uni is part-time, awarded by Kingston University (UK), and lists LKR 840,000 in total tuition.
MBA in Management Strategy at KIU University runs for two years in a hybrid format.
ESOFT Uni also lists hybrid Kingston MSc programs in computing fields. Compare them in our master's degree guide and the MBA guide.
HNDs and short courses online
If you do not hold a diploma yet, Colombo International Campus lists HNDs in business and computing in a hybrid format, each running for about 18 months. KIU University lists two online certificates: a Certificate Course in HR Analytics that runs for eight weeks, and a Certificate in Digital Business Developer that runs for three months and needs no prior academic qualification. See the certificate courses guide for the wider picture.
Plan your week before you apply
Study hours depend on the program, but a part-time degree still needs steady weekly time for classes, reading and assignments. Check the schedule, tell your employer early and plan for the busiest weeks at work.
