TL;DR A psychology degree in Sri Lanka is available through a London Metropolitan University route at ESOFT Uni and an honours route at KIU University. ESOFT lists LKR 1,620,000 total tuition and asks for two A/L passes, while KIU asks for three A/L passes in any stream. Choose by counselling focus, duration and entry grades.
Many students finishing A/Ls want to understand people, but they are unsure whether psychology is a serious degree path in Sri Lanka or a loosely defined subject. It is a real route, and the programs listed on Uplift show how different the structures can be.
This guide compares the programs by stated criteria so you can judge fit. It uses the program records on Uplift, and every fee, duration and entry rule below comes from those records. For anything not listed, the guide says so rather than guessing. You can browse the full psychology study area at any time.
What is a psychology degree in Sri Lanka and what does it cover?
A psychology degree studies how people think, feel and behave. In practice the programs mix theory, research methods and applied skills such as counselling or psychological testing. The balance differs by program, which is why two degrees with the same name can lead to different early careers.
The general psychology pages group the degree-level programs. The clinical and counselling psychology pages cover shorter, practice-oriented options.
How does the ESOFT Uni psychology route work?
The BSc (Hons) in Psychology at ESOFT Uni is awarded by London Metropolitan University, UK, and taught at the ESOFT Metro Campus in Colombo. It runs for three years full-time. The first two years are an HND, and the final year is a top-up delivered in collaboration with the awarding university.
Counselling focus
The modules lean towards counselling practice: empathic communication, ethical frameworks in counselling, reflective practice and theoretical perspectives. The program record names CBT, psychodynamic, Gestalt and pluralistic approaches. In the final year, students study advanced clinical, forensic and health psychology.
Entry and fees
Direct entry asks for A/L qualifications or equivalent with a minimum of two passes. A relevant HND or foundation qualification can also be accepted. The record lists total tuition of LKR 1,620,000 and a registration fee of LKR 25,000, with monthly instalment plans that may be available under stated conditions.
How does the KIU University psychology route work?
The BSc Honours in Psychology at KIU University is a four-year full-time degree taught at KIU Colombo. The record describes it as UGC-recognised and approved by the Ministry of Higher Education.
Wider coverage and placements
The curriculum covers cognitive, developmental, abnormal and counselling psychology, plus neuroscience, psychological testing and a research dissertation. Students complete fieldwork and internships with hospitals, schools, NGOs and corporate organisations, according to the record.
Entry and fees
Applicants need a minimum of three passes at GCE A/L in any stream, or an equivalent international qualification, and a minimum pass in English at GCE O/L. The record does not list a tuition fee, so check the current figure on the program page before planning your budget. You can read more about the institute in the KIU University courses and entry rules guide.
Is there a shorter route into psychology and counselling?
Yes. The Diploma in Psychology and Counselling at KIU University is a twelve-month full-time program focused on practical counselling skills. Entry asks for GCE O/L with a simple pass in English and a GCE A/L completed in any stream. It suits students who want to test their interest, or professionals in education, healthcare or HR who want counselling skills. Our counselling course routes guide compares the wider options.
