Choosing the right educational path isn’t always easy. With so many programs, qualifications, and promises out there, how do you know what’s worth your time and money? You want something recognised, affordable, flexible, and most of allvaluable in the job market.Here’s the good news: That search doesn’t have to be difficult anymore. Because there’s one name you can always trust in education –The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL).
As one of Sri Lanka’s leading state universities, OUSL offers high-quality, flexible distance learning programs recognised across the country and abroad.
Among its wide range of academic offerings, one programmethat opens doors is the “Advanced Certificate in Human Resource Management (ACHRM)” offered by the Faculty of Management Studies.
What Is ACHRM? Who is it for?
This one-year programmeis perfect for two main types of learners:
= Those who want a strong foundation in Human Resource Management – maybe you’re new to HR, or want to upgrade your knowledge with a formal qualification.
= Those who have completed only O/Lsbut still dream of earning a university degree.
If you have just your G.C.E. Ordinary Level (O/L) qualificationswith six passes including Mathematics and First Language in one sitting, you can still achieve a recognised degree.By enrolling in the ACHRM, you gain a direct entry path to the Bachelor of Management Studies (Honours) degree programs at OUSL. There is no need for A/Ls and no selection test.
It’s a clear and proven route:
= O/L
= ACHRM
= BMS(Hons) degree programs.
Now, your dream of a university degree is possible even without A/Ls.
All you need is the first step. ACHRM is your gateway to a better future, whether you’re starting your career, changing directions, or coming back to education after a break. A Direct Pathway to a Degree – No Selection Test Required!
Here’s where it gets even better. Once you complete the ACHRM successfully, you’ll gain direct entry into one of the Bachelor of Management Studies (Honours) degrees at OUSL – without sitting for a selection test.
You can choose from:
= BMS (Hons) in Human Resource Management
= BMS (Hons) in Accounting and Finance
= BMS (Hons) in Marketing Management
= BMS (Hons)
That means within a few years, you can go from O/L qualified to earning a recognised degree from a state university.
What You’ll Learn?– Contemporary, Practical, Powerful
The curriculum is designed to give you exactly what you need to thrive in the modern HR world. You’ll study topics such as:
= Fundamentals of Human Resource Management
= Contemporary HRM Trends
= Decision-Making Tools for HRM
= Management for Human Resource Professionals
= Economic Trends for HRM
= Essential Soft Skills
= And a project to apply everything you’ve learned
It’s an exciting, up-to-date syllabus that combines theory, practical skills, and real-world application. You’ll complete the course not just with a certificate, but with confidence, competence, and clarity about your next career move.
Learning That Goes Beyond the Books
At the Faculty of Management Studies, we believe education is more than just passing exams. That’s why ACHRM includes out-of-classroom experiences to build your personality, leadership, and social responsibility.
Here’s what our students enjoy:
= CSR Projects – working in communities with children, elderly, and differently abled individuals across Sri Lanka
= Industry Visits – seeing how HR functions in real workplaces.
= Workshops – to build leadership, communication, and presentation skills
= Webinars – with industry experts to discuss trends, careers, and global HR practices
These experiences transform our students personally and professionally, and make them stand out in any career path they choose.
Flexible Learning in Your Own Language
We know life can be busy with jobs, family, travel, and more. That’s why ACHRM is designed with flexibility in mind. You’ll study through a distance learning model, supported by OUSL’s trusted teaching methods, online resources, and in-person sessions when needed.
And best of all you can study in the language you’re most comfortable in:
= English
= Sinhala
= Tamil
We believe language should never be a barrier to opportunity.
Even International Students Can Join
Are you living abroad? Or planning to move overseas? No problem. Even foreign students can register for ACHRM. We facilitate their examinations from abroad, ensuring uninterrupted learning no matter where you are. With our international-friendly system, your future can start from anywhere.
Where Will This Take You?
After completing ACHRM, your opportunities grow:
= Start working in HR – in roles such as HR Assistant, Recruiter, Payroll Clerk, or Admin Officer
= Pursue your degree – continue to BMS Hons programs with no selection test
= Strengthen your CV – whether you’re looking for your first job or planning a change
= Earn credibility – with a recognised qualification from a reputed state university
= Gain an extra qualification – ideal if you’re from a different field but wish to broaden your career options or switch to HR; the ACHRM offers a solid foundation in human resource management
HR is a fast-growing field both locally and globally. With ACHRM, you’ll be entering a career with increasing demand, diverse options, and leadership potential.
Entry Requirements
To enrol in the ACHRM program, you must be over 16 years old and meet any one of the following:
= Successful completion of Thirty (30) Credits at SLQF Level 1 and above or any Certificate course conducted by the Open University of Sri Lanka, or,
= Passed six subjects including Mathematics and First Language with at least two Credit passes of the General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level) Examination, Sri Lanka in one sitting, or
= Passed NVQF Level 3 in the relevant field, acceptable to the Senate of The Open University of Sri Lanka, or
= Any equivalent or higher qualification acceptable to the Senate of The Open University of Sri Lanka.
Course Fees & Payment
Total Fee: Rs. 39,100/= (Payable in Instalments)
Application Fee: Rs. 500/=
Can be paid via credit/debit card or in cash at any OUSL Regional or Study Centre.
Apply Online – Simple and Secure
Application Period: June 2, 2025 – August 1, 2025
Contact Us: 0703616177 / [email protected]
To apply, visit the Open University of Sri Lanka website, complete the form, pay the application fee, and you’re in!
Your Future Starts Now
Don’t let your dreams wait. Whether you’re aiming for your first job, a career upgrade, or your first degree – the ACHRM program at The Open University of Sri Lanka is the path forward.
With no A/Ls required, a recognised government qualification, affordable fees, and a direct route to a degree, this is more than just a certificate – it’s a life-changing opportunity.
Apply now. Be the change. Lead with purpose. Join ACHRM at OUSL – Where Education Meets Your Ambition.
By: Vinothra Rajendran
Lecturer
Chief Coordinator of ACHRM Programme Department of HRM Faculty of Management Studies
The Open University of Sri Lanka
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