Nestled on a sprawling 60-acre campus in Homagama, NSBM Green University stands as a beacon of educational excellence and innovation. Established by the visionary Professor E. A. Weerasinghe, this institution is a proud national asset, offering a world-class educational experience that rivals global standards. At NSBM Green University, students can explore a wide range of academically rigorous programmes. From locally-approved undergraduate and postgraduate degrees to international collaborations with esteemed universities in the UK and Australia, the opportunities are both diverse and prestigious. Their offerings span across various disciplines, with the Faculty of Postgraduate Studies and Professional Advancement providing specialized programmes in Business and Computing.
One can elevate his/her career with the NSBM’s comprehensive suite of courses, including Certificates, Advanced Certificates, and Diplomas, all leading to advanced qualifications such as Postgraduate Diplomas, MBA, and PhD programmes. These qualifications, accredited by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Ministry of Higher Education, are designed to empower professionals across industries.
All the programmes offered by NSBM’s Faculty of Postgraduate Studies are tailored to accommodate the schedules of busy executives, government officials, and entrepreneurs, with weekend classes that ensure a balance between professional and academic commitments. Experience transformative learning in a cutting-edge environment led by renowned academics and industry experts, all committed to fostering sustainable growth and excellence in your professional journey.
Global CEO Magazine recently had a conversation with Dr Rasika Ranaweera, Dean of the Faculty of Postgraduate Studies & Professional Advancement, and Mr Lasitha De Silva, Head of Professional Advancement and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Professional Advancement, to discuss their MBA programme.
Q: What are the structural features and accreditation benefits of the NSBM MBA programme that make it an attractive option for candidates?
A: The NSBM MBA programme is the ideal choice for business professionals seeking to advance their careers in the ever-evolving business landscape while managing the demands of a busy schedule. We have designed this two-year, part-time programme not merely to be another MBA qualification, but to equip our candidates, who often are industry professionals, with the tools to remain competitive, relevant, and strategically positioned for success within their respective industries. Fully accredited by the University Grants Commission and aligned with the Sri Lanka Quality Framework (SLQF) Level 10, the NSBM MBA holds recognition both locally and internationally.
At the same time, our MBA features a flexible course structure with a weekend-based hybrid delivery mode of both in-person and online learning. This approach is specifically tailored to accommodate the unique challenges faced by MBA candidates with demanding schedules. Additionally, we provide robust student support through an efficient administrative process, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted academic journey.
Q: How does your MBA programme utilise industry partnerships and expert engagement to keep the curriculum relevant and offer customised learning opportunities for students?
A: Most importantly, we offer an ideal blend of industry experience and global exposure by involving a diverse group of locally and internationally renowned industry experts as visiting lecturers, alongside our core panel of NSBM academics with extensive experience in both local and international scholarly communities. Our programme also includes opportunities for students to visit international industrial sites, providing a well-rounded and contemporary learning experience of global business environments and practices. These visits such as to Australia and India are integral to understanding international market dynamics and fostering a global perspective on industry practices. Moreover, we conduct industry round table sessions that incorporate feedback and insights from key stakeholders and industry leaders for our curriculum to stay aligned with the evolving needs of the business world.
Additionally, we have a strong relationship with groups such as John Keells Holdings, with whom we have developed tailor-made programmes based on specific needs, particularly in tourism and hospitality management. We also collaborate with various organisations and business development structures across the country, providing staff development and training through these tailor-made programmes.
Q: How does your MBA programme integrate research opportunities, industry collaboration, and practical experiences to enhance the learning outcomes and professional development of its candidates?
A: Our Business Master’s Programmes are structured as MBS (one-year) and MBA (two-year) to cater to diverse professional needs and academic goals. The two-year structure of our MBA programme, the second year focuses extensively on research. This allows those interested to delve deeply into specific areas of interest, contributing original perspectives to the business community and enhancing the academic value of their degree. Hence, the programme puts a strong emphasis on students being engaged in applied research that can address real-world business challenges.
Apart from that, under the Faculty of Postgraduate Studies, we offer several research opportunities for our MBA candidates. For instance, we have a bi-annual Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, currently in its fourth volume, with two issues per year. We also annually host several research symposiums and conferences, including International Conference on Business Innovation (ICOBI), along with ICTAR and ICACT conferences where our MBA candidates can showcase their research. Beyond these, they have opportunities to publish in various other domestic and international conferences and journals.
Our MBA programme also includes two major tours; Domestic and International. The domestic tour focuses on Leadership Improvement Skills and business communication. This year, students will participate in a two-day programme at Cinnamon Bay, Beruwala, which is specifically designed to enhance their leadership and communication abilities. The international tour in the final year, includes a collaborative case study with international industry partners. This year, students will work with IIT Madras in India on a comprehensive case study, that will provide valuable industry insights and the opportunity to earn an IIT qualification, integrating academic knowledge with real-world business challenges.
Q: What makes your MBA programme distinct, and how does the NSBM brand contribute to its appeal and the overall student experience?**
A: The NSBM MBA programme stands out due to its integration of practical application with academic theory. NSBM itself serves as a compelling case study in modern education, showcasing a self-financed operating model that ensures sustainability across financial, operational, and environmental domains. I believe that working hand in hand with NSBM’s gold award winning team for business excellence has far more benefits for our MBA students on real-world applications of business management theories, enhancing their learning experience.
Further, the NSBM brand is a significant factor in our programme’s sought-after appeal. Currently, it is the fourth strongest brand in the country, supported by a robust structure of collaborations and partnerships. Despite our location outside Colombo, our brand’s strength attracts both partnerships and candidates who value the exceptional university environment and facilities we offer. Our campus features a unique library with extensive physical and digital resources, including EMERALD and Primo, and spans 26 acres with plans to expand to 60 acres.
Additionally, NSBM’s commitment to environmental sustainability sets us apart from other institutions. We not only claim to prioritise sustainability but have also demonstrated it through practical measures and achieved Green Building Certification. This dedication aligns with our core values and enhances the overall student experience, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to education.
All the prospective candidates are invited to contact us at 011 544 6036 / 070 544 5432 or pgd@nsbm.ac.lk for further information or assistance.
