Graduateship in Chemistry (GIC)
A four-year professional qualification designed to build strong knowledge in Chemistry, practical laboratory skills and industry-oriented expertise.
For nearly fifty years, the Institute has been acclaimed for its Graduateship Programme in Chemistry (GIC), a four-year professional qualification.
Build a Strong Foundation. Develop Professional Expertise.
A comprehensive Chemistry programme combining fundamental knowledge, practical experience, industry-oriented learning and research opportunities.
A Comprehensive Chemistry Qualification
The total number of credits that need to be covered at the end of four years is 120. During the first two years, students complete 49 credits, while the remaining 71 credits are completed during the third and fourth years.
Fundamental and intermediate course units cover Organic, Physical, Inorganic, Analytical and Biochemistry.
Supporting subjects such as Mathematics, Biology, Physics, Electronics and Statistics provide a broad base for more advanced Chemistry studies.
During the third and fourth years, students can select from industry-based optional subjects and research-oriented courses. Laboratory experience is provided during the first three years.
Senior students may choose either a research project or internship, based on the applicable GPA requirements.
Chemistry with a Professional Focus
Develop scientific knowledge, practical competence and industry-oriented skills.
Strong Chemistry Foundation
Develop knowledge across Organic, Physical, Inorganic, Analytical Chemistry and Biochemistry.
Hands-on Laboratory Experience
Gain practical laboratory experience through laboratory components during the first three years.
Industry-Oriented Learning
Choose from a range of industry-based optional topics designed to support practical application.
Research Opportunities
Develop research methodologies, scientific thinking and analytical problem-solving skills.
Professional Qualification
A long-established professional qualification designed for Chemistry and related fields.
Further Study
Build a strong foundation for postgraduate education and further academic development.
From Fundamentals to Professional Expertise
A structured progression through fundamental, intermediate and advanced Chemistry.
Year One
Build fundamental knowledge in Chemistry and supporting scientific disciplines.
Year Two
Develop intermediate Chemistry knowledge and strengthen practical laboratory skills.
Year Three
Progress into advanced Chemistry and industry-oriented optional subjects.
Year Four
Complete advanced studies and undertake a research project or internship where applicable.
Practical Experience & Research
Develop the ability to apply Chemistry knowledge through laboratory work, research and professional exposure.
Laboratory Experience
Students receive hands-on laboratory experience during the first three years of the programme.
- Practical Chemistry
- Laboratory techniques
- Analytical and experimental skills
- Application of theoretical knowledge
Research or Internship
Senior students may choose a research project or internship based on the applicable GPA requirements.
- Research methodologies
- Scientific problem solving
- Professional exposure
- Development of rational thinking
A Qualification with Established Recognition
The GIC has a long history of recognition in Sri Lanka and international accreditation.
Government Recognition
In 1986, the GIC programme of the College of Chemical Sciences was accepted by the Government of Sri Lanka as an alternative qualification to a Degree in Science, with Chemistry as a subject, awarded by a recognised university for employment purposes.
University Grants Commission
The UGC officially stated in 1996 that the Graduateship Qualification awarded by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon can satisfy the basic requirements for registration for a postgraduate programme in Chemistry leading to a Diploma or Degree.
Professional Progression
Successful completion of the GIC examination is considered as fulfilling the requirement for admission as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon.
Long-Established Qualification
The Graduateship Programme in Chemistry has been offered by the Institute for nearly fifty years.
Royal Society of Chemistry Accreditation
The GIC Programme was formally accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), UK, in 2012 as a four-year BSc. It was the first course in South Asia and the second in the Asian region to receive RSC accreditation.
A Flexible Professional Pathway
The GIC Programme provides opportunities for individuals from different educational and professional backgrounds.
It is particularly suitable for those working in chemical industries who wish to strengthen their qualifications and knowledge.
Where Can GIC Take You?
GIC graduates have opportunities in industry, academia, education and further study.
Transfer Opportunities
Students may have opportunities to continue their studies through the Institute's affiliate university pathways.
Northumbria University, UK
A student transferring after two years may complete an additional year of study to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, subject to the applicable arrangement.
University of Cincinnati, USA
Students following the applicable transfer pathway can continue their studies towards a Bachelor of Science with a major in Chemistry.
Truman State University, USA
A similar qualification pathway is available through the relevant transfer arrangement.
Entry Qualifications
Applicants may qualify through several recognised entry routes.
GCE Advanced Level
Three passes in Science subjects, including Chemistry, through any of the following:
- GCE A/L — Sri Lanka
- GCE A/L — Pearson Edexcel (UK)
- International A/L — Pearson Edexcel (UK)
- GCE A/L — Cambridge International (UK)
Alternative Entry Routes
- Successful completion of the Institute's Diploma in Laboratory Technology
- Completion of a foundation course in science subjects offered by OUSL
- Other criteria approved by the Institute's Council
Graduates who have obtained a general degree (SLQF Level 5) from a state university with sufficient Chemistry-based courses may be considered for direct admission to Level 3, subject to Academic Board approval and applicable terms and conditions.
How to Apply
Applications are now open for the November 2026 Intake.
Check Your Eligibility
Review the entry requirements before applying.
Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your results and required supporting documents.
Apply Online
Submit your application through the IChemC MIS.
Complete Registration
Follow the registration instructions and submit the required documents.
Downloads & Important Documents
Access the documents and information required for prospective GIC students.
The current programme documents will remain available here until updated versions are issued.
Start Your Journey in Chemistry
Applications are now open for the November 2026 Intake of the Graduateship in Chemistry (GIC).
For inquiries: (+94) 11 2863681 | (+94) 11 2861653 | (+94) 11 2861231 • od@ichemc.edu.lk