The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies is one of the oldest departments of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. The founder of the University, Rev Walivitiye Sri Soratha Nayaka Thera, had the objective of making the University a center of learning on Buddhist Philosophy and Buddhist Civilization. The Department is proud to continue this tradition and provide opportunities for students to learn four major areas related to Buddhism: Pali Language, Buddhist Civilization, Buddhist Philosophy, Western Philosophy and Psychology. 

Pali
The University of Sri Jayewardenepura provides excellent opportunities to study Pali language. As almost all the Buddhist texts have been written in Pali Language (e.g., the Tripitaka, Tika and non-commentaries), the knowledge of Pali is essential for someone serious on learning Buddhism, Buddhist traditions, history of Sri Lanka and Archaeology.

Buddhist Civilization
In countries where Buddhism spread their own forms of economic, political and social philosophies as well as art forms have emerged. Interestingly, these art forms and social philosophies have co-evolved with the evolution of Buddhist philosophy. Buddhist Civilization examines the evolution of these social philosophies and Buddhism in many parts of the world, including India, Sri Lanka and the Far-East.

Buddhist Philosophy
Buddhist philosophy attempts to study Buddhist teachings as a system of philosophy, system of ethics, approach to Psychology, and a sociological discourse. In addition, the course covers the history of Buddhist Philosophy, which is essential to understand the present state of Buddhist Philosophy among world religions and philosophies. A departure of the course from other courses offered elsewhere is the emphasis it gives to Buddhist Philosophy and teachings as a way of solving social disputes.

Philosophy and Psychology
Psychology deals with the mental approach to problems that actually originated in Philosophy. Psychology has in recent time become a field of study that adds value to workers by increasing productivity through the improvement in mental capacity to face challenges faced by people today. This is also referred to as clinical Psychology which in Psychological counseling and related activities is given prominence. Logic cantered thinking capacity is developed through Philosophy, while Psychology helps people to attain mental strength. The course combines salient features of Philosophy and Psychology to develop personality and skills.