Introduction

Business Economics was introduced as an area of specialization to the B.Sc. Business Administration Degree Programme at the Department of Business Administration in the year 1995. Owing to the unprecedented demand for this specialisation, it was subsequently developed into the BSc Honours in Business Administration in Business Economics degree programme in 2002. This four-year, fully fledged degree programme is offered by the Department of Business Economics of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, and is recognised as one of the pioneering degree programmes of its nature within the Sri Lankan university system. The degree programme is specifically designed to bridge the gap between economic theory and business practice. It aims to develop undergraduates in line with industry requirements by integrating analytical perspectives from both Economics and Management, thereby producing graduates equipped to respond effectively to real-world business and economic challenges. Successful completion of the programme provides undergraduates with a strong foundation in economic theory alongside essential managerial skills, enabling informed and effective decision-making within organisations. The Department also facilitates the development of students’ competencies in research, analytical thinking, communication, teamwork, and decision-making, contributing to their personal development as well as broader social and national progress. In addition to its undergraduate teaching mandate, the Department contributes to postgraduate education through programmes designed to enhance advanced knowledge, analytical skills, research competencies, and policy-oriented decision-making capabilities in the field of Business Economics. Currently, the department is staffed with one (1) Senior Professor (Chair) of Business Economics, six (6) Professors in Business Economics, six (6) Senior Lecturers, one (1) Confirmed Lecturer, four (4) Probationary Lecturers, and two (2) Temporary Assistant Lecturers.

Our Direction

Vision
“Prosper lives through learning”
Mission
We exist to Create and disseminate knowledge for the prosperity
Strategic Intention
“To contribute to society through the creation of citizens excelled in the fields of Management and Economics, who would in turn become outstanding Managers, Economists, Scholars and Policymakers.”
Our Values

We direct the students to align with the values of the university.

Universal loving kindness and compassion

We let our thoughts of boundless love and compassion pervade the whole world among all living beings without any obstruction, hatred and enmity and ensure fairness.

Preserving national heritage

We protect and promote indigenous knowledge and practices, while preserving and nurturing national heritage we protect and promote cultural identity and values.

Freedom of intellectual thought and creativity

We value a university environment where there is academic freedom, creativity, innovation, critical inquiry and intellectual discourse.

Performance excellence

We maintain a continuous improvement in our academic standing, productivity and the public image through creation and dissemination of knowledge of the highest quality.

Accountability and social responsibility

We hold responsibility for sustainable utilisation of resources while achieving performance excellence to uplift the lives of the Sri Lankan population.

Undergraduate Programme
The BSc Honours in Business Administration in Business Economics degree programme offers structured specialisation pathways that enable undergraduates to develop focused expertise. These specialisation areas are designed to align with industry demands, policy priorities, and emerging global trends, while strengthening the analytical and applied competencies of graduates.

The following specialisation areas are offered within the degree programme:
Banking
Provides knowledge on financial institutions, commercial banking, central banking, financial markets, monetary policy analysis, and risk management, preparing students for careers in the banking and financial services sector.
Development Studies
Provides knowledge on economic development, policy analysis, development research, evaluation, and sustainability, preparing students for careers in development institutions, policy-making bodies, and international organisations.
International Economics and Business
Provides knowledge on international trade, international finance, global business operations, economic integration, and logistics, preparing students for careers in international business, trade, finance, and global supply chain sectors.
Data Science for Economics
Provides knowledge on data analytics, econometrics, programming, data visualisation, and big data applications, preparing students for careers in data-driven decision-making roles across finance, consulting, research, and technology sectors.
The programme also includes a compulsory six-month internship training component in the final year and a six-credit Independent Study in Business Economics, enabling students to develop practical exposure, applied research capabilities, and evidence-based decision-making skills.
Postgraduate Programmes
The Department of Business Economics offers postgraduate programmes designed to serve graduates, professionals, researchers, and public and private sector employees who seek advanced knowledge and competencies in Business Economics, policy analysis, applied research, and managerial decision-making.
Master of Philosophy in Business Economics

MPhil (BEc)

A two-year research-oriented programme equivalent to SLQF Level 11, focusing on the development of high-level independent research outcomes in Business Economics. The programme also offers a pathway for candidates to upgrade to a PhD offered through the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce as well

View Programme
Master of Science in Business Economics

MSc (BEc)

A two-year Master’s degree programme equivalent to SLQF Level 10, designed to strengthen theoretical knowledge, practical application, analytical skills, and research competencies.

The MSc in Business Economics offers two main options to accommodate the academic and professional requirements of students.
Option A: Specialisation Programme
Designed for students who wish to develop expertise in a selected area of economics and pursue academic, research, policy, or international careers.

The specialisation areas available under Option A include:
Development Studies

Focuses on development processes, development challenges, policy analysis, and evaluation.

Policy Analysis

Develops skills in evaluating economic policies, projects, and programmes using quantitative and econometric methods.

Women’s Studies

Examines gender-related issues in economic and social contexts, with emphasis on development, society, and workplace concerns.

Banking

Covers bank management, central banking, monetary policy, financial systems, and banking sector analysis.

Health Economics

Focuses on health systems, health policy, health care financing, resource allocation, and programme evaluation.

Option B: General Programme

Designed mainly for students employed in the public and private sectors, with emphasis on the practical application of economic knowledge.

View Programme
Master of Business Economics

MBEc

A one-year degree programme equivalent to SLQF Level 9, designed for private and public sector employees seeking to enhance critical thinking and strategic decision-making abilities.

View Programme
The postgraduate programmes aim to enhance economics and managerial skills necessary to address the challenges of an increasingly complex business and policy environment. They also support candidates in developing research capabilities, policy formulation skills, governance awareness, and the ability to apply economic knowledge to practical organisational and public sector contexts.
Student Experience
BIZCON
The Business Economics Students’ Association (BIZCON), established in 2007, promotes constructive engagement among students and academic staff in support of the objectives of the Department of Business Economics. Some of the calendar events organised by BIZCON are;
EconInsight
EconInsight is a flagship annual outreach initiative supporting G.C.E. Advanced Level Economics students through structured seminar series.
Ikonomica
A public engagement initiative aimed at making economic knowledge more accessible in a clear and practical manner.
Department Welcome
An annual welcome and orientation programme conducted to support new undergraduates in their transition.
BIZCON Avurudu
An annual cultural celebration promoting unity, engagement, and community spirit among students.
Department Initiatives
The Department actively organises academic, professional, and outreach initiatives that strengthen industry engagement, entrepreneurship, and student development.
J’Pura Expo
A platform supporting SMEs to strengthen capabilities and expand into global markets through industry engagement.
HeartStrings
An English language and creative expression programme encouraging student participation and talent development.
Personal and Professional Development Programme
A programme focused on enhancing essential skills, competencies, and career readiness of students.
English Language Programme
A structured programme designed to enhance academic and professional communication skills progressively.
Research and Academic Engagement

The Department contributes actively to academic research dissemination through its journal publication and annual research conference, providing platforms for scholars, students, and professionals to share research and advance knowledge in Business Economics and related disciplines.

Sri Lanka Journal of Business Economics (SLJBE)

A peer-reviewed journal published annually by the Department, serving as a platform for advancing knowledge in Business Economics and related disciplines.

Annual Conference on Business Economics (ACBE)

An annual academic conference organised by the Department, providing opportunities to present and showcase research to a wider academic and professional audience.

Membership in the Sri Lanka Forum of University Economists (SLFUE)

The Department obtained membership of the Sri Lanka Forum of University Economists (SLFUE), a network of all Departments and Units of Economics within the Sri Lankan state university system, in 2012.

Visit SLFUE Website
Top Stories

Navigate Sri Lanka 2026 – Industry Forum

Posted: May 7, 2026

Navigate Sri Lanka 2026, the annual industry forum organised by the final-year undergraduates of the Department of Business Economics, was successfully held virtually on 31 March 2026 under the theme “Navigating Global Trade and Foreign Exchange in an Era of Climate Resilience.”

ECONWIZ’26 – Department welcome for new students

Posted: May 6, 2026

ECONWIZ’ 26, organised by the Business Economics Students’ Association (BIZCON), was successfully held on 11 February 2026 to welcome the newly enrolled second-year undergraduates to the Department.

International Workshop on “Health Economic Analysis for Evidence-Driven Health Policies”

Posted: April 26, 2026

The special international workshop on “Health Economic Analysis for Evidence-Driven Health Policies” organised by the Department of Business Economics, FMSC, USJ in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, Sri Lanka and the World Bank Group, was held at the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura on 3rd and 4th March 2026.

Introductory Workshop on the Environmentally Extended Multiregional Input-Output (EE-MRIOT) Framework

Posted: April 1, 2026

Advancing Climate-Economic Research: Two-Stage Workshop Series on Input–Output Analysis and Post-Disaster Impacts

7th Annual Conference on Business Economics (ACBE) 2026

Posted: February 24, 2026

The Department of Business Economics successfully conducted the 7th Annual Conference on Business Economics (ACBE) 2026 on 16 February 2026 as part of the 22nd International Conference on Business Management (ICBM), FMSC.

Celebrating Outstanding Student Athletes

Posted: February 16, 2026

Several undergraduates were recognised at the 49th Colours Awarding Ceremony of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura for outstanding achievements in sports, receiving Colours and Merit Awards across multiple disciplines.

Ikonomica | Investing in the Colombo Stock Exchange

Posted: February 14, 2026

The Business Economics Students’ Association proudly presents “How to Become an Investor in the CSE” a, comprehensive video series designed to guide beginners and aspiring investors step-by-step through the Sri Lankan stock market.

𝐁𝐈𝐙𝐂𝐎𝐍 – 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 (𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔)

Posted: February 14, 2026

The 20th Annual General Meeting of BIZCON, the Business Economics Students’ Association of the Department of Business Economics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, was successfully held on 14th January 2026 at E111 LH. The event marked the official transition of leadership from the outgoing Executive Committee to the newly appointed Board of Officials for the term […]

Guest Lecture on “Dollar as a Global Reserve Currency and the Threat from Gold and Cryptocurrencies”

Posted: January 31, 2026

The Department of Business Economics, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce (FMSC), University of Sri Jayewardenepura, successfully hosted a guest lecture under the course BEC 3372: International Economic Relations on Tuesday, 27th January 2026, from 5.00 PM onwards, at the New Faculty Board Room, FMSC. The session featured Dr. W. A. Wijewardena, Former Deputy Governor […]

New Study Proposes Robust Framework to Measure Sri Lanka’s Digital Economy

Posted: January 29, 2026

New Study Proposes Robust Framework to Measure Sri Lanka’s Digital Economy A new peer-reviewed research study titled “Capturing the Digital Economy Measurement Framework for Sri Lanka: Assessing Key Indicators, Trends, and Policy Implications” presents one of the most comprehensive attempts to quantify Sri Lanka’s digital economy using an internationally aligned analytical framework. Authored by Prof […]

National Recognition: GCF Team Grant 2025-26 Awarded to Transport Research Initiative

Posted: January 20, 2026

In a remarkable achievement for transport economics research in Sri Lanka, the Gamani Corea Foundation (GCF) has awarded its prestigious Team Grant for 2025-26 to a distinguished research team led by Prof. M. A. K. Sriyalatha, alongside Dr. Priyantha Lalanie and Dr. M.P.K. Withanawasam. The award was conferred under the GCF Research Awards 2025/2026, marking […]

BEC 3180: Personal and Professional Development : From Classroom to Career: Inspiring Lessons from Alumni

Posted: January 18, 2026

The Department of Business Economics of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, successfully organized a guest lecture under the course BEC 3180: Personal and Professional Development on 01 January 2026. The session, titled “From Classroom to Career: Inspiring Lessons from Alumni,” was designed to bridge the gap between academic learning […]

A Journey of Excellence in Business Economics: An Experience-Sharing by Dilini Peiris

Posted: December 15, 2025

Ms. Dilini Peiris, a graduate of the Department of Business Economics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, was awarded the Venerable Prof. (Dr.) Walpola Sri Rahula Maha Thera Memorial Gold Medal for being the Most Outstanding Student of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce at the 51st Convocation of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.

Business Economics Undergraduates Shine at the 20th South Asian Economics Students’ Meet in Nepal

Posted: December 11, 2025

The 20th South Asian Economics Students’ Meet (SAESM 2025), held in Kathmandu, Nepal from 15 to 20 November 2025 under the theme “Addressing Risks and Vulnerabilities in South Asia and the Path to Economic Resilience,” brought together 60 emerging economists from across the region. We are proud to announce that three students from the Department […]

Young Business Economists shine at J’pura Employability Skills Awards 2025

Posted: December 11, 2025

We are delighted to share that our students and flagship student initiative, EconInsight, earned top recognition at the J’PURA Employability Skills Awards 2025, bringing pride to the Department of Business Economics. We are proud to announce that Pawanya Balasooriya, a final-year undergraduate of the Department of Business Economics, has been awarded the Best Employability Skills […]

Foreign Study Tour of Master’s Degree Students

Posted: December 8, 2025

The Postgraduate Center for Business Studies successfully organized a foreign study tour to China for the Master of Business Economics and M.Sc. in Business Economics students from 24th to 30th November 2025. A key highlight of the tour was the academic engagement with Zhejiang Shuren University, where the delegation received a warm welcome from the […]

J’PURA EXPO 2025

Posted: December 3, 2025

J’PURA EXPO 2025, organized for the fourth consecutive year by the Department of Business Economics, Faculty of Management Studies & Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, concluded successfully, marking another milestone in fostering Sri Lanka’s export competitiveness and SME development. This year’s Expo featured eight sub-projects, each designed to uplift small businesses, strengthen tourism potential, encourage  […]

Prof. Ananda Rathnayake assumes Duties as the New Head of the Department of Business Economics

Posted: December 2, 2025

Prof. Ananda Rathnayake assumed duties as the new Head of the Department on December 1, 2025. He holds a Doctorate in Economics from the University of Colombo, with a specialisation in the technical and allocative efficiency of paddy farming in Sri Lanka. His research interests span agricultural economics, poverty alleviation, and macroeconomic policy analysis. Prof. […]