Chemistry is a rapidly growing discipline bringing new discoveries theories, and scientific applications that ultimately benefit society. It is necessary for practicing chemists to be proficient in a wide range of chemical disciplines in order to address the important problems that lie at the interface of chemistry and closely related disciplines.

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura offers courses that incorporate the most recent advances in the discipline and provide students with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of chemistry and a choice of more specialized optional courses which cover a wide range of topics to suit their future goals. Academic programs in chemistry are designed to meet the needs of the country and make the students prepared to seek employment with confidence.

Since 2004, the department of Chemistry offers the subject of Polymer Science and Technology also as a subject for the general degree. The course consists of course work, practical classes and a research component geared towards training Polymer Scientists/Technologists, Quality Control Officers, Plant Managers, etc. needed for industries dealing with plastic and rubber products.

The vision of the department is to contribute to national development, scientific advancement and professional development by providing up to date training and opportunities to students to become efficient and successful professionals.