Department of Textile and Apparel Technology of the Open University of Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of programmes and courses in the fields of textiles and apparel, from Certificate to the Postgraduate levels. The Department of Textile and Apparel Technology offers programmes in three specialised areas: Textile Engineering, Textile Manufacture, and Apparel Production and Management. The Certificate in Industrial Studies offers two specialisations: Textile Technology, and Apparel Technology. Diploma in Industrial Studies and Bachelor of Industrial Studies are also offered under two specialisations: Textile Manufacture, and Apparel Production & Management. Diploma in Technology and Bachelor of Technology (Engineering) are offered in the specilaisation of Textile Engineering. Postgraduate Research degrees leading to master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy are also available.

What skills does a student of apparel require to step out into this challenging World?

In the current context a student pursuing his career in apparel would require, in addition to the sound technical background on apparel production, skills relevant to business communication, marketing, design and international trade.

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What is your view on this?

My view about online degrees is that a very carefully designed online degree programme is equally worthwhile as traditional degrees. The main reason why this debate arises is probably due to two reasons: Firstly, in most instances the online programmes are not carefully designed and secondly the students have to be dedicated and motivated to spend enough time (as suggested by the tutor) for their studies. However, my experience with distance teaching has been that the students do not spent the recommended amount of time (credit hours) for successful completion of the courses and programmes. If both the teacher and the student play their role as it ought to be played, I believe there is no difference between whether the degree is offered on campus or off campus.