Diploma in Laboratory Technology
Build practical laboratory skills, scientific knowledge and industry-ready technical expertise for a rewarding career in laboratory technology.
Practical skills for the laboratory
The Diploma in Laboratory Technology (DLT) is a two-year programme offered by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, designed to develop middle-level technical expertise in Chemical Analysis and Research.
Students develop a strong foundation in Chemistry and related sciences before progressing into specialised laboratory and industry-oriented learning.
The programme places strong emphasis on practical laboratory experience, allowing students to connect scientific theory with real laboratory practice.
The programme began as the Laboratory Technicians' Certificate Course in Chemistry (LTCC) in 1973. It was subsequently upgraded to a Diploma programme and became the Diploma in Laboratory Technology (DLT).
The current programme covers 60 credits.
From Chemistry fundamentals to laboratory practice
The programme develops knowledge and practical competencies progressively over two years.
Year 01 – General Modules
Students build a foundation in Chemistry and related sciences together with essential laboratory and supporting skills.
Modules include General, Organic, Inorganic, Physical and Analytical Chemistry, Biological Chemistry, Laboratory Practice, Electronics, Mathematics, Statistics, Information Technology and Management.
Year 02 – Specialisation
Students progress into a specialised pathway aligned with their intended career direction.
The programme offers Food and Material Technology (FMT) and Clinical Laboratory Technology (CLT).
Laboratory Practice
Hands-on laboratory work is integrated into the programme, covering the practical application of scientific concepts and laboratory techniques.
Professional Training
Students complete a six-month internship in a relevant industry or medical laboratory according to the selected pathway.
Two pathways. Different career directions.
During the second year, students can focus on the area that best matches their professional interests.
Food & Material Technology
Designed for students interested in industrial and laboratory applications across food, materials and related industries.
- Food Science and Food Processing
- Food Microbiology and Food Analysis
- Polymer Science and Petroleum
- Industrial Chemistry
- Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Technology
- Chemical Engineering fundamentals
- Quality Assurance and Accreditation
Clinical Laboratory Technology
Designed for students interested in clinical and medical laboratory environments.
- Introduction to Medical Laboratory
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Diagnostic Microbiology
- Diagnostic Parasitology
- Clinical Haematology
- Toxicology and Molecular Diagnostics
- Histopathology and Cytology
A broad laboratory science foundation
Develop scientific knowledge together with practical and supporting skills needed in modern laboratories.
Analytical Chemistry
Develop knowledge and skills relevant to chemical analysis and laboratory measurement.
Chemistry
Study fundamental Organic, Inorganic and Physical Chemistry concepts.
Biological Chemistry
Build knowledge of biological systems and chemistry relevant to laboratory applications.
Laboratory Practice
Gain hands-on experience with laboratory techniques, chemicals, glassware and equipment.
Quality & Accreditation
Understand the importance of quality assurance and accreditation in laboratories and industry.
Supporting Skills
Mathematics, Statistics, Electronics, Information Technology and Management complement the scientific training.
Six-month internship training
Practical experience continues beyond the classroom. Students undergo six-month internship training in a relevant environment according to their selected pathway.
Entry Qualifications
Applicants should meet the current entry requirements specified by the Institute.
Please refer to the latest DLT prospectus before applying.
- Passed six subjects in one sitting at the G.C.E. Ordinary Level examination.
- Credit (C) passes for Mathematics and Science at the G.C.E. Ordinary Level examination.
- Passed English Language in not more than two sittings.
- Equivalent qualifications may be considered subject to the applicable conditions of the Institute.
A qualification backed by professional recognition
The DLT programme is recognized by the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission to offer NVQ Level 4 & 5 qualifications.
The programme is offered by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, the professional body for chemists in Sri Lanka.
DLT graduates can pursue technical opportunities across public and private sector laboratories and related industries.
Is Laboratory Technology right for you?
School Leavers
An opportunity to pursue a technically oriented career in laboratories and related industries.
Working Technicians
Strengthen existing knowledge and practical skills while continuing professional development.
Working Students
Weekend classes provide flexibility for those who are already working or pursuing other commitments.
Take your laboratory skills into the workplace
DLT prepares students for technical roles across laboratories, industries and related organizations.
DLT can be your pathway to GIC
Successful DLT graduates can progress to the Graduateship in Chemistry (GIC) programme, subject to the applicable conditions of the Institute.
DLT can therefore provide a valuable pathway for students who wish to progress from technical laboratory training towards a professional qualification in Chemistry.
Practical. Professional. Career-focused.
Strong Practical Focus
Practical laboratory work is an important part of the programme.
Two-Year Programme
Gain a focused technical qualification within approximately two years.
Weekend Classes
Classes are conducted during the weekend, making the programme suitable for working students.
Industry-Relevant Training
The curriculum connects Chemistry and laboratory skills with real workplace needs.
Professional Recognition
The programme is offered by IChemC and carries TVEC recognition for NVQ Level 4 & 5.
Further Study Pathways
Graduates can progress towards further professional and academic opportunities.
Designed around your week
Academic sessions are conducted during the weekend.
Saturday & Sunday
Weekend academic sessions
Payment Plans
View the current payment-plan document for the available options and applicable conditions.
Current Payment Plan
Multiple payment plans are available for the current DLT intake.
View Payment Plan ↗Bank Voucher
Download the official DLT bank voucher for the current intake.
Download Bank Voucher ↗Applications Now Open
Take the next step towards a career in laboratory technology. Apply online through the IChemC Management Information System.
Downloads & Information
Important documents for prospective DLT students.
Build the skills. Gain the experience.
Start your journey towards a career in laboratory technology with the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon.
Apply Now →