Diploma in Pāli Language

Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies offers a comprehensive one-year Diploma Course in Pali Language, designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the language of early Buddhist texts. Pali, as the primary language of Theravada Buddhist scriptures, is essential for those seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy and teachings. This course is ideal for Buddhist practitioners, scholars, and anyone interested in studying the Buddha’s teachings in their original language. The curriculum covers an introduction to Pali, its historical significance, and its relationship with Sanskrit. Students will learn Pali grammar, including nouns, verbs, sentence structures, and cases, while building their vocabulary with essential Buddhist terms. The course also includes reading and translating passages from the Tipitaka, as well as chanting practice to develop proper recitation skills.

An overview of major Pali literature and commentaries is also provided. By the end of the course, students will have the ability to read and understand basic Pali texts, translate simple passages, and appreciate the nuances of Buddhist teachings. Teaching methods include interactive lectures, guided reading sessions, translation exercises, chanting practice, and group discussions. Assessments will consist of assignments, examinations, and oral recitation tests. This course is open to anyone interested, with no prior knowledge of Pali required, although familiarity with Buddhist concepts is beneficial.

nvq

Equivalent to National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) Level 5

slqf

Equivalent to Sri Lanka Qualification Framework (SLQF) Level 3

Entry requirements

Applicants must have a minimum of three (before 2000, four) Simple Passes (S) at the G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) examination in any stream or Having a pass for Prācīna Madhyama Examination Conducted by OSS or Academic qualifications equal to Sri Lankan G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) accepted by the senate of the institute.

Course outline

Module CodeModuleType
DPAL 114Formation of Pāli SentencesCompulsory
DPAL 124Pāli Grammar – ICompulsory
DPAL 134Pāli LiteratureCompulsory
DPAL 214Pāli Gammar – IICompulsory
DPAL 224Pāli Translations – (From Pāli to Sinhala or English)Compulsory
DPAL 234Pāli Translations – (From Sinhala or English to Pāli)Compulsory
DPAL 246Pāli WritingsCompulsory

Career opportunities

  • Academic roles (teaching and research)
  • Buddhist counselling
  • Translation of Buddhist texts
  • Meditation instruction
  • Interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange
  • Mental health support through Buddhist principles
  • Engagement in the global interest in Buddhist meditation and counselling

Duration: 1 Year (30 Credits)
Levels: SLQF Level 3 / NVQ Level 5
Medium of Instruction: Sinhala
Study mode: Online / On-site
Delivery: Weekdays / Weekend

Embark on a transformative journey with a Diploma in Pāli Language. Apply today to gain foundational knowledge.

Course Fee

The course fee is presently Rs. 30,000. This all-inclusive fee is charged to cover lectures, tutorials and examinations and access to computer laboratory facilities and library.

The fees should be credited to, Account No 0207 1000 0760 of the Sampath Bank in favour of Nāgānanda International Institute for Buddhist Studies, at the Sampath Bank Makola Branch or any branch of Sampath Bank. Normally, fees paid will not be refunded. However, requests for refund of fees may be considered if made before the expiry of one week from the date of commencement of lectures for each semester. Your attention to these details will help facilitate seamless financial transactions. If you have any questions or require further assistance regarding these bank details, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated team for guidance and support.

  • Account No 0207 1000 0760Sampath Bank - Makola Branch