The Ocean University of Sri Lanka (OCUL) was established in 2014 by parliament Act No. 31 04 2014 by repealing the National Institute of Fisheries and Nautical Engineering Act, No. of 1999 with an aim of developing the manpower requirement to achieve the economic benefits of Marine, Maritime, Fisheries and allied sectors. Ocean University unlike other conventional universities in the island is conducting courses both Undergraduate and Vocational level, directly related to the above mentioned sectors. The two academic pathways have been designed to cater the requirement of highly specialized human resources both in academic and skilled sectors with an aim of expanding the Ocean Economy.

OCUSL is headquartered in Colombo with eight Regional Colleges located in Jaffna, Trincomalee, Baticaloa, Tangalle, Galle, Mattakkuliya Kalutara and Negombo  The University is conducting undergraduate programs in  Colombo and Tangalle whilst Voccational level diploma and certificate programs  are conducted at Regional Colleges including the college in Mattakkuliya.

The government of Sri Lanka has recognized the importance of the blue economy especially in the areas of Fisheries, Aquaculture development & value additions, Marine Engineering, Port & shipping, while maintaining a sustainable environment. To achieve the targets of National Economic Development Strategies, the contribution of man power production of Ocean University is significant.