The establishment of the University of Ceylon in 1942 under the Ceylon University Ordinance marked a landmark moment. Ivor Jennings, appointed as its first Vice-Chancellor, played a transformative role by promoting academic excellence and recruiting distinguished scholars from the United Kingdom. Among them was Elsie Cook, whose pragmatic perspective and passion for geography greatly influenced the institution.

Appointed as a lecturer in 1942, Elsie Cook emphasized a practical and empirical approach, focusing on local geographical understanding as a means to foster responsible citizenship. Her vision and dedication significantly contributed to the establishment and growth of geography education in Sri Lanka. Together with Jennings and other academics, she helped build a robust academic community committed to liberal ideals and national development.

Despite facing initial challenges related to staffing and limited student enrollment, the department attracted prominent scholars such as Bertram Hughes Farmer, who conducted influential research on Sri Lanka's physical geography. Cook also played a crucial role in advocating for dedicated space and resources for the department, underscoring the importance of Geography in the academic sphere.

Over time, the department expanded its focus to include diverse fields such as climatology, urban geography, and agrarian studies. Local scholars made meaningful contributions despite limited resources, and the department became a hub for specialized research.

Several academics left a lasting impact on the department's development. Bertram Hughes Farmer conducted pioneering studies on the Dry Zone and agriculture; George Thambyahpillay advanced climatology with innovative local applications; and Leslie Panditharatne became a leading figure in urban Geography, in the country.

Other notable contributors included Prof. Kularathnam, Prof. Gereled Peiris, Prof. Gunadasa, Prof. Anoja Wickramasinghe, Prof. C.M. Madduma Bandara, Prof. S.H. Husbullah and Prof. S.K. Hennayaka, who undertook applied research, national contributions, and intellectual contribution towards the enhancement of the department.