MSc Cosmetic Science

Program Overview

The MSc Cosmetic Science program at the University of Sunderland equips students with the skills and knowledge to work in the cosmetics, personal care, and fragrance industries. It covers various aspects of the industry, including formulation, quality control, safety testing, regulatory framework, and business skills. The program emphasizes practical skills through lab-based experiments and product development exercises, and provides opportunities for internships and placements. Graduates can pursue careers as cosmetic scientists, product developers, quality control analysts, regulatory affairs specialists, marketing managers, and research scientists.

Program Outline

MSc Cosmetic Science - University of Sunderland

Degree Overview:

• Program Description: This MSc Cosmetic Science program provides students with the skills needed to work in the cosmetics, personal care, and fragrance industries in the UK and around the world.
It covers various aspects of the industry, including formulation, quality control, safety and claims substantiation testing, regulatory framework, and business skills.
• Objectives: The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills to:
• Develop and formulate new cosmetic products.
• Conduct quality control and safety testing.
• Understand the regulatory framework for cosmetics products.
• Develop business skills for the cosmetics industry.
• Conduct independent research in cosmetic science.
• Key Features:
• Emphasizes practical skills through lab-based experiments and product development exercises.
• Taught by experienced academics and industry experts.
• Access to advanced cosmetic science labs equipped with the latest equipment.
• Strong industry links with opportunities for internships and placements.

Outline:

• Course Duration: 1 year (full-time)
• Course Structure:
• Lectures
• Group tasks
• Problem-based learning (PBL)
• Lab experiments
• Assessment Methods:
• Written PBL group presentations
• Written examinations (open and closed book)
• Lab reports
• Lab-based creative project
• Modules:
• EU and Worldwide Regulation for the Manufacture and Marketing of Cosmetic, Personal Care and Fragrance Products (30 credits):
• Develops a critical understanding of the legal framework and regulatory bodies for advertising cosmetics and fragrances.
• Focuses on the updated regulations in relation to animal studies and alternative testing methods.
• Builds evaluative skills on claim substantiation testing of products based on statistical analysis of consumer and scientific data.
• Provides expertise and initiative to devise a process for the design of a cosmetic product, taking specific regulatory requirements into consideration.
• Formulation, Manufacture and Material Science Skills for Cosmetic, Personal Care and Fragrance Products (30 credits):
• Enhances knowledge of formulation principles for skincare and haircare cosmetics, personal care products, decorative products, and fragrances.
• Develops analytical and evaluative skills of the manufacturing principles of cosmetics including lab-scale and industrial-scale manufacture, types of equipment, and techniques involved in quality control testing.
• Enables informed decisions on new product development tasks, from raw material selection to critical evaluation of formulation scale-up and manufacturing processes, packaging, and marketing.
• Advanced Business and Marketing Skills in the Cosmetics Industry (30 credits):
• Examines the business and marketing framework in the cosmetic industry, as well as the importance of time management, multitasking, and the ability to communicate information accurately.
• Builds on the evaluative skills involved in project management, planning, and product development.
• Enhances knowledge of planning and developing the relevant documentation for a new product and demonstrates accountability in executing the marketing of a cosmetic product in different countries.
• Advances in Dermatology and Hair Care (30 credits):
• Explores the physiology of healthy and diseased skin, modes of skin aging, the interplay between genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.
• Covers the structure of healthy and damaged hair, ethnic differences in hair structure, hair product testing techniques, and other related topics.
• Develops evaluative skills in the application of appropriate methods to analyze skin and hair properties for claim substantiation testing and critically assess and interpret the data produced with respect to cosmetic products' usage.
• Research Project (60 credits):
• Develops research skills by successfully designing, conducting, and writing up a piece of independent research.
• Demonstrates expertise in the defense of the final research output and the ability to disseminate research findings to an expert audience.

Assessment:

• The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including written exams, lab reports, presentations, and a research project.
• The assessment criteria vary depending on the module and assessment method.
However, they generally assess students' knowledge, understanding, and application of the course material.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced academic staff and industry experts.
• Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, group work, problem-based learning, and laboratory sessions.
• The program uses a student-centered approach, encouraging active participation and independent learning.

Careers:

• Graduates of the program can pursue careers in various areas of the cosmetics, personal care, and fragrance industries, including:
• Cosmetic scientist
• Product developer
• Quality control analyst
• Regulatory affairs specialist
• Marketing manager
• Research scientist

Other:

• The program is suitable for students with a background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
• The program provides students with the opportunity to gain industry experience through internships and placements.
It is possible that the program and its details may have changed since the text was written.
• You should always consult the official website of the University of Sunderland for the most up-to-date information on the MSc Cosmetic Science program.

The fee for this course is: £8,500 if you are from the UK/Europe £16,500 if you are an international student

• European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who do not qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 24/25 admission you will receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies.
The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.