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Course modules

Block 1: Fundamental Principles in Cosmetic Science (30 credits)

This module is designed to explore the relationship between the physiological properties of external body parts and the effect cosmetics has on them. This will be considered in a global context. The module will cover the principles of colloid science, the advanced applications of ‘structured’ formulations in cosmetic products and analysis of the safety and efficacy of preservatives in various cosmetic products. This module will also consider the application of colour theory and advanced rheology, its characterisation, and its relevance to the cosmetic industry.

Block 2: Design, Formulation and Manufacture of Cosmetic Products (30 credits)

The module seeks to provide students with tools and methodologies required to incorporate cosmetic ‘actives,’ interpret their mechanism of action and their physicochemical properties, including natural products. Quantitative evaluation of cosmetic formulations will be studied and critiqued. The factors that drive innovation in product design will be explored including sustainability, in line with the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs). It will cover aspects of manufacturing including, but not limited to, scale up, equipment (bench top and large scale) and different forms of cosmetic products. 

Block 3: Cosmetics: Concept to Consumer (30 credits)

The module is designed to equip the students with a comprehensive understanding of cosmetic product lifecycle management; from inception to the hand of consumers. It will address qualitative evaluation of cosmetic products, and their development will be considered in the context of industry regulations, sustainability, and safety guidelines.

Block 4: Research and Innovation in Cosmetic Science (30 credits)

The module will introduce business creation and innovation across the sector. It will consider entrepreneurship and highlight emerging trends in the cosmetics industry. It will also consider the challenges of new product development and how fundamental research, and product development can address them. This module also aims to extend students' understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods, analysing quantitative data and the presentation of data in an accessible fashion. 

Block 5 and 6: Research Dissertation (60 credits)

The module will provide each student with the opportunity to conduct an independent research project in a topic aligned to Cosmetic Science. It will build on the students' knowledge of research methods and concepts.

Teaching and assessment

You will be expected to participate in an extensive programme of learning that will require full commitment and focus throughout your study.

The learning environment for the first four blocks of teaching is varied with

• Lectures
• Workshops
• Seminars
• Laboratory-based practicals
• Computer laboratories

You can expect to spend about a third of your directed study time working at the bench in our research laboratories. In the fifth and sixth blocks of teaching, the learning venue will depend on your dissertation topic and will be much more aimed at guided self-study.

Each module is assessed by coursework; a variety of assessment methods are used throughout the programme which are authentic to the role of an industrial cosmetic scientist. The assessments include practical reports, case study reports; oral and poster presentations and a final dissertation. 

Academic expertise

The course is taught by a dedicated team of experienced professionals, who bring valuable expertise to the classroom. The teaching staff consists of research-active practitioners and industrial experts who integrate both their academic and professional experience into the course. Additionally, the team is supported by visiting lecturers who are experts within the cosmetics industry. The teaching team draw on their research experience in cosmetic science to deliver a programme with a strong emphasis on innovation and product development.