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Info

Chemistry with Cosmetic Science

University of Reading

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University of Reading

Course options

2 options available

  • Qualification

    Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

  • Location

    Main Site

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    15-OCT-26

  • Duration

    3 Years

Course summary


Study the chemistry behind the design and development of cosmetics with our unique BSc Chemistry with Cosmetic Science.

Cosmetic science underpins a booming industry. Cosmetics is one of the EU’s five largest markets, with rapid expansion causing a skills shortage of chemists to work on cosmetics development.At Reading, we developed this specialised BSc Chemistry with Cosmetic Science course in conjunction with the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Society of Cosmetic Scientists, and industrial partners.


Working with expert academics in Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Food and Pharmacy, you will learn about:

- the chemistry behind colour and scent in products- how to ensure that cosmetic products are stable- the ethical implications of using different ingredients in a cosmetic product.


Your learning environment

Studying the science behind make-up, creams, gels, toiletries, masks, oral care, hair care and sun creams, you will make extensive use of our advanced technology and laboratory facilities.Core chemistry modules are combined with cosmetic science modules, and look at topics such as the biology of skin and hair, the chemistry of waxes and oils, formulation, and launching a product.


You will learn through lectures, tutorials, practical classes and workshops.


Placements

You'll also have the opportunity to undertake a placement in the cosmetics industry in your third year. For example, the University of Reading has strong links with multinational and local organisations such as Unilever and Alchemy Ingredients.


Final year

In your final year, you will have the option to complete a new product development project. This could include developing an innovative cosmetic product, or reformulating an existing product for one of our industry partners.Your project will follow standard industry processes with input from industry professionals. Alongside the project you will learn about the lifecycle of products and how to take them from idea, to design, to considering toxicology and regulations, and finally launching them to market.For more information, please visit our course page: https://www.reading.ac.uk/ready-to-study/study/subject-area/chemistry-ug/bsc-chemistry-with-cosmetic-science

Application deadline

14/01/2026

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 30,650per year

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

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University information

University of Reading

University of Reading

University of Reading

  • University League Table

    43rd

  • Campus address

    University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6AH, United Kingdom

VIEW PROFILE
Join a global community of students from around 150 countries, plus alumni like actor Tang Wei, rapper Falz and author Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor.
Enhance your academic English with expert support at every level.
Recognised for its generous support, the university offers initiatives like the £6,000-a-year Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarship.

Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    Chemistry

    40th out of 48

  • Entry standards

    / Max 225
    114 51%

    40th

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    81.0 81%

    27th

    12

  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 4
    3.07 77%

    40th

    7

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