Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science BSc (Hons)

This unique course follows a concept-to-consumer approach, focusing on how pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and toiletry products are developed, formulated, and manufactured. With over 120 years of expertise through the Leicester School of Pharmacy, youll gain cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on experience to succeed in these exciting industries. This is supported by our extensive network of collaborations ensuring that real-time developments in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry are a focal point on the programme.

From foundational sciences like microbiology and cell biology to advanced topics in drug design, personalised medicine, and sustainability, this degree builds the skills and knowledge employers want. With our industry connections, placements, and state-of-the-art labs, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact in the real world.

Key features


• A specialist degree: Were one of the UK’s only degrees combining pharmaceutical and cosmetic science, offering unrivalled training.



• A proud heritage: Benefit from over 120 years of teaching experience in the renowned Leicester School of Pharmacy.



• Industry experience: Take advantage of an optional year-long placement opportunity to build your skills in real-world industrial, research, or regulatory environments. Past students have worked with leading organisations including GSK, Pfizer, ThermoFisher, Reckitt, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Catalent Pharma Solutions, Quotient Sciences, Church & Dwight, and The Hut Group.



• Authentic facilities: Gain practical skills in dedicated labs with industry-standard equipment, preparing you for real-world challenges.



• Broaden your horizons: Our graduates gain rewarding and stimulating careers in the pharmaceutical and/or cosmetic industries including for major companies such as AstraZeneca, Boots, No.7, Reckitt, Catalent, GSK, the NHS, and Barry M.



• Become career ready: Our strong network with industry means you will be able to develop your practical and professional skills in real-world situations through optional placement opportunities and professional mentoring.



• Professional status: Complete an annual personal development plan and one year of industrial experience to achieve Registered Scientist recognition - raising your professional profile.

At DMU, the focus is on your future - with work experience opportunities on every course, an employability-boosting careers award, and industry-led course content, you'll be well prepared to start your career.

You’ll get guaranteed work experience opportunities with UK and overseas placements, internships, and personalised training. DMU has been named the UK’s Best University for Work Experience (RateMyPlacement 2024 & 2025), offering personalised careers support, industry connections, and placements with global names like Rolls-Royce and Adobe.

DMU is one of only a few universities where you’ll benefit from modular, block teaching where you’ll study one subject at a time for deeper learning and better results.

Situated in the heart of Leicester, a vibrant student-friendly city, the campus is just a short walk from everything the city has to offer. Its central location means you can hop on a train and be in cities like London, Birmingham and Nottingham in around an hour or less.