Chemistry with Cosmetic Science with a Year in Industry

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

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 with a Year in Industry 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.

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-with-a-year-in-industry

There are many reasons to choose the University of Reading. Join a diverse and supportive community where lecturers inspire you with their discoveries and guide you in making your own. Reading’s award-winning parkland campus offers the spaces you need to make the most of your student life.

The University of Reading is a research-intensive university. It works with governments, international agencies and charities to tackle the biggest problems facing the world today, such as climate change, heart disease, and international conflict.

Named The Sustainable University of The Year, 2025, Reading launched one of the UK's largest ever undergraduate scholarship schemes, designed to develop future Global Sustainability Leaders Scholarships. The scholarship offers £6000 per year towards living expenses and will be available to those entering Clearing that meet the criteria. With over 150 clubs and societies, Reading knows how important life is beyond your studies and with the student union's in the heart of the campus, making the University of Reading your first call in Clearing will be one of the best decisions you ever made.