Alumni Spotlight: Celine Schmitt, Cosmetic Science

“Even though the Consumer Understanding for Formulators coursework was online, we had hands-on projects. My studies were helpful, fun, and applicable to the consumer research I do at work.” – Celine Schmitt, Cosmetic Science Graduate

Celine found the right opportunity in UC's ACCEND (Accelerated Engineering Degree) program. ACCEND offers an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering in conjunction with the online Master of Science (MS) in Cosmetic Science program. “ACCEND allowed me to work on my master's degree concurrently with my chemical engineering bachelor's degree,” Celine says. The 100% online curriculum covered Celine's interest areas, such as Introduction to Skincare and Haircare Science. Celine's favorite course was Consumer Understanding for Formulators, taught by adjunct professor and ex-P&G scientist Dr. Carol Berning. The coursework covers the role of consumer understanding and consumer research in developing a product, beginning with either new technology or identifying a currently unmet consumer need. Celine was surprised at how much she took away from the class. “Dr. Berning did a great job,” says Celine. “Even though coursework was online, we had hands-on projects. My studies were helpful, fun, and applicable to the consumer research I do at work.” Overall, Celine found the cosmetic science master’s curriculum personally rewarding. She appreciated the program’s online format, which uses cutting-edge instructional design principles, a specialty of UC Online. “The classes dove into the complexities of each area and would build upon one another — a helpful, intuitive design,” Celine says.

“We (fellow students) all learned together even though we’re from different backgrounds. I could've easily felt out of my element, but I didn’t.” – Celine Schmitt, MS in Cosmetic Science Graduate

Throughout her graduate studies, Celine connected with other cosmetic science students and interacted with like-minded people via online discussion boards. She benefited from participating in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Journal Club, which focuses on reading and discussing published or unpublished scientific research, with sessions often led by classmates. Group learning isn’t an aspect students initially expect when they choose UC Online, but it was a highlight for Celine. “It was great getting to know people who work in the industry or want to,” she says. “We all learned together even though we’re from different backgrounds. I could've easily felt out of my element, but I didn’t.”

Celine believes the online MS in Cosmetic Science education is relevant to many fields. With her new understanding of the complexities of the cosmetic industry, she sees myriad opportunities for people choosing the program. “If you want to continue your education in a science and math-based industry, cosmetic science could be the right fit for you,” Celine says. Celine completed the cosmetic science master’s degree program in August of 2022. Looking back, she couldn’t believe how quickly it all went. “I knew the commitment would be difficult, but I believed I could manage it,” she says. “With the professors so responsive, the flexible online format, and the workload doable, I found it manageable to complete this program amongst my other time commitments.” Before graduating, Celine was hired as an ESG scientist for Kao USA Inc, a personal care and chemicals company rooted in Japanese heritage. The firm is responsible for recognizable brands like JERGENS® and Curél®. ESG is defined as Environmental, Social, and Governance. As the ESG Scientist at Kao USA Inc, Celine helps develop these categories to maintain regulatory matters, promote environmental strategies, and remain relevant to the consumer. “We’re in tune with what the consumer wants and with regulatory demands, which are always evolving,” she says. Celine collaborates with the company’s marketing team on messaging and helps bridge the gap between R&D and other business sectors to keep everyone on the same page. “I strategize and help balance what the consumers want with what the government agencies allow,” she says.

Celine credits the online program for playing a significant part in her career journey. “I can 100% say I have this job because of my master's degree,” she says. Are you ready to explore the online MS in Cosmetic Science degree? Or would you prefer to start with a less-intensive program? UC also offers an online 12-credit-hour Cosmetic Science graduate certificate, which can be applied to the master’s degree or serve as a stand-alone accomplishment. To get started on your journey into the field of cosmetic science, connect with an advisor to learn more. Our UC Online staff looks forward to meeting you and learning about your aspirations to work in the exciting, fast-paced cosmetic science industry.