Global Appeal: Perspectives from Master’s in Cosmetic Science International Graduates

From Iraq to Canada, graduates of University of Cincinnati’s online Master of Science in Cosmetic Science program have embraced its flexibility, cutting-edge curriculum, and global relevance. We spoke with three international graduates — Aya, Kshipra, and Natalie — about their experiences completing the program from different parts of the world.

Q: Where are you from, and where were you living while pursuing the M.S. in Cosmetic Science program?

Aya: I am from Iraq. After enrolling in the program, I relocated to Oman before returning to my hometown in Iraq midway through. Throughout the program, I frequently traveled, balancing my studies across different locations.

Kshipra: India, where I studied while raising my one-year-old daughter.

Natalie: I pursued my degree from Vancouver, where I am from.

Q: What motivated you to pursue a Master of Science in Cosmetic Science, and why did you choose an online program?

Aya: The program’s unique focus on cosmetic science was a significant motivator for me. Coming from Iraq, where this specialization is not available as a standalone discipline, I saw it as an opportunity to pursue a field I’m passionate about while positioning myself as a pioneer in my country.

I chose the online format for the flexibility it offered. Being able to study and manage coursework on my own schedule allowed me to balance this degree with my concurrent MBA program. The structure taught me not only discipline and multitasking but also how to take ownership of my academic journey.

Kshipra: I had always dreamed of pursuing my master’s degree, but personal and financial challenges postponed my journey. I envisioned completing my education on my terms while balancing work. When I discovered the opportunity to earn my degree online from University of Cincinnati, I felt a surge of hope to prepare for it and enroll as soon as possible.

Natalie: I’d like to pursue a career in personal care, and the online program offers flexibility.

Q: Why did you select UC Online over other institutions?

Aya: UC Online stood out for its combination of expert-led teaching, affordability, and versatility. The program’s instructors brought real-world insights from the cosmetics industry, and the cost was competitive compared to similar programs. The curriculum’s breadth and depth also excited me, inspiring me to explore the industry more deeply.

Kshipra: I chose University of Cincinnati specifically because it offers an online cosmetic science program. Upon reviewing the curriculum, I felt even more certain about my decision. The program covers essential topics such as basic surfactant chemistry, consumer science, and ethics, all of which are crucial for a career as a product development chemist.

Natalie: There are not many cosmetic science programs, and UC’s has a great reputation and offers the most flexibility.

Q: How did the online, asynchronous format fit into your work-life balance?

Aya: The asynchronous format perfectly complemented my lifestyle. It enabled me to manage coursework alongside my MBA studies without compromising quality. This flexibility optimized my study-life balance, allowing me to focus on mastering the material without unnecessary stress.

Kshipra: I opted for an online program for my master’s degree to effectively balance my career and family life in India. With a one-year-old daughter at home, it was essential for me to be actively involved in her upbringing. The structure of the program, featuring weekly assignments, allowed me to manage my studies effectively by dedicating my weekends to coursework.

Natalie: It was very convenient and allowed accommodation for different time zones.

Q: What was your experience connecting with professors and fellow students while studying from another country?

Interacting with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds enriched the experience, offering a global perspective on the cosmetics industry.

Aya: Studying internationally and connecting with professors and peers was one of the program’s most rewarding aspects. Despite the physical distance, the professors were highly accessible and shared valuable insights drawn from their extensive industry experience.

Interacting with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds enriched the experience further, offering a global perspective on the cosmetics industry. These connections fostered a collaborative and inclusive environment, making the program feel both personalized and international in scope.

Kshipra: Professors are interactive with students, responding promptly to emails and engaging in discussion boards. They are approachable and willing to provide guidance, even across different time zones. There are opportunities for one-on-one interactions via Zoom, Teams, or Webex for deeper discussions and personalized feedback.

Q: Were there any challenges you faced due to being in a different time zone or cultural setting, and how did you overcome them?

Aya: Adapting to a new academic system and navigating tools like Canvas were initial adjustments. However, with strong support from UC’s staff and professors, I quickly adapted. Their guidance taught me to be independent while not hesitating to seek help when needed — a valuable lesson for any academic endeavor.

Kshipra: I did not personally encounter any challenges related to being in a different time zone. Midnight worked well for me because it aligns with the U.S. time zone. I found it helpful to have meetings at that time because I work during the day and also have a small daughter.

Q: Which parts of the curriculum were most impactful or relevant to your career?

The entire curriculum is designed for comprehensive development in the field of cosmetics…[It] provides an opportunity for holistic growth, enabling individuals to work in various areas within the industry.

Aya: The curriculum’s versatility was eye-opening, showcasing the vast opportunities within the cosmetics industry. One standout course was Consumer Behavior, taught by Dr. Carol Berning, which shaped my passion for understanding consumer psychology in the beauty sector. Every course I took contributed to my growth, both academically and professionally.

Kshipra: In my opinion, the entire curriculum is designed for comprehensive development in the field of cosmetics. After working in product development for 10 years, I have learned that simply working in a lab is not enough. A cosmetic chemist should also know production facilities, consumer behavior, ethical practices, statistics, fragrance, and the fundamental biology of skin and hair. This curriculum provides an opportunity for holistic growth, enabling individuals to work in various areas within the industry.

Q: How has the program influenced your professional growth or career opportunities?

Aya: This program profoundly impacted my professional growth. Academically, it fueled my research on consumer behavior in the beauty industry and its intersection with business. Professionally, it opened doors to roles in cosmetics regulatory affairs and related fields, giving me the confidence to explore diverse career paths.

Kshipra: When I started the program, I simply aimed to learn more about cosmetics. However, I also gained a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry, biology, and statistics, which I can now apply in various work areas. The knowledge I acquired has opened up opportunities for me in different sectors, including the personal care and home care industries.

Natalie: This program offers a basic understanding of cosmetic science and personal care, with options to choose electives to tailor your experience. This has allowed me to apply for opportunities to work within the beauty sector.

Q: Do you feel that the online program has a global perspective, and did it address the unique needs of international students?

Aya: Absolutely. The program catered to international students by providing the flexibility to study from home across different time zones while fostering meaningful interactions with peers and faculty from around the world. The blend of academic rigor and cultural exchange made it an exceptional and transformative experience.

Kshipra: The program aligns with both EU and US markets, providing a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape. It includes modules on formulating products for various skin types and hair textures, reflecting the needs of diverse populations.

I appreciated the most the focus on ethics, the journal club, biostatistics, pharmacoeconomics, and an overview of formulating OTC products. This knowledge gives me an edge over others, allowing me to implement these concepts in my daily work.

Overall, I can confidently say that the course curriculum is both comprehensive and evolving. As I was nearing the completion of my program, the topic of hygienic manufacturing practices was covered. This topic is crucial today, especially since consumers are increasingly seeking clean beauty claims on product packaging.

Natalie: Yes, the flexibility made it possible to accommodate different time zones.

Q: Would you recommend this program to other international students?

I wholeheartedly recommend this program…especially those from international backgrounds. It offers an unparalleled combination of flexibility, expertise, and global exposure.

Aya: I wholeheartedly recommend this program without reservation for prospective students, especially those from international backgrounds. It offers an unparalleled combination of flexibility, expertise, and global exposure, making it ideal for anyone passionate about cosmetic science and seeking world-class education without geographic constraints. If I could choose again, I would return to UC without a second thought. Being a Bearcat is not just a privilege – it’s a transformative experience.

Kshipra: University of Cincinnati’s Master of Science in Cosmetic Science is an outstanding choice for those looking to advance their careers in this dynamic field. Known for its exceptional reputation, this program provides a robust foundation in both the science and business aspects of cosmetic formulations.

I strongly recommend it to international students for several compelling reasons: it has a prestigious standing in the industry, an enriching and comprehensive curriculum, insightful lectures delivered by leading experts, a dedicated support system for international students, and the chance to build connections with peers from around the world. If you’re looking to advance your career in cosmetic science without the need to relocate, this program is an excellent choice. The online program is flexible and also has an opportunity for in-person lab training for hands-on experience. The online format tends to attract diverse students from different countries and professional backgrounds, creating opportunities for rich exchanges of ideas and experiences.

Natalie: Yes, I was extremely satisfied with the program!

If you’re looking to advance your career in cosmetic science without the need to relocate, this program is an excellent choice.

Join a Global Cosmetic Science Community

Aya, Kshipra, and Natalie are just a few of the many talented international students drawn to University of Cincinnati’s online Master of Science in Cosmetic Science program. With its flexible online format, comprehensive curriculum led by industry experts, and supportive community, the program empowers students to explore every aspect of cosmetic science, no matter where they are in the world.

Ready to join this global community? Connect with us today to learn more about how UC Online can help you achieve your goals.