Master of Science in Cosmetic Science

Master of Science in Cosmetic Science
12.01.2024
30
01.13.2025
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Spring 2025 Application Fee Waived

Apply now and save the $65 application fee. Start your journey today.

View Information Session Recording

Watch for an in-depth program overview from faculty, an enrollment services advisor, and current students.

University of Cincinnati’s Master of Science in Cosmetic Science Program

UC’s online Cosmetic Science program offers both a Graduate Certificate and a Hygienic Manufacturing of Cosmetic Products Graduate Certificate with a nationally acclaimed Master of Science in Cosmetic Science Degree. The MS in Cosmetic Science is the most comprehensive program in the field and is led by renowned faculty with corporate and academic experience, expertise, and practical application.

Founded in 1973, our MS in Cosmetic Science is globally recognized as one of the country’s oldest cosmetic science graduate programs. Our innovative programs help prepare students today to gain knowledge of cosmetic science that help them develop as industry leaders for tomorrow.

The Science and Business Behind Cosmetics

As part of the college of the UC James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, the MS in Cosmetic Science teaches students how to appropriately use raw materials to make new products and then develop, formulate, and assess the safety and quality of the products for human use. Students in this program learn how safe, effective, and environmentally friendly products are scientifically formulated.


MSN FNP Video Thumbnail

UC Online | MS Cosmetic Science Program Overview

Want to know what to expect from UC’s online Cosmetic Science program? Hear from program director Dr. K.P. Ananth. In this video, learn more about who this program is for and what you can expect to gain from the online Cosmetic Science program.


Program Offerings

  • 100% online — no campus visits required
  • World-class faculty with real-world experience and extensive academic expertise
  • Option for a concentrated, one-week, hands-on laboratory formulation session on campus.
  • Part-time flexibility — balance school, work, and life responsibilities
  • Transformative curriculum — apply lessons learned immediately in the field

Networking Opportunities

Students and faculty of UC Online’s Cosmetic Science program represent some of the world’s leading cosmetics and pharmaceutical companies. Students can network with working professionals from notable brands, including:

  • L’Oréal
  • Unilever
  • Estée Lauder
  • P&G
  • Johnson & Johnson

Why Study Cosmetic Science?

Earning a Cosmetic Science Degree is a great career choice for those interested in the science behind creating personal care and beauty products. Many students come from large cosmetic companies with chemistry or engineering degrees. Other students come from non-science majors such as business and marketing interested in learning more about the science behind the products.

A graduate degree in Cosmetic Science can help those looking to advance or grow their careers in cosmetics and personal care.

Accreditations and Rankings

The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The University of Cincinnati is an Ohio Public Institution, and each of its programs are approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE).

The University of Cincinnati Online’s programs continues to rank among the best in the nation by U.S. News Rankings, a leading rankings site for education. Notably, the James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy was recently ranked 30th in the country for US pharmacy schools.

Career Options with a Cosmetic Science Degree

A Cosmetic Science degree can help open up employment opportunities in cosmetic, personal care, chemical, pharma, and associated testing organizations. Given the scope and success of this growing industry, cosmetic science careers that benefit from the program include:

  • Personal care science
  • Product development
  • Hair care science
  • Marketing
  • Product manufacturing and packaging
  • Clinical testing and instrumentation
  • Consumer and regulatory affairs
  • Cosmetic chemists and scientists
  • Cosmetic technology
  • Fragrance formulation and testing
  • Quality assurance/control
  • Research and development
  • Skin care formulation
MS COSMETIC SCIENCE GRADUATE TESTIMONIAL
Cynthia J., Master of Science in Cosmetic Science Graduate
“The University of Cincinnati has helped me in my career in so many different ways. Not only did I become a better cosmetic scientist; I connected with other chemists, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals. The extensive curriculum offered by the university broadened my understanding of the field, enabling me to approach problems with a more holistic and innovative mindset. ”

Cynthia J.
Master of Science in Cosmetic Science Graduate

Is UC Online right for me?

Diploma
Career Focus
Learn how to apply the physiology/biology of relevant skin, hair, and OTC drugs for cosmetic and personal care products.
Learn More
Community
Start-to-Graduation Support
Student Success Coordinators are available to students enrolled in online programs — they are your on-campus partner who can help you manage your time and whatever you need to get you to graduation.

Learn from faculty with real-world experience

The UC Cosmetic Science faculty has the corporate experience, expertise, and practical application necessary to train award-winning students.

University of Cincinnati Business Partnerships logo

Business Scholarship Program

UC Online has partnered with hundreds of companies to offer tuition scholarships to employees, spouses, and dependents.

Learn More