University of Sunderland

BSc (Hons) Cosmetic Science Full-time

University of SunderlandOn campus, United Kingdom

Course overview

If you're passionate about science and interested in the beauty, skincare, or personal care industries, the BSc (Hons) Cosmetic Science degree is your gateway to a creative and fast-growing sector. You’ll explore the science behind cosmetics through core subjects like chemistry, physiology, dermatology, and the principles of formulation, with a strong focus on how these apply to real-world products. You'll also gain an understanding of the regulatory, business, and marketing frameworks that shape the global cosmetics industry.

In your second year, you'll take a deeper dive into formulation science, dermatology, and professional practice, learning about the importance of colour, and how products are manufactured at both lab and industrial scale. Your final year includes a research project, which you can tailor to your interests or link to a previous placement or work experience, which is an excellent opportunity to impress future employers and apply your knowledge to a real-world challe

Key highlights

  • Core study of chemistry, physiology, dermatology and formulation principles
  • Covers regulatory, business and marketing frameworks of the cosmetics industry
  • Second-year focus on formulation science, colour and professional practice
  • Learn how products are manufactured at lab and industrial scale
  • Final-year research project can link to a placement or work experience

Entry requirements

  • UCAS tariff points: 96-112 — Text: Our typical offer is 96-112 UCAS Tariff points, from a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A Levels, T Levels, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.
  • GCSE: C or above — You also need three passes at GCSE grade C or above.
  • A-level — must include chemistry. Please note, we don't accept General Studies AS or A Level. We accept T Level science only. We accept a maximum of 6 points from Level 3 Key Skills qualifications. If English is your second language, we require a mi…

Scholarships

  • Douglas Clasper Elite Sports Scholarship

    The scholarship will award the following in each year of study (based on academic progression): £2,000 cash payment; a tuition fee discount of 20%; a 20% discount on university-managed accommodation.

  • East Durham College Partnership Award

    This award provides a £1,500 cash award in each year of study, helping you access higher education with greater ease.

    Up to £1,500

  • First Choice Travel Award

    This award provides £500 cash in your first year of study to assist with transport expenses, helping students access higher education with greater ease.

    Up to £500

  • Global Leaders Scholarship

    £6,000 tuition fee reduction for undergraduates, £4,000 for MPharm Pharmacy students, or £5,500 tuition fee reduction (postgraduates).

  • Helen McArdle Nursing Scholarship

    There are five scholarships available. Each scholarship awards £1,200 in each year of study.

    Up to £1,200

  • Interview Travel Reimbursement

    Up to £100

  • Open Day Travel Reimbursement

    Up to £100

  • Sir Bob Murray Health Scholarship (Psychology)

    There are five scholarships available. Each scholarship awards £1,000 in your first year of study.

    Up to £1,000

  • Sunderland College Award

    Our Sunderland College Award provides £1,500 plus a £250 voucher, in each year of continuous study. This will support you financially throughout your time at university.

  • Tees Valley Travel Award

    This award provides a £1,500 cash award in each year of study to assist with transport expenses, helping you access higher education with greater ease.

    Up to £1,500

  • The Mary and Brian Archer Experience Scholarships

    Up to £750.

Careers this course leads to

  • Cosmetic scientist
  • Formulation chemist
  • Regulatory affairs officer
  • Product development scientist
  • Quality control analyst
  • Technical marketing specialist

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790 per year | International: £17,500 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Sunderland, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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