BSc Chemistry with Cosmetic Science with Foundation Year

Study the chemistry behind the design and development of cosmetics - and develop core academic skills with our unique BSc Chemistry with Cosmetic Science with Foundation Year degree.

Please note that this course is now closed for 2023 applicants.

This four-year programme includes a foundation year that leads directly into the three-year BSc Chemistry with Cosmetic Science degree. It provides an excellent route to a degree in chemistry if you do not have the typical entry requirements.

The foundation year will provide you with the skills and knowledge to succeed at university. You’ll develop core skills in academic study, writing and research.

Your subject-specific studies will focus on basic principles in:

• biology
• chemistry
• ecology
• sustainability
• mathematics.

Your learning will be delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical classes and workshops.

A foundation year is more than just a stepping-stone to a degree. You will also benefit from:

• access to our full range of facilities and resources
• full integration into university life, before your degree year begins
• experience of an academic environment, and the ability to work independently
• specialist support and guidance.

After successful completion of your foundation year, you’ll progress onto our three-year BSc Chemistry with Cosmetic Science degree.

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 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. You will also have the opportunity to undertake a placement in the cosmetics industry in your third year. For example, the University of Reading has strong links with multinational and local organisations such as Unilever, Tropic Skincare and Alchemy Ingredients.

In your final year, you will 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.