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Take a Science-First Approach to Cosmetics

Today’s consumers are more demanding than ever about what goes in and ON their bodies. Cosmetic Chemists are beauty’s newest class of influencers, and they specialize in developing more innovative and safer formulas to create makeup and toiletries. The West Coast is the innovation hub for the Cosmetic Chemistry industry, and this program shows you how to develop the skills you need to launch or advance your career as a Cosmetic Scientist and make your mark on today’s world of beauty.

Offered in collaboration with the UCR chemistry department, you'll conduct hands-on lab work where you will explore the full realm of cosmetic science with an overview of industry infrastructure and regulations, ingredient names and origins, raw material categories, and more.

This program is endorsed by the California Society of Cosmetic Chemists (CALI SCC).

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  • Money in hand icon

    Est. Tuition $7,475

  • Computer and user icon

    Learning Format Hybrid

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    Duration 12 months *

    *Duration times can vary, talk to your advisor for more information.
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    Total Units 13 Units

This program is designed for professionals in the industry, and individuals looking to work in the cosmetic chemistry industry.

  • How to formulate from a science-first approach
  • Ways to independently move from project conception to final formulation
  • Methods to understand the global cosmetic regulation landscape
  • How to improve trouble-shooting and critical thinking skills

Prior to enrolling, please ensure that you meet the following minimum requirements:

  • At least two years of postsecondary chemistry or biology coursework
  • A foundational understanding of chemistry
  • A background in science, or at least two years of experience working in the cosmetics industry in a technical role

To enroll in the program, you will need to submit a program application with the following supporting documents:

  • Unofficial transcripts (indicating the educational requirements above)
  • Resume

To earn the Professional Certificate in Cosmetic Chemistry, individuals must complete all four courses listed below for a total of 13 quarter units, with a grade of C- or better.

  • Courses must be completed in the specified sequence:
    • Introduction to Cosmetic Science (CHEM X440) 2.00 units
    • Skin and Hair Biology (CHEM X441) 4.00 units
    • Emulsion and Surfactant Technology (CHEM X442) 4.00 units
    • Product Development with an Independent Project (CHEM X443) 3.00 units

Upon completion of the last course, please submit the completion verification form to confirm that all program requirements have been met.

  • The next available cohort starts January 2025.

Required Courses

Course Formats
Course Schedules are Subject to Change
Required (13.00 Units )
 
WinterSpringSummerFall
Introduction to Cosmetic ScienceThis course is the gateway into the realm of cosmetic science.
2.00 Units
Skin and Hair BiologyThis course will build on the basics outlined in Introduction to Cosmetic Science.
4.00 Units
Emulsion and Surfactant TechnologyThis course is the third in the series and includes a lab component.
4.00 Units
Product Development with an Independent ProjectThis course draws on all of the previous information to showcase what students have learned to ultimately create their own product.
3.00 Units

Upcoming Courses

This certificate is offered as a cohort. Courses must be completed in the order listed above, as each course acts as a prerequisite for the next.

Jan14Winter 2025
Apr28Spring 2025
Jul07Summer 2025
Future Dates

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Completion Verification

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