Cosmetic Science

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

We offer:

• Capstone Project MS degree: MS degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences with emphasis in Cosmetic Science (30 credit hours)
• Graduate Certificate (GC) in Cosmetic Science: 12 credit hours covering skin and hair science as well as formulation science
• MS and PhD degrees: Intensive Research based MS and PhD degrees in Pharmaceutical science with emphasis in Cosmetic Science (on-site at Cincinnati)
• Courses for Non-matriculated Students: The online courses are also available to non-matriculated students who have not applied for acceptance into the GC or MS Programs (a maximum of six (6) semester credit hours may be transferred to either Program upon matriculation).

Our online programs are designed to meet the needs of students with an undergraduate degree in sciences and who are interested in pursuing careers in the Cosmetic Science field. Our part-time courses are specifically designed for those who are currently employed in the cosmetic, personal care or chemical industry and would like to advance their career in their fields. 

• All courses are offered asynchronously over the internet to accommodate the work and travel schedules of those who wish to take courses without distraction from their current employment.
• For students pursuing the MS degree, a literature based Capstone project is substituted for a research based thesis and this requires just one visit to Cincinnati for presentation and defense of the Capstone project.
• Each student collaborates with the academic advisor to develop a Plan of Study as a framework that outlines their courses for completion.
• Asynchronous learning with discussion forums and state-of-the-art learning management system allows convenience for effective learning.

Our Students

• To date we have domestic and international students integrating their knowledge base skills through online training to pursue careers in the cosmetic, personal care and chemical industry.
• Our students are highly diverse in age, experience, and ethnic background and include non-US citizens and residents.
• Many are already employed within the personal care industry and are using the program to accelerate their learning curves and enhance their career opportunities. 
• Others are considering a career change into the personal care industry.

Required Courses 

Elective Courses 

• A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• Completed at least one semester of undergraduate course work in biology, organic chemistry, and calculus, or related fields.
• A GPA of a least 3.0.
• Two letters of recommendation (three are preferred) and CV.
• GRE is required for MS degree program with a score of 290/3.0 obtained within the past 5 years. No GRE is required for Certificate admission.
• International students who do not speak English as a first language and who have not completed an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited U.S. institution must pass the TOEFL with a score of at least 90 (IBT or equivalent).