MSc Cosmetic Science

Entry requirements

The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are:

One or a combination of the following accepted full level 3 qualifications.

• Three A Level passes to a minimum of 120 new UCAS tariff points (equivalent to 300 old UCAS tariff points) – one of the subjects must be Chemistry, Biology or Physics at a minimum grade of C or equivalent;
• DDD at BTEC Extended Diploma in a relevant Science subject;
• or equivalent EU or non-EU qualifications such as International Baccalaureate Diploma;
• and Five GCSE passes at grade A*-C or grade 9-4, including Maths and two Science subjects.

APEL (Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning)

Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases. The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:

• Related academic or work experience
• The quality of the personal statement
• A strong academic or other professional reference
• OR a combination of these factors

Each application will be considered on its own merit but we cannot guarantee an offer in each case.

Months of entry

September

Course content

An integrated master’s course leading to a unique classification, in which students start at undergraduate level and are awarded a Master’s award upon completion. The MSc Cosmetic Science is designed for students who want a career in the cosmetic and personal care industries. This unique course provides students with specific scientific knowledge and skills in different areas underpinning cosmetic science. The Cosmetic Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) recognises the course as one of ‘immediate relevance to the industry’ due to its scientific, technological and business curriculum.

MSc Cosmetic Science is an applied science course designed for students who want a career in the cosmetics and personal care industries. The course focusses on the needs of those industries and their consumers. These industries have expanded rapidly in recent years, as consumers have become more aware of the potential benefits of cosmetic products, and more critical of the way they are produced.

In addition to subject-specific knowledge, the course enables students to develop the critical and analytical skills necessary to become cosmetic scientists. Graduates from MSc Cosmetic Science are employed throughout the industry, both in the UK and internationally, in a wide range of roles. These include research and development, product manufacturing, marketing, technical sales, product testing, quality assurance, logistics and regulation sectors.

LCF’s Move

From September 2023, this course will be taught on our new single campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. This is part of a new development for London, prioritising culture, education and innovation, known as East Bank. 

London College of Fashion – which is part of University of the Arts London – leads the world in all things fashion. We believe in open education for everyone. We encourage all students to shine. To develop inventive, assertive ideas that challenge the society we live in. As an LCF student, you'll gain the skills, opportunities and above all, the freedom to put your ideas into practice.

Information for international students

IELTS level 6.5 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking (please check our main English language requirements webpage).

Fees and funding

Find out more about bursaries, loans and scholarships.