There are a wide variety of specialised courses designed specifically for people already working within the cosmetic and personal care industry in some capacity, with courses for those looking to gain further insight into the science behind cosmetics or others with a focus on the business and management side of the industry.
The Society of Cosmetic Scientists (SCS)
The Society of Cosmetic Scientists is made up of around 1000 individuals with high scientific qualifications and with experience both academically and industrially in cosmetics or related sciences. The Society's key objective is to advance the science of cosmetics and it works hard to provide publications, educational programmes and scientific meetings both in the UK and internationally through its affiliation with the International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC).
The Society runs a Distance Learning Course leading to the SCS Diploma. It also runs a week-long Residential Course every two years.
Distance Learning Course - SCS Diploma (Cosmetic Science)
The SCS Distance Learning Cosmetic Science Diploma is equivalent to a Certificate in Higher Education and the first year of an undergraduate degree course. The course is a modular format with units written and assessed by industry experts. There are four modules, some of which are accompanied by short films on either laboratory work or aspects of production.
This course provides the recipient with an industry recognised qualification in the essentials of cosmetic science which is perfectly suited for those working in or around the cosmetic and personal care industry in need of an extra qualification and allows for study at whichever pace needed.
SCS Introduction to Cosmetic Science
The SCS Introduction to Cosmetic Science course is designed for people who don’t have academic qualifications in scientific subjects, such as chemistry, but who are interested in the fundamentals of cosmetic science for either their work or as a consumer.
Principles and Practice in Cosmetic Science - Residential Course
The Principles & Practice in Cosmetic Science week-long course is targeted at scientists who have been working in the industry for a few years and are looking to move on to more managerial or supervisory roles, primarily but not exclusively in the scientific functions.
The course involves a challenging product development exercise with the lectures organised to support the challenge by providing information relevant to the evening's work on the exercise. It is intended that reinforcement of the learning process will be achieved by practical application of the material provided in the lectures. Additionally, some relevant managerial skills will also be provided, such as, team working & project management. The objective is to maximise the learning experience of the participants.
The course is recognised under the Continuous Professional Development Schemes of both the Society of Biology and the Royal Society of Chemistry. The programme runs every 24 months.
ICATS (the International Centre for Aroma Trades Studies)
For over 25 years, ICATS has provided flexible quality distance learning to professionals and aspiring professionals in any part of the aroma trades, perfumery and flavour industries on an international basis. Going on to study this course will lead participants to the IFEAT Diploma in Aroma Trades Studies (Perfumery or Flavours).
The course provides the broad knowledge and capability needed by all professionals in the industry and is as relevant to a QC chemist in an essential oil company as it is to a creative perfumer. The course is 'open entry' with a foundation module providing the basic science and mathematics levels needed.
Written by the industry for the industry, the course has received the full support of the British Society of Perfumers with students being given 'Student Member' status from the Society. Many International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades (IFEAT) member companies also give their support and ICATS is developing further its links with International Fragrance Association (IFRA) UK to continue to evolve and develop the industry input for the improvement of the programme.
