International University of Catalonia
Master's Degree in Cosmetic Science and EngineeringSant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
DURATION
2 Semesters
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
EUR 7,709 *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* 120 EUR/ ECTS | registration fee: 509 EUR
Key Summary
Introduction
The Master's Degree in Cosmetic Science and Engineering offers a unique combination of knowledge about traditional cosmetics and cosmetic engineering, something you will not find in other similar programs. In this Master’s Degree, you will explore disciplines such as materials science, controlled molecule release systems, tissue engineering and 3D printing, genetic engineering, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence, all specifically applied to the cosmetics industry.
More than half the program is dedicated to laboratory practices, giving you the opportunity to put into practice the theoretical knowledge you have gained in the classroom. For example, in micro- and nanotechnology practices, you will be able to incorporate active ingredients in micro- and nano-sized particles, controlling the release of these ingredients depending on factors such as pH and temperature. This approach allows you to customize products, as each technology you learn about will allow you to incorporate a number of active ingredients, with each one released in response to specific stimuli. Are you ready to explore the dynamic world of Cosmetic Science and Engineering?
The cosmetics sector is in full growth as personal care is now considered essential in people's daily lives. Current trends are sustainability, achieving sustainable products aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); new technologies and customization, in order to produce innovative and personalized products for end users, as well as developing new, more advanced, and effective formulas; and finally, the use of natural ingredients is a growing trend, given that chemicals have been shown to be harmful in large quantities and regulations are constantly being updated on this basis.
Our Master's program addresses all these issues, thanks to a curriculum that includes traditional and innovative cosmetics, covering all the ways that cosmetic engineering can integrate new technology such as 3D printing, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence.
Ideal Students
The goal of the Master's Degree is to provide advanced and specialized knowledge on the latest technology related to biomaterials and tissue regeneration applied to cosmetics. It is designed to train students in the creation, research and development of cosmetic products, providing both specialist knowledge in the field and a solid foundation in manufacturing, regulation, and marketing.
Admissions
Curriculum
Schedule
- Semester 1: Theoretical classes in the afternoon
- Semester 2: laboratory practical sessions in the afternoon; external work placements and Final Master’s Degree Project.
Subjects in Course 1
- Chemistry of Materials
- Cosmetics Formulation
- Elective
- Entrepreneurship
- Introduction to Cosmetics
- Marketing in Cosmetics
- Policy and Regulations of Cosmetics
- Academic External Practices
- Experimental Lab I
- Experimental Lab II
- TFM
Program Outcome
- Knows the basic principles of traditional cosmetics and applies them in the manufacture of cosmetic products.
- Understands and uses bioengineering tools, such as 3D printing, artificial intelligence, or the use of materials, for innovation in the research, development, and manufacture of cosmetic products.
- Has knowledge of the regulations and guidelines in the cosmetics industry, applying them in manufacturing processes and quality controls.
- Provides support and participates in quality, efficacy, and safety testing for cosmetic products.
- Thinks and acts critically and responsibly during the research, development, and manufacture of cosmetic products, bearing in mind the ethical issues arising from the world of cosmetics.
- Understands and applies the fundamentals of entrepreneurship to develop business plans and manage cosmetics companies that wish to apply the new technologies that bioengineering can provide.
- Has the ability to independently carry out research and development projects for innovative cosmetic products using new bioengineering technologies.
- Is able to form part of interdisciplinary work teams and contribute knowledge and new bioengineering technology in the development of cosmetic products.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Graduate prospects
Undoubtedly, the field of cosmetics is a profession with a great future, especially in Spain and particularly in Catalonia.
Spain stands out internationally as a leader in the cosmetics industry, currently ranking among the top 10 exporters of beauty products worldwide. The sector has seen sustained annual growth, reaching a remarkable 11.3% in 2022 and 7.8% in 2021.
Catalonia has established itself as one of the epicenters of professional cosmetics worldwide. The industry has 71 companies and generates around 15,000 direct jobs and more than 50,000 indirect jobs in the region.
This master's degree gives you the opportunity to access leading positions in the cosmetics industry, taking advantage of Catalonia’s solid growth and influence in the industry.
- Professional training in research and development centers for cosmetics
- Professional work experience with companies in the sector
- Consultancy on R+D+i projects in the cosmetics industry
- Consultancy on marketing and sales in the cosmetics industry
- Consultancy and support in formulating and developing cosmetic products
- Consultancy and participation in quality, efficacy, and safety testing for cosmetic products.
- Consultancy and support in cosmetovigilance and pharmacovigilance