What to Expect

As a cosmetic science graduate student, you'll spend half the day in class, then head to the lab to work on formulations or carry out research. Later, you'll go to the library to read about the newest advances in cosmetic science.

"What I really like is that it's hands-on, practical experience that's going to be useful in a job," says Katherine Dowse. She took a master's degree program in cosmetic and personal care products technology at the University of Rhode Island.

"I also like that it's science, but it has creative aspects to it. I think it's a mixture of business and science -- you have to think about what will appeal to a customer and what's a marketable product." Cosmetic scientists also need to be familiar with product regulations, Dowse adds.

The independence required of master's students was something that required a little adjustment, says Dowse. "The program is really what you make of it. You do research on your own and you decide what your areas of interest are."

However, during your four-year bachelor's degree, you can practice good study skills and join clubs to help you gain confidence in time for your master's program, she adds.

How to Prepare

In high school, focus on math, science and business courses, says Dowse. And take courses in art. "Any creative field like that helps, because you have to use colors and have some creativity when you're formulating. One thing I found was good was looking through advertisements in magazines."

Cosmetic science is about more than just making pretty colors for cosmetics. Dowse says she was always interested in the scientific aspect of creating cosmetics.

"I don't want to just play with different colors and work with one kind of lipstick and just put in different colors. I want to do something a little more scientific."