Cosmetic Science (CSP)

Work Term Option (CSPC)

Starts in May, September

Campus

Seneca@York

Delivery

In-person

Duration

2 Semesters (1 Year)

Study Option

Full-time

Credential

Ontario College Graduate Certificate

School

School of Biological Sciences & Applied Chemistry

Courses

Delivery: At Seneca, courses are delivered in the following formats: online, in-person, hybrid (an online, in-person combination) or flexible (offered in-person and online at the same time).

The chart below outlines the delivery options available for each course in this program. For some academic terms, there may be more than one delivery option available. You’ll be able to select your preferred options when building your course schedule during open enrolment.

Preferences for course delivery will be considered on a first come, first served basis.

Semester 1

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
CSP102	Product Evaluation and Biological Targets	Not offered	In-person	In-person
	Cosmetics are designed to alter or improve the appearance of the human body. When formulating, the cosmetic scientist strives to develop products that are safe, possess consistent characteristics and have the desired effect when applied to a biological system. The form, function and special considerations of biological systems will be examined. Products will be evaluated for safety and claims substantiation. quality control assessments of stability and contamination will be performed.
CSP103	Pigments, Powders and Poured Products	Not offered	In-person	In-person
	Colour is a factor that may attract consumers to products. This course investigates colour theory and techniques used to evaluate colour. Students will examine the types of colouring agents and regulations surrounding colour usage. Formulation strategies for colour cosmetics will be explored and students will manufacture a variety of products using equipment employed in the industry.
CSP104	Formulation I	Not offered	In-person	In-person
	The physical properties of cosmetic emulsions are strongly influenced by the basic principles of surface science ie the interaction of different phases at a boundary. Students will explore the theoretical and practical aspects of emulsions and factors affecting emulsion stability in a variety of product types creams, lotions, and gels.
CSP105	Regulations and the Cosmetic Industry	Not offered	In-person	In-person
	Cosmetic products marketed throughout the world must comply with jurisdictional legislation pertaining to ingredients, manufacturing, claims and labeling. This course will focus on Canadian acts, regulations and guidelines, as well as legislation in other major global markets. Differences and standards of practice in the global market, including definitions and regulations applied to cosmeceuticals, natural and organic products will also be discussed.
CSP111	Raw Materials	Not offered	In-person	In-person
	In this course, students begin a journey into the world of cosmetic raw materials. Cosmetics are formulated using a wide range of raw materials. each component has a specific function in the final product. Students will delve into the classification, sourcing, sustainable practices, functional analysis, selection methodologies of cosmetic raw materials, and develop instrumentation expertise in analysis.
WTP100	Work Term Preparation	Not offered	Hybrid	Online
	This Work Term Preparation course is designed to empower students with the tools, skills, and strategies needed to navigate the modern job market and achieve long-term career success. Through self-assessment, career exploration, helping students to identify and leverage skills from their existing experiences, students will develop a deep understanding of their personal strengths, values, personality, interests and goals. The course covers essential topics such as crafting professional résumés and cover letters, mastering interview techniques, and building a strong personal brand, including an online presence. Students will learn how to research career pathways, evaluate job market trends, and create actionable career plans tailored to their aspirations. Emphasis is placed on professional communication, networking, workplace readiness, and adapting to diverse organizational cultures. Additionally, the course provides insights into negotiating job offers, managing career transitions, and professional growth. With a focus on lifelong learning and continuous improvement, this course equips students with the confidence and resources to pursue fulfilling careers while remaining adaptable in a dynamic and competitive workforce. Ideal for students preparing to enter the job market or those seeking to refine their career trajectory, this course fosters self-awareness, professional readiness, and strategic career planning.

Work-Integrated Learning Term

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
CSP441	Cosmetic Science, Work Term	Hybrid Online In-person	Not offered	Hybrid Online In-person

Semester 2

Course Code	Course Name	Winter	Summer	Fall
CSP106	Formulation II: Advanced Concepts	In-person	In-person	Not offered
	Many product formulations are not simple two-phase chemical systems. additives such as preservatives and actives necessitate more complex formulation methodologies that require stabilization strategies. Encapsulation techniques, sensory modification and scale-up in various products will be investigated. Emphasis will be placed on stabilizing products and adjusting formulations for different dispensing systems. Pilot plants and scale-up strategies will also be examined.
CSP107	Fragrances	In-person	In-person	Not offered
	Fragrance is the signature of the brand. Fragrance generates emotional response within the consumer and is a key motivator to purchase the product. The chemistry of fragrances is analyzed. additionally environmental impact on sourcing and formulating with fragrances will be examined.
CSP108	Actives	In-person	In-person	Not offered
	Many modern-day products have characteristics of both cosmetics and drugs in terms of their effects on skin, while others affect the biology or protect the skin surface only. This course will explore these ingredients with specific focus on their biological impact and mechanism of action.
CSP109	Product Development, Marketing and Sales	In-person	In-person	Not offered
	The journey of a product from the beaker to the box involves the collaboration of various departments and disciplines. Market forces, consumer opinions and trends provide catalysts for the product development process but the steps leading it from concept to physical realization are critical. This course will provide the student with a broad understanding of the role of each relevant party in a products life cycle and develop an appreciation for the more customer-focused side of the industry.
CSP110	Capstone Project: Rouge	In-person	In-person	Not offered
	Art meets science meets the entrepreneur in this exciting, multidisciplinary course that combines all the elements of cosmetic science and culminates in the production of a cosmetic. Working in small teams, students cost/ source materials, develop, manage, formulate and manufacture a regulatory compliant product. Projects will be presented to, and judged by, a panel of industry experts.
PQA713	Introduction to Cosmetic Quality Assurance	In-person	In-person	Not offered
	Students will investigate Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and their application in manufacturing and lab situations. Students will focus on the functions of the Quality Team and where Quality Assurance and Quality Control work together to maintain the safety and quality of finished goods as well as the Quality management system and how various documents are used in change management situations.

Program Learning Outcomes

Learn more about program learning outcomes for this program.

Archived Program & Course Information

To find details on programs or courses from prior academic years, browse our archive of program information.