Announcement
DPCS - S38

Diploma in
Perfumery &
Cosmetic Science

OVERVIEW

Why is the Diploma in Perfumery & Cosmetic Science the best course for me in 2025?

Are you passionate about the science of beauty and want to merge creativity with innovation? If so, the Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science offers unparalleled opportunities to innovate in fragrance and cosmetics. Train in Asia’s first Perfumery & Cosmetic Science Centre, develop formulations, and collaborate with industry leaders. Internships with top companies provide practical experience, preparing you for a lucrative and stable career in the global beauty industry.

 

CLS-DPCS Students Observing Cosmetics Bottle-v01

What are the benefits of studying perfumery and cosmetic science in 2025?

You will master formulation techniques and critical thinking skills. These skills will help you understand and innovate complex cosmetic formulations. The diploma provides experience with large-scale projects, working with experts, and preparing you to advance the industry.

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What is perfumery and cosmetic science in 2025?

Perfumery and cosmetic science in 2025 is about more than beauty products; it’s focused on the science of formulation. Combining chemistry with innovation, the field emphasises creating sustainable and effective fragrances and skincare solutions, making it a crucial part of the future of beauty and personal care.

How does perfumery and cosmetic science impact our daily lives?

With perfumery and cosmetic science, you grasp the science behind beauty and fragrance. Without it, skin treatments would be limited, and beauty routines would be very different. This field empowers you to lead advancements, making products that help people feel good about their appearance and boost their confidence.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

What will I study in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science?

Please note: Course structure is subject to change.

Electives

The SP elective framework offers students options to pursue their passion and/or meet different career needs, and is an integral part of the holistic education we seek to provide to our students.

Learn about SP Elective Framework

The Common Core Curriculum (CCC) prepares you for a changing world with essential human and digital skills. Through its 10 modules, the CCC also provides a wide learning experience to examine local and global issues based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These modules help you understand real-world issues and the impact on different communities, and equip you with skills to create a better, sustainable Singapore and world.

Learn about Common Core Curriculum

Building the Foundations of Perfumery and Cosmetic Science
In Year 1, you’ll cover the basics of perfumery and cosmetic science, learning key practices, terminologies, and essential software. Courses like Microbiology & Genetics and Chemical Safety and Biosafety will build your foundation.
Module Name
Total Hours
Basic Mathematics
60
Biochemistry & Cell Biology
60
Chemical Safety and Biosafety
45
Chemistry & its Applications
45
Chemistry I
60
Chemistry II
75
Collaboration in the Digital Age
15
Education and Career Guidance
30
Effective Writing for the Workplace
15
Elective 1
45/60
Engineering Mathematics
60
Instrumental Analysis
60
Introductory Food Science
45
Microbiology & Genetics
60
Persuasive Communication with Data Storytelling
30
Problem Solving with Creative & Computational Thinking
15
Thinking Critically about the UN SDGs
30
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Who is Perfumery and Cosmetic Science for?

CLS-DPCS Student in Smart Lab-v01

What are the eligibility requirements for perfumery and cosmetic science?

You must meet the following criteria to qualify for the Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science:

How do I know if perfumery and cosmetic science is for me?

If you’re passionate about blending science with creativity, the perfumery and cosmetic science course is ideal. It’s designed for students who are analytical, creative and detailed. You'll hone your skills in Chemistry and Biology, applying them to formulate and test products, solve problems, and collaborate with others. Plus, you’ll train your sense of smell, a key skill for aspiring fragrance evaluators and perfumers.

 

YOUR FUTURE

What is the future of DPCS?

CLS-DCSP Student Observing Bottle of Oil-v01

Perfumery and Cosmetic Science at SP prepares me for the future.

What facilities does SP have to prepare me for the future in perfumery and cosmetic science?

Getting familiar with the perfumery and cosmetic science industry involves practical experience.

At SP, you can work in the Perfumery and Cosmetic Science Centre to develop and test new products, the Consumer Chemicals and Technology Centre for collaborative industry projects.

SP’s advanced labs equip you with the skills needed to innovate and excel in your field.

Perfumery and Cosmetic Science at SP prepares me for Singapore.

What opportunities are there for perfumery and cosmetic science in Singapore and the region?

Perfumery and cosmetic science develop products that boost well-being. In 2025, AI and technology are transforming product creation. SP equips you with the knowledge to stay ahead. It’s not just a creative field; it also requires strong scientific and technical skills.

Perfumery and Cosmetic Science at SP prepares me for the world.

What are the different types of fields covered in perfumery and cosmetic science?

There are many niche fields within perfumery and cosmetic science. At SP, you can explore:

  • Fragrance Development: Learn to create unique scents by studying the chemistry of fragrance ingredients and blending techniques.
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  • Skincare/Haircare Formulation: Focus on designing products that improve skin health, understanding ingredient effects and formulation processes.

  • Regulatory Affairs: Ensure products meet safety standards, studying compliance and legal aspects of the industry.

These different types of fields equip you with the skills and knowledge to excel in the perfumery and cosmetic science industry.

INDUSTRY EXPOSURE

What industry exposure do I get in perfumery and cosmetic science?

What can I expect from my perfumery and cosmetic science  internship?

Expect to undertake a 44-week internship, significantly longer than typical internships. This extended duration allows you to establish rapport with industry professionals and take on meaningful, long-term projects. Past students have interned at top companies like Procter & Gamble, Givaudan, and Symrise Asia, often excelling beyond university interns and securing roles such as Product Development Associates and Regulatory and Product Safety Personnel.


What is a good SP internship?

A good SP internship offers meaningful work, learning opportunities, and professional growth. You'll gain industry insights, network with professionals, and receive mentorship to enhance your confidence and employability. SP internships often lead to higher starting salaries and informed career decisions, providing a strong foundation for your future.

Can you get overseas exposure while studying perfumery & cosmetic science?

Overseas exposure helps broaden your horizons. Understanding globalisation and working with diverse cultures is important in a global city like Singapore. Perfumery and cosmetic science students and alumni have experienced international internships and exchanges, enriching their worldviews and career prospects. Students in other OST also have opportunities to represent Singapore abroad and gain international experience.


CLS-DPCS Students Sampling Perfume-v01

What are my options after attaining my Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science?

After your diploma, you can either continue your education or start your career. More than two-thirds of SP graduates go on to earn degrees at local and international universities, with SP diplomas recognised by over 150 universities worldwide. Many graduates get more than a year of advanced standing. You can also begin your career at companies like Procter & Gamble, Lubrizol, Eurofragance, Symrise Asia, Shiseido, and Coty. Both paths offer valuable opportunities to enhance your knowledge and succeed in the perfumery and cosmetic science industry.

CLS-DCSP Students Sampling Cosmetics-v01

What career options are there in perfumery and cosmetic science?

The perfumery and cosmetic science industry offers diverse career paths, from cosmetic formulator to master perfumer, which can take over 10 years to achieve. Other roles include scent evaluator, product development manager, or even opportunities in related fields like the paint industry. The industry’s focus on sustainability and evolving consumer trends makes these roles dynamic and in high demand.

Career options:

  • Assistant / Junior Fragrance Evaluator
  • Chemist
  • Formulator
  • Procurement Executive
  • Product Application Chemist
  • Product Development Specialist
  • Quality Assurance/Quality Control Laboratory Analyst
  • Regulatory and Product Safety Personnel
  • Sales/Business/Marketing Executive
  • Trainee/Assistant Perfumer

Life after my Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science

Which degrees are most common among perfumery and cosmetic science graduates of SP? 

The strong foundation provided by the Diploma in Perfumery and Cosmetic Science (DPCS) enables graduates to pursue further studies both locally and internationally, particularly in the UK. Many choose to specialise further, complementing their diploma with new areas of study that align with industry needs. 

Options for further study:

  1. Bachelor of Science (BSc)
  2. Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  3. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
  4. Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
  5. Bachelor of Technology (BTech)

These degrees are offered by universities both locally and globally. For a full list of degree options and advanced standings, visit the Advanced Standing Database.

 

How may I fast-track my education? 

If you’re preparing for university and want to make the most of your diploma time, an SP diploma can let you fast-track your education by 0.5-2 years!

  • Module Exemptions & Advanced Standing — You can skip specific university modules at local and international universities. 
  • Accelerate your education ambitions through the SP Accelerated Pathway Programmes (APP) with NUS 
    • At SP, you can speed up your education and gain a competitive edge over your peers through APP - SP's collaborations with partner universities that enable selected, high-performing SP students in pursuit of a university education to experience the benefits of a polytechnic-to-university curriculum, and the potential to complete their diploma and university degree studies within a shortened time frame. 
    •  During your time at SP, you'll study with first-year university students and your grades will be recognised in the SP Examination Grading System.

SP NUS APP
HAPPENINGS