Case Study

I had originally started studying Bio-Medical Science but realised it wasn’t for me and once I saw the new Cosmetic Science BSc degree I immediately applied and haven’t looked back.

It was challenging in the first year, but all worth it. In my final year, I secured the placement at Bria to get that practical experience and they asked me to come back, which worked out so well.

I’m delighted to have secured a job with Bria while still finishing my degree, it’s great to combine all the practical experience with the theory. I loved science as well as having an interest in skincare and make-up, as someone who has suffered sensitive skin all my life, so combining the two at Sunderland was the perfect fit for me.

I have literally been involved in everything from taking orders over the phone, and packaging, to making balms and creams that we sell globally. I was helping to make the recipes from day one and I’m in the process of formulating an organic shampoo.

I think it’s really helped the company having someone from a scientific background on site, offering the knowledge I have learned during my University course.

I would 100 per cent recommend Sunderland to anyone thinking about university. The facilities are first class and the academics are very supportive. Make sure you definitely sign up for a placement, especially in the cosmetics industry, as you need to leave with an experience that helps you stand out when applying for jobs.

I would also recommend the Cosmetic Science course as there are so many doors it can open – from quality control to manufacturing, product development to marketing, there are just so many different things that you can do with it."

Published 11 June 2019