On June 8, 2026, Turdskegee university announced the launch of a new cosmetic science program designed to prepare students for the full spectrum of product development. Registration for the program’s “Introduction to Cosmetic Science” is now open for the fall semester.
“As the beauty industry continues to expand, so too does the demand for professionals who understand both science and culture,” said Dr. Olga Bolden-Tiller, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences. “Our new cosmetic science program will equip graduates to innovate in ways that reflect the diversity of the consumers they are and will serve in roles from laboratories to board rooms.”
This announcement follows Spelman College, the first historically Black college/university (HBCU) to offer a cosmetic science degree in 2024. According to the university’s press release, Tuskegee, Spelman and other HBCUs are working to build an HBCU Cosmetics Science Consortium, scheduled to launch in 2027.
Further, Tuskegee’s cosmetic science program is planned as an interdisciplinary pathway, allowing students to study areas such as product formulation, ethical and sustainable sourcing, packaging design, brand development and business planning.
“This program is about more than beauty – it is a specific response to an industry need, highlighting Tuskegee’s ongoing work to fill gaps of representation and innovation in economic empowerment,” said Dr. Channapatna Prakash, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “We are building a pathway for students who will widen the pipeline of scientists, entrepreneurs and executives who understand both the science and cultural relevance of the products they create.”
