The four renowned universities widely recognized in the cosmetics industry

The annual college admissions process is now in full swing, and we frequently see joyful updates flooding social media—everyone is thrilled to learn that countless students have been admitted to their dream schools. Having worked for many years in the cosmetics‑ingredients industry, I’ve often been asked: if I want my child to pursue a career in the cosmetics field, which universities should they apply to?

Next, let’s take a look at the four top institutions in the cosmetics industry, as I see them.

1. Shanghai University of Applied Technology   

In recent years, under the leadership of Professor Zhang Wanping, the school’s cosmetics program has achieved a qualitative leap. Coupled with the fact that China’s most advanced cosmetics industry is concentrated in Shanghai, the institution now enjoys strong performance across the board.

2. Beijing Technology and Business University   

This institution was among the first in China to establish a cosmetics major and shares its origins with what is now Shaanxi University of Science and Technology. The light industry sector plays a pivotal role in China, and Academician Sun Baoguo, former president of Beijing Technology and Business University, is the only academician in China specializing in fragrances.

3. Beijing University of Chemical Technology   

A 211 university, it is the institution in our country with the most comprehensive range of programs in the chemical engineering field; since cosmetics fall under the umbrella of fine chemistry, this area is also highly developed there.

4. Jiangnan University

        This university is located in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province. During the Republic of China era, it housed the Department of Light Industry at Central University and can be regarded as one of the earliest institutions in China to offer a program in light industry. In the cosmetics industry, it enjoys an almost legendary status. Over 70% of China’s cosmetic R&D engineers either graduated from Soochow University or are its direct descendants—students who have carried on its legacy. If you complete your undergraduate studies at Soochow University and then pursue graduate studies there, your future prospects are virtually limitless. And if you go on to earn a doctorate, you could practically walk into any position of influence in China’s cosmetics sector. Today, Soochow University alumni are scattered across major Chinese cosmetics companies, truly embodying boundless potential.

And that’s my summary of the four renowned top universities—does your alma mater make the list?