Olay launches Introduction to Cosmetic Science course on Coursera

OLAY is releasing a new Coursera Specialisation titled Introduction to Cosmetic Science and Ingredients. This is OLAY's inaugural Specialisation on our platform, and it is intended to educate students on the principles of skincare while also encouraging more students, particularly women and women of colour, to pursue careers in cosmetic science. 

Coursera’s relationship with OLAY comes at a pivotal time for STEM careers. As of 2023, women continue to be underrepresented in STEM, accounting for slightly more than one-quarter of the total. The new beauty science Specialisation is the first in a series of STEM Specialisations from OLAY, reflecting the company's goal to double the number of women in STEM and triple the number of women of colour in STEM by 2030.

To support this initiative, OLAY and Coursera will grant $2 million in scholarships for the course over three years to anyone interested in cosmetic science. From 2024 to 2026, 5,000 people will receive a one-year membership to Coursera Plus, which comprises over 6,900 courses, entry-level Professional Certificates, and hands-on projects that teach job-relevant business, technology, and data science skills. 

The new Specialisation is taught by OLAY's in-house cosmetic experts, including Dr Rolanda Wilkerson, who has vast experience investigating innovative skin and hair science.

By the end of the four-course program,  learners will be able to understand:

• Skin physiology and how to create a model of the skin
• Skincare, skin concerns, and how to identify effective skincare ingredients
• Fundamental approaches and best practices to create innovative and sustainable cosmetic formulations
• Best practices and ways to implement cosmetic quality control and safety methods