Frequently asked questions
It is for graduates, or those with industry experience.
The unit fees are determined by the number of unit credits and the required study hours.
No, but it is easier if you have a mentor within the industry. No sensory kits are included, so you will need to provide your own raw materials for any practical exercises.
Absolutely! Many employers in the Aroma Trades sponsor their employees as part of their professional development within the organisation.
No, but you need 120 credits in total, to gain the Full Diploma.
ICATS – the predecessor to the IFEAT Academy – was created by industry expert Dr Tony Curtis to meet the aroma trades industry’s need for flexible, rigorous specialist education. For over thirty years, ICATS provided quality distance-learning materials for Continuing Professional Development across various roles, including creative, technical, flavour, fragrance, scientific, business, finance, and marketing.
The current course is written by industry experts and academics with extensive experience in the aroma trades and is regularly updated. Notable contributors include Dr Tony Curtis, David Williams, John Ayres, John Wright, and Dr Brian Lawrence. The course is accredited by IFEAT and endorsed by IFRA UK, The British Society of Perfumers, The American Society of Perfumer, The British Society of Flavourists, Perfumer & Flavorist+, and the University of Reading.
No, it’s completely flexible. You can start whenever you want but need to finish within a given timescale (two years). This timeframe may vary depending on whether you are completing the entire Full Diploma course or just one unit. Extenuating circumstances are considered for extensions, and the course is designed to accommodate work commitments.
No, but if you do not have a chemistry background we recommend you take Unit 1: Foundation Chemistry and Biochemistry for the Aroma Trades first. You may otherwise find much of the course content difficult to follow.
In the CPD route, you can choose the units that interest you for your personal or professional development. However, we recommend that anyone with little or no formal chemistry training after age 16 begin with Unit 1: Foundation Chemistry and Biochemistry for the Aroma Trades.
We do not offer practical blending courses; all our courses are theoretical. However, we encourage self-funded independent students to participate in sensory exercises at home or work using common aroma materials, which they can then discuss with their tutor.
Generally, no. The course is delivered through our bespoke learning platform, alongside custom-written learning materials and textbooks. However, there will be opportunities to attend remote blended learning sessions and events with other students and tutors.
Additionally, your tutor can arrange video or phone calls to clarify aspects of the course if necessary.
