RBGE Diploma in Herbology
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RBGE roots were embedded in the ancient practices of herbal medicine when it was founded as a Physic Garden in the late 17th Century. Now, over three hundred years later, our Diploma in Herbology rekindles that holistic tradition.
Herbology is an innovative programme of study that draws together several connected branches of botanical science to clearly demonstrate the remarkable therapeutic potential of plants and the practical applications of this knowledge.
The course aims are to:
- Explore and explain the world of herbs
- Encourage the study of medicinal plants
- Share understanding of the earth’s herbal lore
- Enrich awareness of and involvement with the natural world
- Nurture the creative use of healing botanicals
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Study options:
- ATTENDED
- ONLINE with study weekends
Attended Course Handbook (word version)
- ATTENDED
Frequently asked questions
The course is divided into 5 subject areas. Each includes practical and theoretical topics, with sessions delivered by lecturers from RBGE as well as visiting Herbalists, Holistic and Organic Practitioners, Botanists and Ethnobotanists from around the world. The Subjects covered are: Phytology, Green Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Physic Garden Horticulture, Ethnomedica and Herbal Ecology.
RBGE Diploma in Herbology is available as an attended course or online with attended study weekends.
Attended course: Classes are taught on Tuesdays from September to June. Several hours of home (self-directed) study time will be required each week. From June students will research and write their dissertation for submission the following January.
Online with study weekends: This programme comprises a blend of online study and study sessions held here at RBGE. The duration is 2 years.
No formal qualifications or prior experience are needed to enrol on this course, just a keen interest and enthusiasm for the growing and use of plants for medicinal purposes, as well as a willingness to dedicate time and effort.
Please note that this course does not qualify you to practice as a medical herbalist.
Study time per week will vary, but will most likely be in the region of 5-7 hours – which should be adequate for assignments and revisionary work to be completed.
We encourage everyone to make the most of the forums on the course. These provide a way for students to talk to one another and to tutors and ask each other questions. There is also a facility where you can contact your tutor directly and privately. Technical help is only an email away (Mon-Fri).
Attended Course: Fees for this course are £4,400
Online with study weekends: Fees for this course are £3,000 which includes the study weekends (travel and accommodation are extra).
Fees should be paid in full by the start of the course. Any additional costs to be borne by students will be listed in the Handbook.
Attended Course
Applications for the 2024 intake will open on Monday 22nd April. For full details and how to apply please see the course handbook.
Online Course
If you would like to receive details of the next course when they become available, please complete the enquiry form.
Attended Course
Applications for the 2024 intake will open on Monday 22nd April. For full details and how to apply please see the course handbook.
Online Course
If you would like to receive details of the next course when they become available, please complete the enquiry form.
RBGE Diploma in Herbology Open Evening
Booking Essential - Use form below
Venue: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Date: Wednesday 26th June 2024
Time: 6pm - 8pm
Explore the wonders of the RBGE Diploma in Herbology at our first-ever course open evening. On the night, you’ll get a glimpse of the creative and inspiring work of our current students. Marvel at their beautiful Pharmacopoeias, complete with remedies, and enjoy the delightful anecdotes from their Physic Garden Diaries.
You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the story of our unique Herbology programme as you meet our passionate tutors and tour our facilities including our Herbology classroom and dedicated herb bed plots, nestled in the heart of the Demonstration Garden.
Discover the incredible opportunities our herbology diploma offers and feel a touch of the magic it brings to us all.
Please note: This event is by invitation only. The booking form is now closed but if you are interested please call 0131 248 2937.