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
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 course with occasional attended study weekends.
Attended course: Classes are taught over 30 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 £4,700
Online Course: Fees for this course are £3,700 (travel and accommodation are not included).
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
The next attended course is due to start in September 2025. Further information on the term dates can be found in the applicants' handbook.
Online Course
The next attended course is due to start in September 2025. Further information on the term dates can be found in the applicants' handbook.
Attended Course
To apply for this course, please complete the online application form. Applications will open on Friday 25th April 2025.
Online Course
To apply for this course, please complete the online application form. Applications will open on Friday 25th April 2025.
word copies of the course handbooks are available to download here:
