Are you passionate about medicinal plants and thinking about turning that passion into a fulfilling career rooted in science and tradition? The BSc (Hons) Clinical Herbalism degree at Lincoln College University Centre could be the gateway to your future as a qualified herbalist.
A Unique Blend of Tradition and Modern Science
The full-time three-year honours degree offers a rare integration of herbal wisdom with rigorous scientific foundations. Students explore the “energetic” understanding of illness and healing - how medicinal plants influence the body’s imbalances - while grounding this in orthodox disciplines like Anatomy, Physiology, Pathophysiology and Nutrition.
Teaching is dynamic and holistic: theoretical study combines with reflection, intuitive learning, and hands-on practice in the on-site Complementary Medicine Clinic.
From year one, students begin clinical practice: 90 hours of supervised training in the first year, rising to over 200 in the final year and totalling 500 supervised clinical hours overall.
The course uses a “block learning” model – around eight full three-day weekends per year, alongside clinical training - making it possible to deeply immerse in the learning without interfering with weekday commitments. A part-time option is also available.
Over three years, the curriculum builds smoothly from foundational knowledge to advanced herbal therapeutics and clinical skills. In Year 1, modules cover Anatomy & Physiology for Herbal Medicine, Herbal Therapeutics 1, Pharmacy & Community Practice, and more. By Year 3, students engage in a full research project, hone their clinical skills, and learn how to run a herbal practice.
This structure makes the degree ideal not just for beginners, but also for those with some background - giving both depth and breadth to thrive as herbal practitioners, researchers, or complementary-medicine consultants.
Recognised, Accredited, Practice-Ready
The degree is validated by The Open University and accredited by the European Herbal and Traditional Practitioners Association (EHTPA) and National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH).
Successful graduates are eligible to join professional bodies such as NIMH, College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy (CPP) or Unified Register of Herbal Practitioners (URHP) - giving them access to professional networks and recognised status as clinical herbalists.
In an age where people increasingly seek natural health solutions, there’s growing demand for herbalists who are not only passionate but educated, professional and clinically grounded.
As one recent graduate put it: “I would encourage anyone interested in natural medicine to join the course. You get a wealth of experience with patients, and it’s a rewarding experience.”
Whether you dream of launching your own herbal clinic, offering bespoke remedies, working in complementary-medicine research or simply deepening your understanding of botanical healing — the BSc (Hons) Clinical Herbalism degree at Lincoln College University Centre can give students the tools, knowledge and credentials they need to thrive.
