The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Natural Products and Herbal Medicine (PgD Natural Products and Herbal Medicine) is a prestigious qualification tailored for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in herbal medicine, phytotherapy, and natural product research. Designed for learners who wish to enhance their career prospects, broaden their knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), this diploma provides advanced insight into the science and application of natural products in healthcare.
This comprehensive programme equips learners with critical skills in botanical identification, phytochemical analysis, clinical applications of herbal therapies, and evidence-based practices. It also explores regulatory frameworks, ethical considerations, and the integration of herbal medicine into modern healthcare systems. By completing this course, learners will gain the confidence to contribute to innovation, patient care, and research in the rapidly growing field of natural and herbal medicine.
Centres delivering this qualification must demonstrate the highest standards of academic quality and operational excellence. They are required to employ competent and qualified staff, provide access to modern learning facilities, and supply all essential materials and resources to ensure effective training and learner success. With its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on practical and research-based learning, this diploma prepares learners to lead in professional, academic, and clinical settings while promoting safe and evidence-based use of natural products.
This Level 7 diploma offers an ideal pathway for learners committed to advancing their expertise and making a meaningful impact in herbal medicine and natural product development.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Natural Products and Herbal Medicine (PgD Natural Products and Herbal Medicine):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Natural Products and Herbal Medicine (PgD Natural Products and Herbal Medicine), offers 120 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 1200 hours, including 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC30120- 1 | Advanced Botany and Phytochemistry of Medicinal Plants | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30120-2 | Pharmacognosy and Quality Control of Herbal Products | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30120-3 | Clinical Applications of Herbal Medicine | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30120-4 | Toxicology, Safety, and Regulatory Frameworks in Herbal Use | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30120-5 | Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Herbal Medicine | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30120-6 | Innovation and Commercialisation of Natural Products | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Natural Products and Herbal Medicine (PgD Natural Products and Herbal Medicine):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background:
- A relevant Level 6 qualification (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in pharmacy, herbal medicine, pharmacognosy, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline is required.
- Alternatively, learners with equivalent professional qualifications or substantial experience in herbal or natural product practice may be considered.
Professional Experience:
- While prior professional experience in pharmacy, herbal medicine, or natural product research is preferred, learners with strong academic backgrounds and a commitment to professional development may also apply.
Language Proficiency:
- As the course is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following:
- An IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, or
- Proof of previous study or professional work in an English-speaking environment.
Commitment to CPD:
- Applicants must show a genuine commitment to CPD, demonstrating motivation to enhance their expertise in herbal medicine and natural product innovation.
Access to Required Resources:
- Learners must have reliable internet access, a suitable device for online learning, and access to academic resources such as research journals, libraries, or relevant software to successfully complete assignments and projects.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Natural Products and Herbal Medicine (PgD Natural Products and Herbal Medicine):
Advanced Botany and Phytochemistry of Medicinal Plants
- Analyse plant anatomy, physiology, and taxonomy relevant to herbal medicine
- Evaluate phytochemical compounds and their pharmacological effects
- Correlate plant chemistry with therapeutic applications in natural medicine
- Apply botanical knowledge to identify and classify medicinal plants accurately
Pharmacognosy and Quality Control of Herbal Products
- Assess the origin, preparation, and characteristics of crude herbal drugs
- Apply quality control methods to ensure the safety and efficacy of herbal products
- Use advanced analytical techniques to evaluate herbal formulations
- Interpret pharmacognostic standards for product development and regulation
Clinical Applications of Herbal Medicine
- Integrate herbal treatments into evidence-based clinical practice
- Evaluate therapeutic benefits and safety profiles of herbal remedies for specific conditions
- Develop treatment protocols using herbal medicine for patient care
- Critically assess clinical case studies to support best practices in herbal therapy
Toxicology, Safety, and Regulatory Frameworks in Herbal Use
- Identify potential toxicities and herb-drug interactions in clinical contexts
- Apply risk assessment strategies to ensure safe use of herbal products
- Evaluate international regulatory frameworks governing herbal medicine
- Recommend best practices for ethical and compliant use of natural products
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Herbal Medicine
- Apply qualitative and quantitative research methods in natural product studies
- Critically appraise scientific literature to inform herbal medicine practice
- Design research proposals addressing key issues in herbal medicine
- Analyse and interpret data to support evidence-based recommendations
Innovation and Commercialisation of Natural Products
- Develop strategies for product innovation and entrepreneurship in herbal medicine
- Assess intellectual property considerations for natural product development
- Conduct market analysis and feasibility studies for herbal products
- Apply sustainable and ethical practices in sourcing and commercialising herbal resources
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Natural Products and Herbal Medicine is ideal for professionals eager to advance their expertise in herbal medicine, phytochemistry, and the commercialisation of natural products. This advanced qualification is designed for learners seeking to enhance their career prospects, contribute to evidence-based herbal practices, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It supports professionals aiming for leadership roles in healthcare, research, or the natural products industry.
Practising Pharmacists and Herbal Medicine Specialists
- Perfect for pharmacists or herbal medicine practitioners looking to broaden their knowledge of natural products and clinical applications
- Suitable for those seeking to integrate herbal therapies safely and effectively into modern healthcare settings
Healthcare and Allied Health Professionals
- Designed for doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and allied health professionals wishing to incorporate herbal and natural products into patient care
- Ideal for healthcare providers aiming to improve interdisciplinary approaches to treatment and wellness
Academic and Research Professionals
- Relevant for lecturers, scholars, and researchers focused on natural product development or phytotherapy
- Beneficial for individuals planning to publish research or lead advanced studies in herbal medicine
Pharmaceutical Industry and Regulatory Professionals
- Tailored for professionals in pharmaceutical companies, regulatory affairs, or product development seeking expertise in herbal product standards and safety
- Supports individuals involved in innovation, quality control, or herbal medicine compliance
Lifelong Learners and CPD Enthusiasts
- Perfect for learners committed to lifelong learning and professional growth in herbal medicine and natural product innovation
- Suitable for those planning further study, research, or leadership roles within the herbal and natural products sectors
Centres offering this qualification must maintain exceptional standards to ensure high-quality training and outstanding learner outcomes. To deliver the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Natural Products and Herbal Medicine, institutions are expected to provide experienced educators, robust learning facilities, and access to comprehensive resources. Meeting these requirements ensures that learners receive rigorous academic instruction, practical knowledge, and professional support to succeed in herbal medicine and natural product research.
Qualified and Experienced Teaching Staff
- Centres must employ trainers and assessors with postgraduate qualifications in herbal medicine, natural products, pharmacognosy, or related fields.
- Staff should possess current professional or academic experience to deliver up-to-date, industry-relevant content.
Comprehensive Learning Facilities and Resources
- Provide modern classrooms or online platforms equipped with audio-visual technology and reliable internet access.
- Ensure learners have access to research journals, botanical libraries, laboratory equipment, and analytical tools for hands-on learning and research activities.
Robust Quality Assurance and Assessment Systems
- Implement transparent, fair, and consistent assessment procedures in line with QualCert standards.
- Conduct regular internal and external reviews to ensure course quality, learner satisfaction, and compliance with academic guidelines.
Learner Support and Administrative Processes
- Offer academic guidance, research mentoring, and technical support to assist learners throughout the programme.
- Maintain efficient enrolment systems, records management, and feedback channels to support smooth course delivery.
Compliance with Ethical and Regulatory Standards
- Adhere to local and international regulations, safeguarding policies, and data protection laws.
- Promote inclusive practices, equal opportunities, and ethical delivery in all aspects of programme management.