Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 60–64 credit hours
Delivery: Online 
Credential: Associate Degree
🎓 Program Description:
The Associate of Science in Plant-Based Healing is an interdisciplinary program designed for individuals interested in the therapeutic applications of botanicals, herbs, and plant-derived substances. It combines foundational scientific principles with traditional healing practices from around the world. Students will gain hands-on knowledge in herbal medicine, plant identification, pharmacognosy, holistic nutrition, and natural health strategies, equipping them for careers in wellness, holistic health, herbal retail, and further study in natural or integrative medicine.
🧪 Program Learning Outcomes:
Graduates of this program will be able to:
Identify and utilize medicinal plants and herbs for therapeutic purposes.
Explain human anatomy, physiology, and the body’s response to natural healing.
Prepare and apply plant-based remedies safely and ethically.
Assess client wellness needs and suggest plant-based interventions.
Evaluate scientific and cultural evidence supporting plant-based therapies.
📘 Course List & Credit Breakdown:
Course Title
Credits
General Education Courses
 
English Composition I & II
6
Introduction to Psychology or Sociology
3
Basic Human Biology or Anatomy & Physiology I
4
College Mathematics or Quantitative Reasoning
3
Environmental Science or Ecology
3
Core Plant-Based Healing Courses
 
Introduction to Plant-Based Healing
3
Herbal Materia Medica I
3
Herbal Materia Medica II
3
Botany & Plant Identification
3
Herbal Medicine Preparation and Formulation
3
Holistic Nutrition and Healing Foods
3
Traditional Healing Systems (e.g., Ayurveda, TCM, Folk)
3
Introduction to Aromatherapy and Essential Oils
3
Pathophysiology and Natural Health
3
Capstone & Electives
 
Internship or Practicum in Herbalism
3
Capstone Project: Healing with Plants
3
Elective: Medicinal Mushrooms, Cannabis Science, etc.
3
Total Credit Hours
60–64
🌿 Sample Course Description & Module Breakdown
Course Title: Introduction to Plant-Based Healing
Credits: 3
Course Description:
This foundational course explores the history, philosophy, and science behind plant-based healing practices across cultures. Students will learn basic concepts of herbal medicine, the role of plants in health and wellness, and how botanical therapies are integrated into modern complementary medicine.
Course Modules:
History & Evolution of Plant-Based Healing
Ethnobotany and ancient traditions
Indigenous knowledge systems
From folk remedies to modern herbalism
Foundations of Herbal Therapeutics
Primary plant actions: adaptogens, nervines, etc.
Safety and toxicity
Legal and ethical considerations
Plant Constituents and How They Work
Alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins
Mechanisms of action in the body
The synergy of whole plant medicine
Global Healing Systems
Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Western Herbalism
Healing energetics: hot/cold, wet/dry, yin/yang
Plant-Based Healing in Contemporary Practice
Herbalism and integrative health
Holistic wellness coaching
Case studies in chronic illness management
Course Title: Herbal Medicine Preparation and Formulation
Credits: 3
Course Description:
This hands-on course teaches students how to prepare herbal remedies in various forms, including teas, tinctures, oils, salves, syrups, and capsules. Emphasis is placed on correct dosage, safety, storage, and formulation strategies based on therapeutic goals.
Course Modules:
Introduction to Herbal Preparations
Solvent types and extraction principles
Weight-to-volume ratios
Cleanliness and preservation
Teas, Decoctions, and Infusions
Differences and preparation methods
Suitable herbs for each form
Medicinal applications
Tinctures and Extracts
Alcohol-based vs glycerin-based
Folk vs weight-based method
Labeling and dosage
Topical Applications: Salves, Oils, Poultices
Herbal oils and infused creams
Use for skin, wounds, and inflammation
Safety for sensitive skin
Capsules, Syrups, and Custom Blends
Formulating multi-herb remedies
Sugar/alcohol-free alternatives
Herbal "first-aid" kits
Course Title: Holistic Nutrition and Healing Foods
Credits: 3
Course Description:
This course explores the medicinal role of food in promoting health, with a focus on plant-based nutrition. Students learn about therapeutic diets, anti-inflammatory foods, and using food as medicine to prevent or manage chronic conditions.
Course Modules:
The Science of Food as Medicin
Plant-Based Diets for Healt
Healing Through Food: Conditions and Protocol
Superfoods, Herbs, and Functional Nutritio
Practical Meal Planning for Wellness