Science of Essentials/Aromatherapy Certification Course Fall 2025

Aromatherapy Certification Course Fall 2025

  • Course

This course is now full.

My next aromatherapy certification course will be opening for enrollment in January 2026. If interested, join the waitlist below.

Qualify to become a NAHA Certified Level 1 Aromatherapist with this comprehensive course. Expand your knowledge and gain a thorough understanding of the science of essential oils and how to use them personally and professionally.

Interested in becoming a Certified Aromatherapist?

Are you searching for information you can trust on how to use essential oils confidently?
Would you like to feel empowered to use aromatherapy safely and effectively for yourself, family, friends and clients?

Through this interactive, evidence-based, comprehensive course I will be providing you with the highest-quality aromatherapy education so you can feel 100% confident using essential oils safely to promote health and healing. After completion of this course, you will qualify to become a Level 1 Certified Aromatherapist through the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy and receive a certificate from The School For Aromatic Studies which is one of the leading aromatherapy schools in the world.

I only teach two aromatherapy certification courses a year. My next course will be opening for enrollment in January 2026. If interested, join the waitlist below.

You will learn:

  • A clear understanding of how and why essential oils work to support the mind and body. 

  • The history of aromatherapy and its modern development in evidence-based research.

  • The origins and purpose of essential oils within the plant.

  • How essential oils are produced and key elements in identifying quality. 

  • The science behind essential oils, including how the chemistry of an essential oil supports its therapeutic properties. 

  • All about the amazing sense of smell and how it can transform emotions and well-being.

  • How to formulate and blend essential oils to create a variety of aromatherapy-based products.

  • A common-sense approach to safety with essential oils.

  • All about 26 essential oils, including Latin binomial, safety information for each oil, plus the therapeutic and/or energetic properties of each individual essential oil.

Who is this course for?


Everyone! This class is for anyone who wants to further expand their passion and knowledge in aromatherapy!

  • The Aromatherapy Entrepreneur who would like to develop or expand their existing business.
  • Massage Therapists and Estheticians who would like to add aromatherapy into their practice.
  • Registered Nurses and healthcare workers who wish to expand their knowledge in aromatherapy and holistic health modalities.
  • Individuals who would like to be empowered to care for themselves, their family and friends with natural plant-based remedies.
  • Herbalists interested in integrating essential oils into their herbal practice and formulations.
  • Brand wellness advocates and representatives who would like to deepen their knowledge while selling a line of essential oils.

What's included

  • An online 15-week Foundations Level 1 Aromatherapy Certification Program

  • Weekly live streaming classes with students from all over the world. (If you are unable to attend live, they will be recorded and available for you in the online platform.)

  • Unlimited lifetime access to all course materials and video content

  • A hardcopy and digital copy of the comprehensive foundation course manual

  • Downloadable and printable worksheets and guides

  • In-depth education on 26 commonly used essential oil monographs, the science of aromatherapy, aromatic chemistry, emotions, skin care and more!

  • Confidence in learning through 10 course modules and fun activities to reinforce learning.

  • Dozens of safe and effective aromatherapy recipes and blends to use when creating products.

  • Flexibility to learn through the course on your own time anywhere in the world.

AND

  • Free access to any online classes and webinars I personally teach for the duration of 2025.

  • A hardcopy of the comprehensive foundation course manual, methods of application manual and essential oil monograph manual.

  • A hardcopy easy-to-use guide with how to make your own aromatherapy products.

Online Aromatherapy Certification

Foundations Level 1 Course Outline

MODULE ONE

Introduction

Learn about the incredible history of aromatherapy and its modern development. Learn how wellness has changed in recent years and why the holistic framework of aromatherapy is thriving to benefit the mental, physical and spiritual health.

MODULE TWO

Plants and Essential Oils

In this module, you will learn about the biological role essential oils play within plants. Next, you will earn how essential oils are made and the differences between an essential oil, absolute and CO2 extract. Learn key elements in identifying quality of an essential oil. Lastly, we will discuss the importance of safety while using essential oils.

MODULE THREE

Exploring 24 Essential Oils

In this module, you will be introduced to 24 essential oil monographs which will include learning the Latin binomial, safety information for each oil, plus the therapeutic and/or energetic properties of each individual essential oil.

Essential oil monographs: Roman Chamomile, Clary sage, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Helichrysum, Juniper berry, Laurel, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Mandarin / Tangerine, Sweet Orange, Patchouli, Peppermint, Pine, Scots, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang. Sprout: Insight About Blending

MODULE FOUR

Essential Phytochemistry

Chemistry time! Learn all about the chemistry of essential oils in a way that won't overwhelm you. You will become more aware of the general therapeutic actions and indications of each chemical family within essential oils.

MODULE FIVE

Aromatherapy and the Skin

Learn all about the body's largest organ: the skin! Learn the basic structure of the skin, its role in promoting overall health, and how we can further enhance and support skin health and healing.  In this module, you will be introduced to carrier oils, hydrosols and other plant-based ingredients that enhance the therapeutic benefits of essential oils.  Learn about common skin conditions and ways aromatherapy can help support them.

MODULE SIX

Our Sense of Smell

My personal favorite topic to teach about!! The sense of smell! In this module you will learn all about the anatomy of our olfactory system and how it influences our emotion and well-being.  Learn how to use essential oils to help transform unpleasant emotions and reduce the damaging effects of stress on the mind and body.

MODULE SEVEN

Methods of Application

In this module, you will learn how to formulate, blend and create multiple aromatherapy-based products including: body and facial oils, creams, toners, aromatic baths, gels, salves, spritzers and scrubs. You will also make blends for inhalation and diffusion to support the mind and body. Dilution guides are provided to help support your learning and build confidence in using essential oils safely.

MODULE EIGHT

Blending and Consultations

In this module, you will be introduced to the Aromatic Studies approach to blending essential oils.  Learn the three main parts that make up a synergy and how to select the appropriate essential oils and dilution in a blend. Learn how to perform an Aromatherapy consultation and create a holistic wellness plan.

MODULE NINE

Aromatics in Health

In this module, you will learn how to effectively use essential oils and different methods of application for a wide range of health imbalances. System covered include: The Respiratory System, The Digestive System, The Musculoskeletal System, Women’s Health, The Circulatory System, and Aromatherapy for Children. 

MODULE TEN

The Business of Aromatherapy

Build your vision for how you will use essentials oils in your life personally and professionally! In this module, I will help guide you through the Business of Aromatherapy and provide you with valuable resources for your journey as an aromatherapy entrepeneur.

MODULE ELEVEN

Completion

In the final module, you will be guided on how to complete program with your case studies and of course, the final exam to receive your Certification as an Aromatherapist!

Early Bird Pricing- Tuition: $795

FALL CLASS ENROLLMENT IS NOW CLOSED! MY NEXT CLASS WILL BE IN JANUARY 2026.
Payments accepted as a one-time payment or 4 monthly payments.


*Course includes hardcopy and digital copies of course textbooks.

Additional class supplies not included.
For a complete listing of class supply list click below.
Aromatherapy Course Supply List.pdf 140.9 KB

What you will be able to do:

Graduates of the School for Aromatic Studies Foundation of Aromatherapy Certification Program have a wide range of potential careers to explore including:

  • Aromatherapy practitioner
  • Aromatherapy entrepreneur
  • Aromatherapy writer/blogger
  • Spa consultant/practitioner
  • Retail specialist
  • Aromatherapy educator
  • Integrative healthcare practitioner
  • Product designer
  • Hospice/Palliative care practitioner

About Your Instructor

Holly Brandenberger

If you're ready to feel empowered and confident around essential oils & holistic health then you're in the right place!

I'm Holly, Registered Nurse and Certified Aromatherapist living near Seattle, Washington on my family farm. I received my Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in 2006 from Marquette University and have worked in a variety of nursing specialties including trauma,burns, post-surgical, endoscopy and hospital administration. I discovered aromatherapy in 2015 and loved how aromatherapy can strengthen the mind-body connection and initiate a relaxation response.  I became certified through the School for Aromatic Studies and have been expanding my education ever since through specialized courses in utilizing aromatics for stress, trauma, and emotional wellbeing. I am also Certified in Aromapsychology.

I am the founder of Science of Essentials, an online resource that provides education worldwide regarding aromatherapy and holistic health. I currently am working with hospital systems bringing aromatherapy to the bedside to help support patients. My sincerest desire is to bless others with the knowledge I have gained through combining my education in modern medicine and holistic health.

The framework of aromatherapy looks at the whole person with the goal of attaining optimal physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health; not just the absence of disease.

Frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.

Is this course online?

Yes. The Foundations of Aromatherapy certification program is an online 15-week course designed in cohort learning to help keep you inspired and motivated to complete your certification by mid-December, just in time for the holidays.

With that said, we understand that "life happens" and all live streamed classes will be recorded for you to watch when it is convenient for you. You can also complete the course on your own time and based upon your own schedule and goals.

Online learning is makes learning easy and accessible. With online education you can take your course with you on any device you choose. Download pdf files to read later, watch video content, or view course content on your device.


Are there prerequisites?

No. This course is open to everyone with an interest in deepening their knowledge of aromatherapy.

When will the live streaming classes be?

This course officially starts the week of September 1st, 2025.

Starting September 3rd, the live streaming classes will take place every Wednesday from 11:00-1:00pm PST.  There will be an optional 30-minute Q&A session at the end of every class. The last live streaming class will take place on December 10th.

If you are unable to attend live, all classes will be recorded and available for you to watch on the online platform. All classes and recordings do have subtitles.

*If there is a popular request for me to host further classes to answer questions or dive deeper into a specific topic or host a class on a weekend, I am flexible, and my greatest desire is to help you further your knowledge and passion for aromatherapy.

How long do I have to complete the program?

Since this is a cohort learning program, our goal is to have you complete the program by January 1st.  However, you are free to take as long as you need!

Does this course offer CE hours for massage therapists?

Yes. This course offers 40 CE hours through the NCBTMB.

How do I complete my certification?

To receive your certification for Foundations of Aromatherapy, you will need to complete module quizzes, a final exam and 5 case studies on friends, family, existing clients, and/or yourself. You will learn more details on how to do this inside the course!

What makes your program different from the others?

First off, you have ME as your instructor! And secondly, you are gaining knowledge through The School for Aromatic Studies which is one of the leading schools in the world. 

We are often asked, What makes our school unique? I believe one of the most unique features is our balanced, progressive & inspiring education that leads to the cultivation of a new generation of aromatherapists to emerge and succeed!

What will a typical week look like in this course?

We will be taking this course week by week, module by module, to fully allow you to immerse yourself in the lessons and learning without feeling overwhelmed.

Every week, we will be learning through a new module (some modules we will take a few weeks to cover),and diving deep into 2-3 essential oil monographs.

Besides the weekly 2 hour weekly live streaming classes (will be recorded if you can't attend live), you will be able to read through the module content in your hardcopy Foundations of Aromatherapy Manual and to expand your knowledge and complete a simple quiz online. (Don't worry! These are simple quizzes focusing on main ideas is just to help enhance your learning). Downloadable worksheets and guides will also be provided for your own personal use and reference. 

In addition, each week you will be making a new aromatherapy product to use personally or share with family and friends.  You will be making a variety of products such as rollers, inhalers, salves, body butters, toners, scrubs and more!

Overall, my sincerest desire is help ignite your passion for aromatherapy and not to overwhelm you with coursework. We will do this through fun, interactive classes and activities.

What is included?

  • Access to weekly live streaming classes with students all over the world

  • Unlimited lifetime access to all course materials and video content

  • A hardcopy of the comprehensive foundation course manual, methods of application manual and essential oil monograph manual. (This will be mailed to you shortly after enrollment.)

  • Bonus hardcopy of the product recipe guide

  • Downloadable and printable worksheets and guides

  • Dozens of safe and effective aromatherapy recipes and blends to use when creating products

  • In-depth education on 26 commonly used essential oil monographs, the science of aromatherapy, aromatic chemistry, emotions, skin care and more!

  • Free access to any online classes and webinars I personally teach for the duration of 2025

How do I gain free access to your other classes and webinars this year?

All students in the program will also gain free access to any additional classes and webinars I teach in the duration of 2024. (I typically host 1-2 classes a month).  After enrollment, you will receive an email with information on how to gain access to additional classes to help expand your knowledge on a variety of aromatherapy and holistic health topics.

What supplies are included?

Here is the Foundations of Aromatherapy Supply list.

Aromatherapy Course Supply List.pdf 140.9 KB

Did you say I have access for life?

Yes, once you register for an online course, it is yours for life! Live streamed classes and lecture support materials will be updated weekly throughout the 14-week program.

Are you approved through a professional aromatherapy organization?

Yes, I am an instructor through The School for Aromatic Studies. We are an approved school through the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. We are also approved for massage CE hours through the NCBTMB.



Can I join the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA)?

Yes! Upon completion of the Foundations of Aromatherapy Certificate program, you will be able to join as a Level 1 Certified Aromatherapist.

Can I sign up if I don't live in the United States?

Yes! Students from all over the world are welcome to take this course. All course material is in English. In the past, we have had students join from over 30 different countries all over the world. All live classes and recordings do have subtitles.