Kent State University has introduced four new cannabis-related certificate programs, focusing on business, health care, compliance, and agriculture.
In collaboration with Green Flower, a California-based company known for cannabis training and education, the university is offering these programs.
Peggy Shadduck, the vice president for regional campuses at Kent State, highlighted the significance of these online certificate programs in providing specialized knowledge and skills related to the cannabis industry.
“Professionals trained in this field are essential for the growing number of jobs currently and in the future,” added Shadduck.
A Growing Industry
With the approval of Issue 2 in November, Ohio joined other states in legalizing the adult use of cannabis.
Statistics from Ohio’s Medical Marijuana Control Program indicate over 400,000 cannabis patients have registered since its inception in late 2018, with more than 179,000 active patients reported recently.
The Vangst 2023 Jobs Report shows a 24% growth in Ohio’s legal medical cannabis industry in 2023, resulting in over 1,300 new jobs.
Certificate Details
The first cannabis-related classes at Kent State commenced this month.
The four non-credit certificate programs are online and asynchronous, taking about six months to complete. They include:
- A Cannabis Healthcare and Medicine Certificate, aimed at health care and retail professionals seeking in-depth knowledge about cannabis as medicine.
- A Cannabis Agriculture and Horticulture Certificate, designed for prospective cultivators, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical plant-growing experience.
- A Business of Cannabis Certificate, offering insights into the industry’s retail, marketing, and real estate aspects.
- A Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management Certificate, focused on understanding cannabis regulations, licensing, and security protocols.
Upon completion, students receive a digital certificate, badge, and access to an employer network with career events and job postings. Each program costs $2,950, with enrollment available at cannabiseducation.kent.edu.
Simplifying a Complicated Industry
Daniel Kalef from Green Flower mentioned the strong interest in these programs, with over 40 students enrolled since their recent launch. He emphasized the importance of understanding the varied regulations in the cannabis industry due to its federal illegality.
The certificates aim to educate various target audiences, including medical and retail professionals, to enhance their knowledge in handling cannabis products.
Kalef expects continued growth in the cannabis industry, with a significant workforce already involved nationwide.
