Cannabis Degrees: The New HIGHer Education

Not too long ago, the idea of earning a college degree related to cannabis would have sounded like the setup to a joke.

Today? Not so much.

As legal cannabis continues to grow across the United States and public perception continues to evolve, colleges and universities have begun offering programs designed specifically for students interested in the cannabis industry. From plant science and chemistry to business, policy, and medical applications, there's now a surprisingly wide range of educational opportunities available for aspiring cannabis professionals.

And considering the industry's continued growth and demand for skilled workers, it's no surprise that students are beginning to view cannabis education as a legitimate pathway to a rewarding career.

So, let's take a look at a few schools helping shape the future of cannabis education.

University of Maryland School of Pharmacy

Master of Science in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics

The University of Maryland School of Pharmacy made headlines by launching one of the first graduate programs in the United States dedicated to medical cannabis.

Its Master of Science in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program is designed for healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and others interested in developing a deeper understanding of cannabis science.

The program combines online and in-person learning and focuses on topics such as:

• Medical cannabis research
• Patient care considerations
• Regulatory policy
• Industry applications
• Evidence-based cannabis education

For professionals looking to add cannabis expertise to an existing career, this program is worth exploring.

One thing to note: if your dream involves growing cannabis plants, this program focuses more on science, healthcare, and policy than cultivation.

Northern Michigan University

Medicinal Plant Chemistry

If you're the type of person who actually enjoyed chemistry class, Northern Michigan University might have exactly what you're looking for.

Its Medicinal Plant Chemistry program blends traditional chemistry coursework with plant-based science, making it one of the most unique cannabis-related degrees currently available.

One aspect we really like about this degree is its versatility. Even if you decide the cannabis industry isn't for you, the chemistry foundation can transfer into a variety of plant science, pharmaceutical, laboratory, and research careers.

Of course, there are a couple of trade-offs:

• Out-of-state tuition can be significant.
• You'll need to make peace with Upper Peninsula winters.

Trust us—that second one is no joke.

Lake Superior State University

Cannabis Business and Cannabis Chemistry

Maybe you're more interested in launching a cannabis brand than spending your days in a laboratory.

If that's the case, Lake Superior State University deserves a look.

LSSU was one of the first universities to introduce cannabis-focused degree programs centered on business operations and industry management.

Students explore topics such as:

• Cannabis entrepreneurship
• Marketing and branding
• Regulatory compliance
• Industry economics
• Supply chain management
• Business planning

As the cannabis industry matures, companies increasingly need professionals who understand both business fundamentals and cannabis regulations. Programs like this help bridge that gap.

And if chemistry is more your thing, LSSU also offers cannabis-focused science programs.

University of Vermont

Cannabis Certificates

Not everyone wants to spend four years pursuing another degree.

The University of Vermont offers several cannabis-focused certificate programs that allow students to build specialized knowledge without committing to a full undergraduate or graduate program.

Popular options include:

• Cannabis Science and Medicine Professional Certificate
• Cannabis Plant Biology Professional Certificate

These online programs are designed for professionals working in healthcare, cultivation, dispensaries, compliance, quality control, and related fields.

Perhaps the biggest perk?

You can complete the coursework from the comfort of your own home—no commuting required.

But Wait... There's More

The schools above may be some of the better-known names in cannabis education, but they're far from the only options.

Today, colleges and universities across the country offer cannabis-related courses, minors, certificates, and specialized training programs. Subjects range from cultivation and extraction to law, policy, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and product development.

Even institutions outside the traditional university system have earned recognition within the industry.

Oaksterdam University

Often referred to as one of the pioneers of cannabis education, Oaksterdam University offers a wide range of programs covering:

• Cannabis business
• Cultivation
• Compliance
• Industry regulations
• Entrepreneurship

Many courses are available online, and several include professional certifications that can help students build practical industry knowledge.

Thinking About Enrolling?

If you're considering a cannabis-related degree, certificate, or training program, don't be afraid to reach out directly to admissions staff or program coordinators.

Ask questions.

Request sample course materials.

Learn about career outcomes.

Understand exactly what skills you'll walk away with.

A little research upfront can save a lot of time—and tuition money—later on.

The cannabis industry continues to evolve, and so do the educational opportunities surrounding it. Whether you're interested in cannabis science, cannabis business, medical cannabis, plant biology, or the future of the legal cannabis market, there's never been a better time to explore what's available.

And if you do decide to go back to school?

Don't forget to send your mom a photo on your first day.

Some traditions never go out of style.