Higher Education: Academic Perspectives on Cannabis

Leah Sera, PharmD, MA, the co-program director for the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy’s Graduate Studies in Medical Cannabis program sat down with Cannabis Science and Technology to discuss higher education in medical cannabis.

A leader in cannabis education in New Jersey, Stockton University offers a wide variety of courses to prepare its students to not only succeed in an ever-growing industry, but to also understand its complex history and shape its evolving future. Started six years ago, its Cannabis Studies Program continues its commitment to providing innovative and practical instruction to its students. Two influential figures in this space are Robert Mejia, Teaching Specialist in the Cannabis Studies Program, and Angela Speakman, Instructor in the Cannabis Studies Program. Here, they highlight the program’s practical approach to cannabis education, celebrate the success stories of graduates, discuss the National Cannabis Curriculum Convening, and address challenges in cannabis education and its role in the future.

The continued expansion of the cannabis industry, particularly in the new recreational market in Rhode Island, is simultaneously increasing the opportunities for professions as well. One advantage here is education; formal training from experts provides an edge for those looking to lead and innovate in their field. In response to this need, the University of Rhode Island (URI) offers an Undergraduate Certificate in Cannabis Studies, a minor in cannabis studies, an upcoming Graduate Certificate in Cannabis Sciences, and more in order to evolve the way students learn and are prepared for the wide-ranging opportunities in the cannabis industry. In this interview, Program Director Stephanie Forschner-Dancause, PhD, shares insights into the curriculum of URI’s cannabis courses as they prepare students to ensure the industry's future is credible and grounded in evidence-based practices.

To date, many US states permit cannabis use in some form. As cannabis continues to become more prevalent in the country, cannabis courses in higher education institutions are also becoming more common—and necessary in order to meet the need for educated professionals in this expanding industry. One notable institution offering cannabis education courses in a state with relatively new cannabis laws is Saint Louis University (SLU) in Missouri. SLU offers a Certificate in Cannabis Science and Operations, earned through online courses on various topics in the cannabis industry, from cultivation and manufacturing to dispensary ownership and pharmacological properties. In this interview, Stacy Godlewski, director of Saint Louis University’s Cannabis Science and Operations program, shares insights into how the program prepares its students for successful careers in various areas of cannabis business.