By Brianna Wallen
News Editor
Flipping through the latest course catalog, students might be surprised to see cannabis courses alongside the lineup of core classes.
In partnership with Green Flower, a California-based company, the university is rolling out certificate programs that dive into the science, ethics and business of the cannabis industry.
“Students can enroll and take an online selfpaced class, and they have different areas they can focus in,” Senior Director of the Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning Amy Feest said.
The program not only gives students industry-recognized credentials but opens doors for them to step into one of the fastest-growing industries. With the rapid growth of the legal cannabis industry nationwide, the university is helping prepare students for careers in this evolving field through three nine week targeted courses.
The three courses include: cannabis cultivation specialist, cannabis retail specialist and cannabis extractor and product development.
According to Feest, in just six months since its launch, 25 to 30 students have already completed the program and earned their certification.
Recognizing a growing need for well-trained professionals, this course is designed to give students a head start. “You could go to an employer, and the credential actually shows all the outcomes of what you learned in the training,” Feest said, “to show the employer that you’re not just walking in knowing nothing. You’ve already understood the foundation of the industry.”
By developing a deeper understanding of both the scientific principles and ethical considerations surrounding cannabis, students not only gain a competitive edge but also play a role in reshaping the conversation around the industry.
Although recreational cannabis has been legal in the state since 2021, stigma and misconceptions about the drug still persist.
Feest said that expanding education is the key to challenging those stereotypes.
“I think by becoming more educated, you can speak with more knowledge and help to break down some of those barriers,” Feest said.
Other students noted that the programs have the potential to bring about a new generation of business owners who prioritize safety and responsibility in the cannabis industry.
Sociology major Amayia Roach, a senior, said that expanding these courses could help take dangerous products off the market while also creating more job opportunities.
“This program helps people know how to properly grow weed without putting any harmful chemicals and drugs in it,” Roach said. Roach added that increasing recognition of these certificates can provide consumers with a sense of comfort and confidence while purchasing products.
“You know that the person who you’re getting marijuana from knows what they’re doing and won’t put you in the hospital,” Roach said.
While the cannabis certificates provide valuable training, Feest emphasized that they are more effective when complimenting a student’s degree.
“Your degree is really the foundation that will open doors for you,” Feest said. “But, the more you can set yourself apart from other students who are also out there getting degrees, the better you are going to be in the job market.”
For those who are interested, visit https://www.southernct.edu/owll/cannabis.
Classes start at the beginning of every month.
Students can also email Feest @feesta1@southernct.edu
