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The University of Arizona is now offering multiple cannabis courses.
The increase in popularity along with more and more US citizens consuming cannabis has led to the development of many programs, businesses, shops, brands, certificate classes & educational courses. In Arizona cannabis is legal for both medical and recreational usage. Let us at Treed tell you about a program we have been keeping our eyes on here in Arizona.
Cannabis Jobs & Revenue
The cannabis industry has become a significant economic driver in Arizona, contributing to job creation across various sectors. From cultivation and production to retail and distribution, the state’s legal cannabis market supports thousands of jobs. In addition, ancillary businesses such as marketing, security, and legal services have also seen growth. This industry not only provides direct employment opportunities but also boosts the state’s tax revenues, further supporting local economies and infrastructure development. As the industry continues to evolve, its potential for long-term job creation remains strong.
In Arizona, The cannabis industry is a substantial source of revenue generating millions through taxation and licensing fees. In 2022 alone, cannabis sales brought in over $250 million in state and local tax revenue, contributing to essential public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, the industry attracts investment and stimulates economic activity by supporting local businesses and tourism. As the market matures, cannabis remains a reliable and growing revenue stream for the state’s economy.
Cannabis Education
Cannabis education in the United States is steadily gaining traction as the industry expands and regulations evolve weekly. In 2024 some universities and specialized institutions now offer courses and degree programs focused on cannabis cultivation, policy, and business, but the overall availability of formal education remains limited. In addition, many aspiring professionals rely on certifications, workshops, and online programs to gain knowledge in this emerging field. However, with increased demand for a well-educated workforce, there is growing momentum for more comprehensive educational offerings. As more states legalize cannabis and the industry becomes mainstream, the need for standardized and widely accessible cannabis education is becoming more critical.
From the University of Arizona Cannabis Certificate Program
About the University of Arizona Cannabis Certificate Program
The University of Arizona Continuing & Professional Education non-credit Cannabis Certificate program is designed to meet the current and future cannabis industry workforce needs and position participants for professional success in this thriving industry.
Instructors are experts in the cannabis industry, including cannabis entrepreneurs, board-certified physicians, pharmacologists, attorneys and public policy specialists.
Participants can choose to earn a Certificate in the Business of Cannabis, Cannabis Healthcare and Medicine or Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management.
- The Business of Cannabis: For anyone considering a career in cannabis or hemp, specialist knowledge is the key to unlocking the industry’s most exciting opportunities. The cannabis landscape is complex, ever-changing and unique. This certificate will provide you with a clear understanding of the cannabis industry, how it got there, and where it’s going.
- Cannabis Healthcare and Medicine: Cannabis medicine is a rapidly growing sector of the healthcare industry, yet trusted and credible information is hard to come by. For healthcare professionals seeking a career in cannabis medicine, or looking to add cannabis expertise to their existing practice, this course offers expert, in-depth instruction on the medical properties of cannabis.
- Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management: This program will prepare you to become an in-demand compliance professional within this fast-evolving cannabis industry. You will gain an understanding of the risks related to operating a commercial cannabis business. Not only that but you will learn how to mitigate them with a proven Cannabis Risk Management Framework. You will also be prepared to take the Certified Commercial Cannabis Professional (CCCP) exam through the Association of Certified Commercial Cannabis Experts (ACCCE). A one-year ACCCE membership is also included.
Each Certificate includes three eight-week courses and can be completed in about six months.
Who Should Earn a Cannabis Certificate?
The Cannabis Certificates are designed for professionals in a variety of occupations.
- The Business of Cannabis: entrepreneurs, business professionals, operators and manufacturers
- Healthcare and Medicine: healthcare providers, allied health professionals, retail professionals, or manufacturers
- Compliance and Risk Management: entrepreneurs, business professionals, operators, manufacturers, legal professionals and others who are interested in the legal, compliance and risk management aspects of the industry
Course Schedule and Format
Each non-credit Certificate starts with a Cannabis 101 course, introducing the history, culture and industry of cannabis. After completing Cannabis 101, participants complete two additional specialized courses to earn their non-credit Cannabis Certificate.
The courses are fully online and asynchronous, meaning you do not need to be online at a specific time to complete your coursework. There are weekly assignments and activities to keep you engaged and on-track to complete your Certificate. You will also develop a portfolio of case studies and projects that you can use to demonstrate your sector-specific cannabis knowledge.
You should expect to dedicate 6-10 hours per week to complete your coursework.
What Is Included in the Cannabis Certificate Program?
- Three eight-week online courses
- Completion of a portfolio of case studies and projects to demonstrate your cannabis industry knowledge
- A Certificate of Completion from University of Arizona Continuing & Professional Education upon successful completion of the program
- Access to the GF Institute Employer Network upon successful completion of the program: includes a digital badge to display your credential, as well as membership to the GF Institute, the professional organization dedicated to promoting the highest standards of professionalism, credibility, and equity in the cannabis industry
- Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management also includes a one-year Association of Certified Commercial Cannabis Experts (ACCCE) membership, which includes access to additional resources and training materials
Should we expect to see more programs & courses like these ?
In conclusion, as both the Arizona and the United States cannabis industry continues to grow, we hope to see more educational programs, schools, and certification courses become available for those looking to deepen their knowledge or enter the field. Accessible education is key to maintaining a skilled workforce and ensuring industry best practices are upheld. With specialized training and comprehensive programs, individuals can gain expertise in areas like cultivation, regulatory compliance, and business management. Furthermore expanding educational opportunities will not only benefit those pursuing careers but also support the long-term sustainability and professionalism of the cannabis industry as a whole. Seeing the University of Arizona create their own Cannabis Course is both motivating and historic. We at Treed are excited to see what the future holds for cannabis education and certification.
