The Cannabis Studies Certificate provides an interdisciplinary education into the historical, cultural, economic, political, legal, and spiritual dimensions of cannabis, with a focus on the cultivation of cannabis and its commercial, medical, and therapeutic development and use. This 12-credit certificate provides students with an introduction to the growing arena of cannabis industries, enterprises, and the field of cannabis studies.
SOC 2560: Cannabis, Culture, & ConsciousnessThis interdisciplinary course combines historical, sociological, cross-cultural, and philosophical perspectives on cannabis and its role and meaning in human cultures, societies, and individuals. The course will also explore the political, legal, civil, and criminal justice dimensions of cannabis. Applying historical, anthropological, sociological, and philosophical analyses of cannabis in multiple societies and across different cultural and historical settings will provide students with a broad, deep, and rich understanding of this important and often misunderstood and controversial plant. 3 cr |
BUS 2560: Canna-BusinessWith the increasing acceptance of cannabis in American society and elsewhere, including hemp for industrial purposes, the therapeutic uses of cannabis (e.g. CBD), and the increasing legalization of medical and recreational cannabis, the economic forecast for cannabis and hemp products and services is projected to be in the billions of dollars. The multi-faceted cannabis industry is expected to create a million jobs nationally in the next few years. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the economic and business aspects of the cannabis industry, including entrepreneurial, business management, marketing/advertising, tax/regulation, accounting, and investing dimensions. 3 cr |
PHI 2560: Cannabis, Cultivation, and CareThis course introduces students to the agroecological and medicinal horizons of cannabis cultivation. Through the philosophical lens of “care-ethics,” students will explore these horizons by examining: 1) the world history of cannabis cultivation and contemporary horticultural techniques/methods; 2) the history of medicinal cannabis and contemporary therapies; 3) policy issues surrounding the cultivation, processing and sales of cannabis products; 4) the values of sustainability and stewardship that cannabis cultivation fosters in the face of looming environmental issues and climate change. 3 cr |
Internship (SOC 4810: Internship in Sociology; BUS 4810: Internship in Business; PHI 3810: Internship in Philosophy)An Internship in an area of cannabis studies in one of the academic programs listed above. Students will complete 50 hours of work, which will culminate with a personal presentation, in-person or digital recording of their internship experience. 3 cr |
Federal financial aid cannot be used to cover the cost of any cannabis course. Federal financial aid can be applied toward a 12 credit (full-time) course load not including cannabis courses.
For example, if a student is registered for at least 15 credits with three credits being a cannabis course, the student will still be eligible for federal financial aid as the remaining 12+ credits load is considered full-time. It is important to note that students, who drop below 15 credits and remain enrolled in a cannabis course, will be billed directly for the cannabis course credits.