Where to Get a Degree for a Career in the Marijuana Industry
The marijuana industry's rapid growth has created a need for skilled professionals across various sectors. As the industry expands, universities and colleges are developing specialized programs to meet this demand.
Marijuana plants growing in dense cluster
Professional Opportunities
The cannabis industry is projected to reach $75 billion by 2030, creating high-paying positions including:
- Cannabis consultants
- Dispensary operators
- Extraction technicians
- Grow masters
- Marijuana chefs
- Business development representatives
- Chemists and botanists
- Financial analysts
Educational Programs
Several institutions offer specialized cannabis education:
Northern Michigan University
- Medicinal Plant Chemistry undergraduate major
- Cannabis and Plant-Based Wellness Operations Associate degree
- Courses include organic chemistry, plant physiology, accounting, and genetics
Oaksterdam University
- America's first cannabis college
- Offers certificates in business and horticulture
- Focus on regulatory compliance and cultivation techniques
University of Vermont
- Online cannabis science and medicine programs
- Professional certificates in Cannabis Plant Biology
- Completion possible within two months
Additional educational paths that support cannabis careers:
- Horticulture degrees
- Business administration
- Chemistry
- Botany
- Plant sciences
Requirements and Skills
Essential qualifications vary by role:
- Entry-level positions: High school diploma or equivalent
- Technical roles: Relevant degree or certification
- Management positions: Business or science degree plus industry experience
- Compliance knowledge: Understanding of state and federal regulations
- Technical skills: Based on specialization (cultivation, extraction, etc.)
The cannabis industry continues to professionalize, creating opportunities for educated professionals across multiple disciplines. As regulations evolve and the market matures, formal education and certification programs will become increasingly valuable for career advancement in this growing sector.