As the cannabis industry experiences rapid growth across the United States, New Jersey stands out by integrating cannabis education into its higher education system. Recognizing the demand for a skilled workforce in this burgeoning sector, several colleges and universities in the state have developed specialized programs to prepare students for diverse roles within the cannabis industry.
Stockton University’s Pioneering Efforts
In the fall of 2024, Stockton University made history by becoming the first institution in New Jersey to offer an undergraduate degree in cannabis studies. The Bachelor of Science in Hemp and Cannabis Business Management, housed within Stockton’s School of Business, is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the cannabis sector. The curriculum encompasses courses on cannabis cultivation, social justice issues related to cannabis, and medical cannabis applications. These specialized subjects are complemented by foundational business courses, including business policy and strategies, marketing principles, and macroeconomics. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the cannabis industry.
The program builds upon Stockton’s existing Cannabis Studies minor, which was introduced in 2018 and has seen over 70 students complete the program. A distinctive feature of the bachelor’s degree is its emphasis on experiential learning. Students have the opportunity to engage in two field internships, providing hands-on experience and fostering connections with industry professionals. Rob Mejia, an adjunct professor at Stockton who teaches Cannabis Studies courses, highlighted the program’s relevance by noting, “This year, New Jersey is on track to sell over $1 billion of cannabis products. You have to pay attention to a $1 billion business.”
Rowan University’s Comprehensive Approach
Rowan University has also made significant strides in cannabis education through its Institute for Cannabis Research, Policy, and Workforce Development. This multidisciplinary institute offers a range of programs aimed at providing students and professionals with specialized skills pertinent to the cannabis industry. Among the academic offerings are credit-bearing certificates at both undergraduate and graduate levels, which can also contribute toward degree requirements.
One of the standout programs is the Cannabinoid Chemistry certificate, which addresses the growing need for scientists proficient in analyzing cannabinoids—the active compounds in cannabis. As legalization and therapeutic applications of cannabis expand, there is an increasing demand for experts in this field. Additionally, Rowan offers a certificate in Cannabis Commercialization, focusing on the business aspects of the industry. This program delves into market strategies, operational sustainability, and best practices for managing growth within the dynamic cannabis sector. For those interested in the societal and legal dimensions of cannabis, the Socio-Behavioral and Legal Studies certificate examines regulatory frameworks, social implications, and policy development related to cannabis use and distribution.
To further support workforce development, Rowan has introduced a fully virtual Cannabis Apprenticeship Training Program tailored for the retail sector. This initiative provides both employers and employees with targeted training in compliance, safety, and customer service, thereby facilitating career advancement in cannabis retail. The program is a collaborative effort, funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, and supported by partners such as Rowan College of South Jersey and the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 360.
The Broader Landscape of Cannabis Education
The initiatives by Stockton and Rowan are part of a larger national trend. As of December 2023, approximately 40 colleges across the United States have introduced programs in cannabis studies. These programs cover a spectrum of topics, from crop management and chemical extraction to the management of cannabis-related businesses. This educational movement reflects the increasing acceptance and legalization of cannabis, as well as the necessity for a well-trained workforce to support the industry’s growth.
Final Word
New Jersey’s proactive approach to integrating cannabis education into its higher education institutions underscores the state’s commitment to supporting this emerging industry. By offering specialized degrees and certificates, colleges and universities are not only providing students with valuable opportunities but also ensuring that the cannabis sector benefits from a knowledgeable and skilled workforce. As the industry continues to evolve, such educational programs will play a crucial role in shaping its future and addressing the multifaceted challenges it presents.
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