| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
| 2024-05-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Cannabis Science Certificate from Thomas Jefferson University offers an online education in cannabis botany, chemistry, and pharmacology. This one-year program prepares individuals for careers in growing, processing, researching, testing, and educating within the cannabis industry. Through three online courses taken sequentially throughout the fall, spring, and summer terms, students gain an in-depth understanding of cannabis and its applications. The program culminates in a certificate that can also contribute toward an MS in Medical Cannabis Science & Business.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Cannabis Science Certificate is a one-year online program offered by the Institute of Emerging Health Professions at Thomas Jefferson University. It provides an in-depth understanding of the botany and chemistry of the cannabis plant, cannabinoid pharmacology, and the identification and quantification of chemical components and potential toxicants in cannabis. The program prepares students for careers in the cannabis industry, including growing and processing cannabis plants, developing new strains, and researching the potential of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Students learn about the mechanisms of action and functional roles of endogenous cannabinoids in humans, as well as how plant cannabinoids interact with the endogenous cannabinoid neurotransmitter system.
Outline:
The Cannabis Science Certificate is a stackable certificate that can be applied towards the MS in Medical Cannabis Science & Business. The program consists of three online courses:
- CSC 511 Botany and Chemistry of Cannabis (3 credit hours): Offered in the Fall term.
- CSC 512 Forensic Analysis of Cannabinoids & Cannabis Derived Products (3 credit hours): Offered in the Spring term.
- CSC 513 Cannabinoid Pharmacology (3 credit hours): Offered in the Summer term. The courses are designed to accommodate students with diverse academic backgrounds and career interests. They are mostly asynchronous, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Students can enroll in the program in the fall, spring, or summer.
Careers:
The Cannabis Science Certificate prepares students for a variety of careers in the cannabis industry, including:
- Cannabis Cultivator: Growing and maintaining cannabis plants.
- Cannabis Processor: Extracting and processing cannabis products.
- Cannabis Researcher: Studying the effects of cannabinoids and developing new cannabis-based products.
- Cannabis Analyst: Testing cannabis products for quality and safety.
- Cannabis Educator: Teaching others about the science of cannabis.
Other:
The Cannabis Science Certificate is offered in partnership with the Center for Forensic Science Research & Education, which has been at the forefront of the forensic community for over 20 years. The Center's internationally recognized staff provides an unparalleled learning experience in this emerging field.
