The University of Illinois Springfield Office of Continuing and Professional Education will offer non-credit online certificates in cannabis education.
The course will include three, eight-week fully online courses. The courses are being offered as part of a partnership between the university and Green Flower, a consulting company that creates online education about cannabis.
The fastest-growing industry in America according to Business Wire, cannabis has created a demand for workers with a broad range of skills. The program will attempt to meet this need for workers in the industry.
Courses will cover the business of cannabis, agriculture and horticulture, law and policy, and healthcare and medicine. The certificates and programs are aimed at advancing knowledge and practice of cannabis across multiple sectors.
“We are excited to be the first university in Illinois to partner with Green Flower to offer in-demand cannabis certificate programs,” said Rob Kerr, associate director of Continuing and Professional Education for UIS, in a statement. “The Illinois cannabis sector has enormous growth potential. There are 25 dispensaries and cultivation centers within 100 miles of our campus, and over 16,000 employees statewide. Those with the right training will be positioned to take full advantage of it.”
Courses are set to begin Aug. 23, and enrollment is open now. The cost is $2,500 per certificate, but UIS is offering a $300 discount for students who enroll in the first cohort. After graduating from the course, students will earn a certificate from the University of Illinois Springfield.