Top Cannabis Extraction Certificates
The top cannabis extraction certificate programs and courses train professionals for lab jobs in this fast growing industry. Many expect the cannabis industry to become a multi-billion dollar market by 2028. But, as states move toward cannabis legalization, significant challenges emerge. The industry is rapidly expanding, but training new workers is not keeping pace.
Table of Contents
- 1. Wilkes University
- 2. Harrisburg Area Community College
- 3. Bunker Hill Community College
- 4. Elmira College
- 5. Black Hawk Community College
- 6. Kingsborough Community College
- 7. Oaksterdam University
- Why attend a cannabis extraction program?
- What are professional certifications for cannabis extraction?
- What jobs are in cannabis extraction?
- What are the general requirements for cannabis extraction jobs?
1. Wilkes University
Cannabis Extraction Certificate and a BS in Cannabis Chemistry
Wilkes University offers a Cannabis Production and CBD Extraction Certificate as well as a of bachelor of science in Cannabis Chemistry. The extraction certificate is designed for current pharmacy, biology and chemistry students, as well as, industry professionals who want to advance their careers.
- Location: Wilkes-Barr, Pennsylvania
- Credit: 16 credit certificate, 120 credits for BS
- Delivery: certificate is hybrid, BS is campus based
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Cost: $530 per credit
2. Harrisburg Area Community College
Cannabis Extraction & Product Development Specialist Certificate
Harrisburg Area Community College offers a Cannabis Extraction & Product Development Specialist Certificate.
- Location: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
- Credit: certificate from university
- Delivery: 100% online, 9 weeks
- Accreditation: NA
- Cost: $849
The BHCC Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate program trains to be in-demand cannabis professionals. This online cannabis certificate program teaches the various methods for extracting cannabis safely and effectively, different cannabis infused product types, and the different business models around cannabis manufacturing.
- Campus Location: Boston, Massachusetts
- Program: Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate
- Credit: 60 credits
- Delivery: 100% Online, partnered with Green Flower
- Program Cost: $799
Elmira College also partners with Green Flower to offer the Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate.
- Campus Location: Elmira, New York
- Program: Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate
- Credit: 60 credits, 3 units, 9 weeks
- Delivery: 100% Online, partnered with Green Flower
- Program Cost: $750
Elmira College partners with Green Flower to offer the Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate. Graduates earn a Cannabis Retail Specialist Certificate from the GF Institute. This industry-recognized credentialalso gives access to the Employer Network, connecting them with leading cannabis companies looking to hire skilled professionals.
- Campus Location: Elmira, New York
- Program: Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate
- Credit: 60 credits, 3 units, 9 weeks
- Delivery: 100% Online, partnered with Green Flower
- Program Cost: $750
Kingsborough Community College also offers the Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate.
- Campus Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Program: Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate
- Credit: 60 credits, 3 units, 9 weeks
- Delivery: 100% Online, partnered with Green Flower
- Program Cost: $750
Oaksterdam University is a global leader in cannabis education. This online training provider offers classes to businesses, regulators, educators, and individuals for a variety of roles across the cannabis industry.
- Campus Location: online training provider
- Program: Extraction & Manufacturing Certification
- Credit: 12 courses, 15 hours of course time, 59 days to complete
- Delivery: online self-paced course or live online course
- Accreditation: NA
- Cost: $1,299
Why attend a cannabis extraction program?
Attending a cannabis extraction degree program can be a valuable investment for individuals interested in pursuing a career in the rapidly growing cannabis industry. Here are some key reasons why Cannabis extraction technician training is useful:
Network with Industry Professionals
Attending a cannabis extraction program provides opportunities to connect with leading industry experts, potential employers, and peers, forming a valuable network that can open doors to future career opportunities.
Acquire Specialized Knowledge and Skills
Cannabis extraction is a complex process requiring a deep understanding of plant science, chemistry, and various extraction methods (hydrocarbon, ethanol, CO2, solventless, etc.). Extraction schools provide specialized training in these areas, ensuring you gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to safely and efficiently extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant.
Meet Industry Demands
As the cannabis industry continues to expand, there’s a growing demand for skilled professionals who can produce high-quality extracts and concentrates. A cannabis extraction education or certification helps meet this demand and gives you a competitive edge in the job market.
Learn About Diverse Product Development
Extraction is the foundation for creating a wide variety of cannabis products, including oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals, and concentrates. Extraction schools can teach you about different infused product types and manufacturing processes, enabling you to contribute to product innovation and development.
Ensure Safety and Compliance
Working with cannabis extracts requires adhering to strict safety protocols and complying with evolving state and local regulations. Extraction schools prioritize safety training, focusing on proper equipment operation, handling of hazardous chemicals, and understanding Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Boost Career Advancement Potential
With the cannabis industry still emerging and specializing, gaining relevant education and certifications can significantly enhance your career advancement potential. You might qualify for roles such as extraction technician, extraction chemist, extraction supervisor, or even management positions.
What are professional certifications for cannabis extraction?
Green Flower has partnered with many educational institutions to offer the Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate. The cannabis extraction classes teach the skills needed to become a respected and in-demand cannabis professional.
What jobs are in cannabis extraction?
In cannabis extraction, jobs range from entry-level lab technician roles to specialized and management positions requiring scientific knowledge and experience. The work is highly regulated and focused on separating desired compounds from the cannabis plant to create concentrates, edibles, and other products.
Below are some of the best extraction jobs in the cannabis industry.
Cannabis Extraction Technician/Specialist
Cannabis Extraction Technicians operate and maintain extraction equipment, prepare plant material, run the extraction, and clean the lab and equipment.
Salary: $45,000
Cannabis Extraction Lab Manager
Cannabis Extraction Lab Managers oversee technical operations in the lab, manage staff, ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and coordinate production schedules.
Salary: $80,000
Cannabis Extraction Chemist
Cannabis Extraction Chemists work in lab and are responsible for the entire process, from initial extraction and purification to quality assurance and documentation.
Salary: $80,000
What are the general requirements for cannabis extraction jobs?
Because of the chemicals and equipment involved, nearly all cannabis extraction roles require strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols. General requirements often include:
- Being at least 21 years old.
- Passing a background check and obtaining a state-specific cannabis worker license.
- The ability to work in a laboratory setting and with hazardous materials.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks.
A background in chemistry or experience in a regulated production facility is often preferred for more advanced roles.
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