Top Medical Cannabis Programs
Medical cannabis programs teach the current healthcare applications of medical grade cannabis and its effects on the body. Medical cannabis has a pretty long and interesting history around the world. In the US, people started using cannabis for medical reasons back in the late 1800s. Doctors would prescribe it for things like menstrual cramps and trouble sleeping.
This article was originally published February 23, 2023 and last edited January 20, 2026.
Contents
What are the top-rated cannabis training programs for medical professionals?
Cannabis has traditionally been viewed by healthcare professionals primarily as a substance of abuse. However, recent advancements have shed light on the endocannabinoid system and the physiological effects of both natural and synthetic cannabinoids. Despite these developments, there are still very few educational programs available for scientists, researchers, and clinicians interested in this emerging field.
Healthcare and Medical Cannabis Programs aim to fill this educational gap by offering expert, in-depth instruction on the medical properties of cannabis. These programs are designed for healthcare and retail professionals who want to provide accurate information and guidance regarding cannabis. compare cannabis education certification programs
1. Beale University
BS in Medicinal Plant Sciences
Beale University offers a Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Plant Sciences. Its online cannabis science degree, courses, are stackable and include a Medicinal Plant Sciences (BS), Cannabis Sciences (AAS), Cannabis Business Administration (AAS), and also an 18 credit Cannabis Business Operations (Diploma). Additionally, Beale College is home to the Beale College Cannabis Club, a student-run organization that seeks to provide education and advocacy around cannabis. This club hosts events, guest speakers, workshops, and panel discussions related to the cannabis industry.
- Location: Bangor, Maine
- Credit: 120 credits
- Delivery: 100% Online, 34 weeks
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
- Cost: varies
2. Universities at Shady Grove
MS in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics
If you are interested in a master in cannabis program, this school may be a good choice for you. The Universities at Shady Grove is part of the University System of Maryland and offers a Master of Science (MS) in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics. This two-year cannabis master’s degree program is the nation’s first graduate program dedicated to the study of medical cannabis. Coursework is online with required to travel to USG once each semester for an in-person symposia. These visits offer opportunities to network with peers, as well as meet and interact with experts in the science, therapeutics, and policy of medical cannabis.
- Location: Rockville, Maryland
- Credit: 30 credits
- Delivery: online with travel to USG once each semester
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Cost: $
3. Thomas Jefferson University
Master of Science (MS) in Medical Cannabis Science & Business
The Thomas Jefferson University MS in Medical Cannabis Science and Business program prepares students to excel in the cannabis field as researchers, scientists, entrepreneurs, or healthcare providers. JU’s MS degree program encompasses three stackable graduate certificates in Cannabis Medicine (clinical applications, physiological impacts, therapies, and health effects), Cannabis Science (botany, chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology), and Cannabis Business (regulations, management, operations, financial analysis, and business model innovation).
- Location: Philadelphia, PA
- Credit: 33 credits ( with three 9 credit graduate certificates)
- Delivery: online and mostly asynchronous, takes about 1 year
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Cost: $1283 per credit
4. Notre Dame of Maryland
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Cannabis Science: Therapeutics, Product Design, and Quality Assurance
This program is for individuals approaching the cannabis field through the primary lenses of health and wellness and herbal medicine. Clinicians gain the background needed to guide their patients in using cannabis as an adjunct therapy. The 15-credit program can be completed in 1 year and is delivered entirely online.
- Location: Baltimore, Maryland
- Credit: 15 credits
- Delivery: online over three trimesters
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Cost: $960 per credit
5. Pennsylvania Institute of Technology
Associate of Science in Cannabis Health Therapy degree
The Pennsylvania Institute of Technology offers an associate degree in Cannabis Health Therapy. Students can complete this cannabis therapy degree fully online, in-person, or as a hybrid.
- Location: Media, PA
- Credit: 60 credits
- Delivery: online, in person, or hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Cost: $505 per credit
6. University of Colorado Anschutz
Graduate Certificate in Cannabis Science and Medicine (CSM)
The Skaggs School of Pharmacy at the University of Colorado offers a a Graduate Certificate in Cannabis Science and Medicine. This CSM certificate can be completed in as few as two semesters, but students can take up to two years to complete the program. Additionally, you can apply your earned credits (9 to 11 credit hours) toward a 30 credit hour Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences degree with an emphasis in Cannabis Science and Medicine.
- Location: Aurora, CO
- Credit: 9 to 11 credits
- Delivery: online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Cost: $733 per credit
7. University of Illinois Springfield
Cannabis Healthcare and Medicine Certificate
In ppartnership with Green Flower, the University of Illinois Springfield offers an online certificate
- Location: Springfield, Illinois
- Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
- Delivery: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
- Industry Partner: Green Flower
- Cost: $2,200 total, with installment payment option
8. Western Carolina University
Certificate in Medical Cannabis
In partnership with Ed2Go, Western Carolina University offers a Certificate in Medical Cannabis course. This inexpensive option covers the current healthcare applications of medical cannabis and its effects on the body. Students also learn the history and culture of cannabis, as well as the legal and social considerations of this emerging business.
- Location: Cullowhee, North Carolina
- Credit: 8 course hours of instruction
- Delivery: online, 6 weeks of access
- Industry Partner: Ed2Go
- Cost: $89 total
9. Seattle Central College
Medical Cannabis Consultant Certificate Program
This Institute is a partnership between the Academy of Cannabis Science and Seattle Central College Continuing Education. Its Medical Cannabis Consultant Certificate Program and classes are approved by Washington State Department of Health. And this certificate program was the first program in the state to receive that designation.
- Location: Seattle, Washington
- Credit: course is 20 hours of instruction
- Delivery: 100% Online
- Industry Partner: The Academy of Cannabis Science
- Cost: $399 total
10. Morehouse School of Medicine
MS in Biotechnology (MSBT), Medical Cannabis Therapeutics Concentration
This 35-credit hour MSBT degree is designed to prepare graduates for careers in the biotechnology industry including government, academic, laboratories, and private sector that serve as a pathway to advance training via online learning. The program offers students a unique combination of courses in biosciences, regulatory affairs, entrepreneurship, and project management.
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Credit: 35 credits
- Delivery: 100% Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Cost: $950 per credit
Why Attend a Medical Cannabis Program?
Attending a medical cannabis program is beneficial for both patients and healthcare professionals. For patients, it provides them with access to information about the medical benefits of cannabis, how to use it safely, and what types of conditions it can be used to treat.
For healthcare professionals, a medical cannabis program provides an opportunity to learn more about the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis, how to assess and recommend cannabis for their patients, and the legal and ethical considerations associated with the use of medical cannabis.
What are Medical Cananabis Professional Certifications?
The Medical Cannabis Professional Certification is a comprehensive certification program designed to educate and certify healthcare professionals in the medical use of cannabis. The certification program is based on current best practices, as recommended by leading cannabis experts.
Upon completion of the certification program, healthcare professionals will be able to provide sound medical advice regarding the use of cannabis as a medical treatment. The certification program is offered through the Medical Cannabis Institute, a division of the International Cannabis Research Society.
What Jobs are in Medical Cannabis?
Below are some of the best jobs in the cannabis industry.
Cannabis Nurse
A cannabis nurse is a nurse who specializes in the medical use of cannabis. Cannabis nurses are typically trained in the therapeutic effects of cannabis, and often act as a resource for patients interested in the medical use of cannabis. Cannabis nurses may also be involved in educating healthcare providers on the medical use of cannabis and advising patients on the best methods of cannabis use.
Average Salary: $80,321 (ZipRecruiter)
Cannabis Physician or Medical Marijuana Doctor
A cannabis physician is a medical professional who specializes in the medical use of cannabis and its derivatives. This type of doctor is often referred to as a “cannabis specialist” or a “medical cannabis doctor.” They are responsible for assessing the medical needs of their patients, prescribing cannabis-based treatment plans, and providing education on the therapeutic uses of cannabis. In some states, cannabis physicians must be certified by a specific regulatory body in order to practice. Additionally, some states require cannabis physicians to register with the state in order to prescribe medical marijuana.
Average Salary: $272,959 (ZipRecruiter)
What is the future for Medical Cananabis?
In the early 1900s, a lot of states began to outlaw cannabis, and it got pushed aside for other medications. Everything changed in 1996 when California became the first state to make medical cannabis legal. This was a big deal, and since then, more states have jumped on board and created their own medical cannabis laws, showing that more people are recognizing its benefits.
These laws can be different depending on the state, but they typically let qualified patients get cannabis products with a doctor’s recommendation. Many states have even set up dispensaries to provide these products. Even though the federal government has a different view, a lot of states are still growing their medical cannabis programs, making it easier for people to access it and take advantage of its potential benefits.
Today, more than two-thirds of the US states allow the use of cannabis for medical purposes, and several states have even legalized the use of recreational cannabis. As the public perception of cannabis continues to shift, more and more states are likely to join this trend. Keep reading for some of the best cannabis certification programs and best cannabis degree programs.
Professional Resources for Medical Cannabis
1. National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML): NORML is the leading organization advocating for the legalization of cannabis, providing legal and policy resources for cannabis professionals.
2. The Cannabis Business Alliance (CBA): CBA is a trade organization for cannabis businesses, providing resources and information to support businesses in the cannabis industry.
3. Americans for Safe Access (ASA): ASA is a national advocacy organization that works to ensure safe and legal access to cannabis for therapeutic uses and research. They provide resources and information to cannabis professionals.
4. American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA): ACNA is a professional organization for nurses and healthcare professionals working in the cannabis industry. They provide education and resources for cannabis professionals.
5. National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA): NCIA is the largest cannabis trade organization in the United States, providing resources and information to cannabis professionals.
Related: