19 Top Cannabis Product Development Programs

The top Cannabis Product Development & Design Certificate programs include certificates, degrees, and classes offered at community colleges, traditional colleges, universities, and career schools. As the cannabis industry expands, the demand for skilled professionals in the field is on the rise. These new education programs focus on specific parts of the cannabis sector. In this article, we explore the top Cannabis Product Development & Design education and training programs that are shaping the future of the cannabis workforce.

The cannabis industry is rapidly expanding, creating a high demand for skilled professionals. Opportunities are available in cultivation, retail, extraction, product development, and more. This industry allows you to be part of a movement that positively impacts people’s lives. There are positions available at all levels, from entry-level to executive roles. To become an in-demand cannabis professional, it’s important to have the right education and training. Investing in your education will give you the knowledge and skills to succeed in this dynamic industry and advance your career.

1. Bunker Hill Community College

Campus Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Program: Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate
Credit: 3 Units
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, Instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 9 weeks
Program Cost: $799 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

This certificate program from Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) includes three classes: Cannabis Industry Fundamentals, Cannabis Extraction & Product Development, and Compliance & Operations. This program partners with Green Flower and offers students a flexible option for earning the credential.

2. Western Washington University

Campus Location: Bellingham, WA
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 405 hours
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, Instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

Western Washington University partnered with Green Flower and offers a certificate in Cannabis Product Development & Design. This online program covers an array of cannabis products, including gummies, chocolates, oils, and tinctures. You’ll delve deep into the science of cannabis extraction, how to craft exceptional products that cater to a variety of preferences and needs, and strategies for building a compelling cannabis brand. Elevate your expertise and position yourself at the forefront of cannabis product innovation. This certificate is designed for Cannabis Infused Product Chefs., Solventless Extraction Specialist, and Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Professionals.

3. Portland Community College

Campus Location: Portland, OR
Program: Cannabis Extraction and Product Development Specialist Certificate
Credit: 3 Units
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, Instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 9 weeks
Program Cost: $800 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

Learn how the cannabis industry operates from start to finish, including cultivation, distribution, manufacturing, and lab testing. This three-course certificate from Portland Community College provides a solid understanding of the cannabis supply chain so you can confidently engage with industry professionals and excel in various roles and sectors. Topics include state and local compliance, lab testing and analytics, manufacturing and processing, long-term viability of extraction and infused products, product development considerations, the distribution sector, branding and marketing, and opportunities for expansion and growth.

4. Florida Atlantic University

Campus Location: Boca Raton, FL
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, Instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

Embark on a journey to master creating diverse cannabis products through Florida Atlantic University’s certificate program. You will delve deep into the science of cannabis extraction, learn how to craft exceptional products that cater to various preferences and needs and develop strategies for building a compelling cannabis brand. Elevate your expertise and position yourself at the forefront of cannabis product innovation.

5. University of California Riverside

Campus Location: Riverside, CA
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, Instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

University Extension and Professional Studies at UC Riverside offer a cannabis product development certificate.

6. University of Illinois Springfield

Campus Location: Springfield, IL Riverside
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, Instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,300 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

7. Kent State University

Campus Location: Ohio
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, Instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

The Lifelong Learning Initiative at Kent State University promotes and supports impactful learning experiences beyond the degree programs offered by the university. The school now offers the Cannabis Product Development & Design Certificate in partnership with Green Flower. Classes in this certificate program include Cannabis 101: History and Practice Across Industries, Cannabis Extraction, Products, and Design I, and Cannabis Extraction, Products, and Design II.

8. St. Cloud University

Campus Location: St. Cloud, MN
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

The Professional and Continuing Education division of St. Cloud State University offers five cannabis certificate programs. Partnered with Green Flower, theses certificate programs provide students with expert education for real-world and the emerging cannabis market.

9. Thomas Edison State University

Campus Location: Trenton, New Jersey
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

10. University of North Florida

Campus Location: Jacksonville, FL
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

11. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Campus Location: Worcester, MA
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

12. University of New Haven

Campus Location: West Haven, CT
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

13. Mercy University

Campus Location: Dobbs Ferry, NY
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,300 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

14. University of Nevada Reno

Campus Location: Reno, NV
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

15. University of New Mexico

Campus Location: Albuquerque, NM
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

16. University of Wisconsin Platteville

Campus Location: Platteville, Wisconsin
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,300 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

17. Syracuse University

Campus Location: Syracuse, NY
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

18. Northwest Missouri State University

Campus Location: Maryville, MO
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

19. Northern Michigan University

Campus Location: Marquette, MI
Program: Cannabis Product Development & Design certificate
Credit: 3 Units (8 weeks each)
Delivery Mode: 100% Online, instructor-led, asynchronous
Length: 6 months
Program Cost: $2,750 total, with installment payment option
Industry Partner: Green Flower Institute
Interested: Click here to find out more!

What is Cannabis Product Design?

Cannabis product development and design refers to the process of creating new cannabis-related products, ranging from consumables like edibles and beverages to concentrates, topicals, and even accessories like vaporizers or packaging solutions. This field involves a combination of scientific knowledge, market research, creativity, and regulatory compliance. Here are some key components of cannabis product development and design:

Market Research

Understanding consumer preferences, trends, and demands in the cannabis industry is crucial. This involves analyzing data, conducting surveys, and staying updated on market dynamics.

Formulation

Developing formulations for cannabis products involves determining the appropriate combination of cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), terpenes, and other ingredients to achieve desired effects, flavors, and aromas.

Product Testing

Ensuring the safety, potency, and quality of cannabis products through rigorous testing is essential. This may involve analytical testing for cannabinoid content, microbial contaminants, pesticides, heavy metals, and other impurities.

Packaging and Labeling

Designing attractive and informative packaging that complies with regulatory requirements is important for cannabis products. Packaging should be child-resistant and properly labeled with dosage information, warnings, and other relevant details.

Regulatory Compliance

Navigating the complex and evolving regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis products is a key aspect of product development. Compliance with local, state/provincial, and federal regulations is essential to avoid legal issues and ensure consumer safety.

Innovation

Constant innovation is essential in the cannabis industry to stay competitive and meet evolving consumer preferences. This may involve developing novel delivery methods, incorporating new ingredients, or creating unique product formulations.

Sustainability

With growing concerns about environmental impact, sustainability is becoming increasingly important in cannabis product development. This includes using eco-friendly packaging materials, implementing energy-efficient production processes, and reducing waste.

Brand Identity

Developing a strong brand identity that resonates with consumers is crucial for success in the cannabis market. This involves creating compelling branding elements, such as logos, packaging designs, and marketing campaigns, that reflect the values and ethos of the brand.

Overall, cannabis product development and design require a multidisciplinary approach, combining scientific expertise, creative design, and business acumen to create safe, high-quality products that resonate with consumers and comply with regulatory requirements.

What Can You Do in Cannabis Product Development?

Various roles within cannabis product development require a range of skills and expertise. Below are some common jobs you can find in cannabis product development.

Cannabis Product or Brand Managers

A Cannabis Product manager is responsible for the overall strategy and direction of cannabis products. They conducts market research, identify consumer trends and preferences, and work closely with R&D, marketing, and sales teams to develop and launch successful products.

AVERAGE SALARY: $107,050 (Cannabis Industry Salary Guide)

Cannabis Extraction Technicians

An Extraction technician is responsible for extracting cannabinoids and other compounds from cannabis plants using various extraction methods such as CO2 extraction, ethanol extraction, or hydrocarbon extraction. They ensure that extraction processes are efficient, safe, and yield high-quality extracts.

AVERAGE SALARY: $63,000 (Cannabis Industry Salary Guide)

Cannabis Research and Development (R&D) Managers

A Cannabis Research and Development (R&D) Manager oversees the entire product development process, from conceptualization to commercialization. They coordinate cross-functional teams, set project timelines and goals, and ensure that products meet market needs and regulatory requirements.

AVERAGE SALARY: $201,650 (Cannabis Industry Salary Guide)

Cannabis QA/QC Specialists

A Cannabis Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Specialist ensures that cannabis products meet regulatory requirements and quality standards. They oversee testing procedures, analyze test results, and implement quality control measures to ensure product safety and consistency.

AVERAGE SALARY: $93,000 (Cannabis Industry Salary Guide)

Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Specialists

A Cannabis Packaging and Labeling Specialist designs and develops packaging solutions that comply with regulatory requirements and effectively communicate product information to consumers. They may also work on branding and marketing strategies to enhance product visibility and appeal.

AVERAGE SALARY: $60,060 (Cannabis Industry Salary Guide)

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of jobs available in cannabis product development. Depending on your skills, interests, and expertise, there are many opportunities to contribute to this rapidly growing industry.

What Cities are Hiring for Cannabis Product Development Jobs?

The cannabis industry is experiencing significant growth, and various cities across North America are actively hiring for cannabis product development jobs.

Below are 10 of the cities known for their involvement in the cannabis industry and where you might find opportunities for cannabis product development jobs.

Denver, Colorado
Portland, Oregon
Los Angeles, California
Phoenix, Arizona
Las Vegas, Nevada
San Francisco, California
Seattle, Washington
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Montreal, Quebec, Canada

These cities are just a few examples, and the cannabis industry continues to expand, offering opportunities for product development jobs in many other locations as well. Additionally, as cannabis legalization spreads globally, new markets are emerging, creating further opportunities for employment in product development across different regions.

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