Top Cannabis Science Degree Programs

7 Top Cannabis Science Degree Programs

The top Cannabis Science degree 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 chemistry and science education and training programs that are shaping the future of the cannabis workforce.


1. Lake Superior State University

  • Campus Location: Sault Saint Marie, Michigan
  • Program: BS in Cannabis Chemistry, Cannabis Chemistry Certificate, AS in Cannabis Chemistry
  • Credit: 12 to 120
  • Delivery Mode: Campus
  • Length: 1 to 4 years
  • Program Cost: $582.00 per unit (more)
  • Institutional Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Interested: Click here to find out more!

LSSU trains students to become leaders in the emerging field of cannabis analysis. The university’s Cannabis Chemistry program in the first in the US to offer a BS in Chemistry. It focuses on the quantitative analysis of cannabis-related compounds and contaminants including THC, CBD, and also terpenes. This progressive program is offered in baccalaureate and associate degrees. Select courses include Cannabis Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, and Cannabis Separations. A 12-credit Cannabis Production Certificate stacks to the 57-credit Cannabis Science Associate Degree and also to the BS in Cannabis Chemistry.


2. York College of Pennsylvania

  • Campus Location: York, Pennsylvania
  • Program: BS in Cannabinoid Chemistry degree program
  • Credit: 120
  • Delivery Mode: campus, in person
  • Length: 4 years
  • Institutional Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
  • Program Cost: $695 per credit
  • Interested: Click here to find out more!

The York College of Pennsylvania Bachelor of Science in Cannabinoid Chemistry degree program prepares graduates for a range of careers in plant science and chemical processing. Additionally, this Cannabinoid Chemistry major fully aligns with the American Chemical Society guidelines, the standard for educational institutions developing programs in this emerging field.


3. Beal University

  • Campus Location: Bangor, ME
  • Program: Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Cannabis Sciences
  • Credit: 60
  • Delivery: online
  • Length: 18 months
  • Program Cost: —
  • Institutional Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Careers Schools and Colleges
  • Interested: Click here to find out more!

Beale’s Associate of Applied Science degree offers students a broad survey of the fundamentals of cannabis science. The program includes an overview of cannabis cultivation, testing, and extraction methodologies. Students also receive a solid foundation in biological, chemical, and plant sciences. The Cannabis Sciences program is an Associate of Applied Science degree that is designed to offer students a broad survey of the fundamentals of cannabis science. The program includes an overview of cannabis cultivation, testing, and extraction methodologies, as well as a solid foundation in biological, chemical, and plant sciences.


4. Colorado State University at Pueblo

  • Campus Location: Pueblo, Colorado
  • Program: Bachelor of Science degree in Cannabis Biology and Chemistry
  • Credit: 120 credits
  • Delivery Mode: in person
  • Length: 4 years
  • Program Cost: $403 per credit (more)
  • Institutional Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Interested: Click here to find out more!

Colorado State University in Pueblo offers a BS in Cannabis Biology and Chemistry. This program provides students with a deep understanding of cannabis genetics, cultivation techniques, and quality control processes. The curriculum includes rigorous laboratory training in cannabis analysis, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in cannabis testing and quality assurance. By collaborating with local cannabis businesses, CSU-Pueblo provides its students with valuable industry connections and hands-on experience in the field. Additionally, they can specialize in their field of interest through concentration areas in Hemp Agriculture, Analytical, and Natural Products.


5. Northern Michigan University

  • Campus Location: Marquette, MI
  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Plant Chemistry
  • Credit: 120 credits
  • Delivery Mode: Face-to-Face on Campus
  • Length: about 4 years
  • Program Cost: $0 per credit (more)
  • Institutional Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Interested: Click here to find out more!

Northern Michigan University (NMU) offers a BS in Medicinal Plant Chemistry. This cannabis chemistry degree program focuses on the chemistry and pharmacology of cannabis and other medicinal plants. Students develop a scientific understanding of the therapeutic properties of cannabis. NMU’s specialized curriculum includes courses in organic chemistry, analytical techniques, and pharmacology. The university’s state-of-the-art Medicinal Plant Chemistry Laboratory offers students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research related to cannabis and other therapeutic plants.


6. Minot State University

  • Campus Location: Minot, North Dakota
  • Program: BS in Medicinal Plant Chemistry
  • Credit: 120
  • Delivery: campus based, in person
  • Length: around 4 years
  • Program Cost: $355 per credit (more)
  • Institutional Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
  • Interested: Click here to find out more!

This cannabis chemistry degree at Minot State University features coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, math, and also a capstone research project. Additionally, students earn valuable lab experience focusing on the separation and analysis of compounds from plants.


7. SUNY Erie

  • Campus Location: Erie, New York
  • Program: Associate Degree in Applied Science in Biotechnological Science with a Cannabis Concentration
  • Credit: 60 credits
  • Delivery: in person
  • Length: 2 years
  • Institutional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  • Program Cost: $433 per credit (more)
  • Interested: Click here to find out more!

SUNY Erie’s Associate Degree in Applied Science in Biotechnological Science offers students the training and laboratory skills necessary for gainful employment in the pharmaceutical, and food processing industries. The Biotechnological Science program offers two different concentrations to prepare students to work in high demand industries.


What Jobs Can You Get in the Cannabis Industry with a Cannabis Science Degree?

The cannabis industry is evolving, and job opportunities may vary based on the legal and regulatory landscape in different regions. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions can enhance your employability in the industry.

Having a degree in Cannabis Science can open up various job opportunities within the cannabis industry. Below are some potential jobs you can pursue with a Cannabis Science degree.

What Can You Do With a Cannabis Science Degree?

What jobs can you get with a cannabis science degree? A cannabis science degree prepares students for direct entry into laboratory, manufacturing, cultivation, and product development roles. Some potential career options include Cannabis Research Analyst, Research Scientist, and Extraction Technician.

A degree in cannabis science opens up various career opportunities in the rapidly growing cannabis industry. Here are some potential career paths:

Cannabis Laboratory Technician

A Cannabis Lab Tech maintain inventory in the laboratory and ensure high quality products that are produced in a safe and clean environment. These are typically entry-level positions that also offer growth opportunities. Lab technicians play a key role in ensuring the quality of cannabis products and typically work in cannabis testing laboratories to analyze samples for potency, purity, and safety.

AVERAGE SALARY: $47,359 (GlassDoor)


Cannabis Chemist

What does a cannabis chemist do? A Cannabis, also known as a cannabis scientist or analytical chemist specializing in cannabis, is a professional who applies principles of chemistry to analyze and study cannabis and its components. Their work is crucial in ensuring the quality, safety, and potency of cannabis products. Here are the key responsibilities and activities of a cannabis chemist:

AVERAGE SALARY: $66,200 (Indeed)


Cannabis Researchers

A Cannabis Researcher conducts scientific research to explore the medicinal properties, cultivation techniques, and potential applications of cannabis. Researchers may work in laboratories, universities, or research institutions.

AVERAGE SALARY: $93,406 (Indeed)


Cannabis Laboratory Managers

A Cannabis Laboratory Manager plays a crucial role in overseeing the operations and ensuring the quality of cannabis testing laboratories.

AVERAGE SALARY: $63,006 (Indeed)


What Cities are Hiring for Cannabis Chemistry Jobs?

ZipRecruiter reports the below cities have the most cannabis chemistry job openings.

  1. Chicago
  2. Philadelphia
  3. Detroit
  4. Worcester
  5. San Diego
  6. Aurora
  7. Long Beach
  8. Los Angeles
  9. Denver
  10. Pueblo

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