Cannabis Academy

Program Overview

With the U.S. cannabis market projected to generate $45.35 billion in revenue by 2025, the Cannabis Academy offers timely and relevant training for those seeking to enter or advance in this burgeoning sector.

The Cannabis Academy provides flexible, at your own pace training built for busy adult learners. Students engage in a robust learning experience through expert-led video instruction, self-paced assignments, and interactive digital tools. Each certificate program includes:

• At least 10 hours of structured course instruction
• 100+ hours of bonus educational content
• Completion timeline as short as two weeks per certificate program
• A non-credit certificate co-issued by Alvernia University and CSC

Courses are hosted on CSC’s Course360 platform and supported by experienced faculty and dedicated student services. Students actively participate through online engagement, assignment completion, and virtual communication—fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

New enrollments open every week.
 

Programs and Pricing

Courses are grouped into three focused certificate programs. Each certificate is individually priced and includes multiple courses. Learners may enroll in multiple certificate programs to broaden their expertise across this highly regulated, multidisciplinary industry. Students can earn all three certificates with a bundle pricing of $2,650.

Cannabis Cultivation Certificate Program ($1,100)

Develop foundational skills for regulated plant cultivation, compliance, and sustainability.
 

Courses Included:

• Basics of Horticulture
• Introduction to Cannabis Cultivation
• Glandular Trichome Science
• Commercial Cultivation Operations
• Know Your CBD
   

Science of Certificate Program ($1,040)

Understand advanced methods for solvent-based and solventless extraction techniques, with a focus on safety and product innovation.
 

Courses Included:

• Mechanical Extractions
• CO₂ Extractions
• Ethanol/Hydrocarbon Extractions
• Cannabis Post-Processing
• Glandular Trichome Science
• Cooking with Cannabis
   

Cannabis Dispensary Certificate Program ($740)

Build competencies in consumer guidance, cannabinoid science, and dispensary procedures.
 

Courses Included:

• History of Cannabis
• Cannabis Advocacy
• Cannabis Basics & the Dispensary Experience
• Endocannabinoid System
• Terpenes & Cultivars
• Know Your CBD

Who should enroll?

• Career changers looking to enter the cannabis space
• Professionals in pharmacy, agriculture, chemistry, or business seeking plant-based product knowledge
• Entrepreneurs interested in entering a regulated industry
• Medical, horticultural, and tech professionals expanding their skillsets
• Anyone interested in cannabis science and industry innovation

Career Pathways

The legal cannabis industry in the U.S. is experiencing rapid growth, supporting over 440,000 full-time jobs as of 2023, with projections estimating nearly 800,000 jobs by 2029. Graduates are prepared to pursue entry-level roles in a variety of sectors within the regulated cannabis industry, including:
 

• Plant cultivation and compliance monitoring
• Extraction and lab operations
• Dispensary and product education
• Health and wellness coaching
• Consumer safety and regulatory affairs

While the program does not offer credit toward a degree, it provides foundational knowledge and skills applicable to a wide range of health, science, and agricultural careers. 

Student Expectations & Support

While the Cannabis Academy is self-paced, students are expected to maintain consistent engagement. This includes:

• Completing all course modules and assignments
• Participating in interactive online content (quizzes, polls, simulations)
• Communicating with instructors and advisors as needed

Support services include academic advising from the CSC Director of Education, as well as technical assistance through the CSC helpdesk.
 

Compliance & Eligibility

This program is intended for educational purposes only. It does not promote the use or sale of cannabis or related products. All content complies with federal and state guidelines for plant-based product education.

Students must be 21+ to enroll.
(Verification may be required at the time of registration.)

FAQs

Is this program available to anyone?

Yes, but students must be 21 or older to register. The program is open to learners nationwide where online cannabis education is permitted. Students are responsible for understanding and complying with their local and state laws.

Do I need prior experience?

No prior experience is required. The program is ideal for those new to the field or looking to transition careers.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a non-credit certificate co-issued by Alvernia University and the Cleveland School of Cannabis.

Can I use this for job placement or credit?

This program is not currently stackable for academic credit, but the skills gained may be applied directly in the workforce. Alvernia and CSC are exploring future pathways and partnerships.

How do I learn more information or register?

Enrollment is offered every week. You can learn more by contacting Alvernia's Graduate and Adult Education team at accelerate@alvernia.edu or call 610.796.5187. You can also use the links below to get started:

Learn More

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