KENT, Ohio – To meet the needs of Ohio’s rapidly growing cannabis industry, Kent State University has expanded its partnership with Green Flower and will add six new online Cannabis Career Certificate programs.

In 2023 Ohio became the 24th state to legalize the use of cannabis products for adults, including recreational usage. Since then, the state’s cannabis industry has ballooned to $3 billion, according to the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control’s data published Sept. 12.

Kent State started its Cannabis Education program in January 2024. Since that time, more than 270 students have enrolled in the university’s online cannabis education program, according to a news release.

The new certificate programs will be offered in partnership with Green Flower, a leading provider of cannabis education.

New certificates to be offered are:

Cannabis Associate Certificate – This eight-week program offers a foundation in cannabis policy, plant science, industry sectors and compliance essentials. The certificate aims to help students prepare for entry-level jobs in the cannabis industry.

Cannabis Cultivation Specialist – This 16-week program helps prepare students for cultivation roles in indoor, outdoor and greenhouse environments.

Cannabis Product Development Specialist – This 16-week program educates students on how to develop cannabis products from extraction to finished products.

Cannabis Retail and Sales Specialist – This 16-week program offers students product knowledge and sales skills to work in dispensary and brand sales roles.

Cannabis Compliance Specialist – This 16-week program educates students in cannabis compliance across cultivation, retail and manufacturing operations.

Medical Cannabis Specialist – This 16-week program helps students learn about safe and effective cannabis use and prepares them for roles in clinics and dispensaries.

The new certificate programs begin on Jan. 13, 2026, with additional start dates every eight weeks, according to the university. To learn more about the certificate programs or enroll, visit https://cannabiseducation.kent.edu/.

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