Cannabis Studies Minor Degree Begins for New Jersey College

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]C[/dropcap]annabis acceptance continues to grow stronger over time, and it’s all thanks to education and awareness in one way or another. Adding more validity to knowledge on cannabis, some U.S. colleges are embracing curriculum about cannabis by allowing students to learn about the plant via unique classes. Furthermore, some colleges are evening offering degrees that revolve around cannabis.

New Jersey-based Stockton University, located in Galloway, recently announced that it will be offering a “Cannabis Studies” minor program. Program Coordinator and Biology Professor Kathy Sedia sees the endless possibilities of opening up cannabis conversations on college campuses. “Oftentimes, colleges get criticized for not offering students real-life skills and that certainly is going to be a life skill regardless of whether New Jersey stops at medical or goes to the recreational side of it,” Sedia stated.

The program requires five classes for completion, including electives that focus on a student’s specific interest in certain aspects of the industry. One such topic is what Sedia refers to as the “social justice aspect of the industry.” In that specific class, students will learn about the effects that cannabis has had on minorities. “You cannot really talk about medicinal marijuana without discussing the war on drugs and the devastating effects it had on the African-American communities.”

The minor program is poised to set many students up for success, especially those who are involved majoring in business or criminal justice. The cannabis landscape is constantly changing, so a proper understanding of the industry as it used to be, as well as the present and future predictions could be useful. Other classes include a focus on plant cultivation, and the possibility for relevant internships as well.

Sedia stated that 25 students signed up for the program, which begins today, Sept. 5. Hopefully like other cannabis programs, this one will be a successful way for students to enter the cannabis industry in their chosen field.