With New York recently legalizing recreational cannabis, Syracuse University (SU) is taking steps to help train and prepare workers for careers in the cannabis industry.
Syracuse University is partnering with Green Flower, a California-based cannabis education company, to offer courses in cannabis education. Beginning in June, SU’s University College will begin offering certificate programs in several specialties in the cannabis industry. The programs will cover the business of cannabis, law and policy, health and medicine, as well as agriculture and horticulture.
“These new market-sensitive certificates represent Syracuse University’s role in supporting growth-oriented economic initiatives in New York State,” Michael Frasciello, dean of University College, said. “Online alternative credentials such as these certificates are designed to meet the growing demand for skills-based careers in emerging fields and sustainability-based industries, particularly among adult learners.”
Each program consists of three, eight-week courses over a six-month span that students can complete at their own pace. Students will receive online instruction from experts in their chosen topic that have been selected by Green Flower. Green Flower’s educational resources are also being used at other colleges and universities, including Florida Atlantic University, Northern Michigan University and the University of California, Riverside.
“Green Flower is honored to be working with Syracuse University and in particular the University College. We saw the commitment by the university of expanding offerings for working adults and lifelong learners as an obvious sign that the university wants to serve all types of students in every stage of their growth and careers,” Daniel Kalef, vice president of Higher Education at Green Flower, said.
Syracuse University joins many other colleges offering courses or programs in cannabis education. Colorado State University-Pueblo offers a Bachelor’s degree program in Cannabis Biology and Chemistry, and a couple of community colleges in Arizona recently began offering cannabis education programs as well.
