Overview
The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing industries with a variety of employment opportunities throughout the country. In New Jersey, there are currently 2,356 cannabis jobs and is projected to climb up to 321,393 cannabis-related jobs within five years. Across the United States, there are an estimated 321,000 people working in the legal cannabis industry.
The Cannabis Studies Certificate prepares students for roles that go beyond the budtender. While in the program, students can acquire industry experience and build connections through internship and affiliate programs. Those studying in close proximity to Rider’s Lawrenceville, NJ campus can also benefit from easy access to the state capital of Trenton, Newark and major cities New York and Philadelphia that offer opportunities for gaining experience and networking with local, state and federal government.
After earning the certificate, students at varying stages of their careers will possess the knowledge and credentials that can help them stand out. Potential roles students can explore include accounting and finance, communications, marketing and sales, management, public policy, government and law, research and development, and supply chain management.
Curriculum Overview
The eight month cannabis industry certificate program will consist of a series of four courses in the fields of biology, policy, and business taught by subject and industry experts to provide students with both key knowledge about cannabis and the rapidly expanding cannabis industry to position them for successful entry into the field.
Certificate Offered:
- Certificate in Cannabis Studies
Contact
Victor Thompson, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chairperson
Department of Sociology and Criminology
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Fine Arts Building, 281
609-895-5463
vthompson@rider.edu
Program Website: Sociology
Associated Department: Sociology and Criminology
Related Programs
Cannabis Studies Certificate Requirements
(6 credits)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Complete the following courses: | ||
| SOC 142 | The Legal & Policy Dimensions of Cannabis | 1.5 |
| BIO 102 | The Biology of Cannabis | 1.5 |
| BUS 150 | The Business of Cannabis | 1.5 |
| SOC 143 | From Plant to Profession: Practical Skills & Applications | 1.5 |
| Total Credits | 6 | |
Courses and Descriptions
SOC 142 The Legal & Policy Dimensions of Cannabis 1.5 Credits
In this course, you will learn about drug policy in the United States through the lens of cannabis. Theoretical and empirical arguments for, and consequences of, prohibition, and legalization will be considered with special attention to race, class, and gender. Opportunities and challenges springing from recent legal reforms and a rapidly expanding legal industry will be considered using a variety of cultural, legal, and academic sources.
BIO 102 The Biology of Cannabis 1.5 Credits
In this course, you will learn about many aspects of the biology of cannabis, including botany, genetics, growth techniques, strain selection, and health benefits. Emphasis is placed on current methods in the marijuana industry to help legal growers and professionals understand best practices for cultivation, management, and medicinal use. Current literature and sources will be discussed.
SOC 143 From Plant to Profession: Practical Skills & Applications 1.5 Credits
Put your new cannabis knowledge to use in real world settings! In this final skills-based course of Rider’s Cannabis Studies certificate, you will expand on the initial knowledge you've obtained through completing Rider's foundational courses in business, biology, and the law. You will learn directly from key experts in the field, whose knowledge about key trends in the cannabis industry will prepare you to explore unmatched opportunities to enter the rapidly expanding cannabis industry. Content will expose students to cannabis horticulture, science, clinical practice, and legal compliance to prepare them to enter into a variety of cannabis industry positions.
BUS 150 The Business of Cannabis 1.5 Credits
In this online course, you will learn about trends and best practices in the business operations of the cannabis industry. Emphasis will be placed on financial strategies, marketing, customer service, and the regulatory environment.