Southern CT State University Launches 'Suite' Of Online Cannabis Career Certificate Programs

NEW HAVEN, CT — Southern Connecticut State University’s Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning announced the launch of a new suite of online Cannabis Career Certificate programs, developed in partnership with Green Flower, the leader in cannabis education.

Featuring more than 50 cannabis industry leaders and subject matter experts, these new online programs feature updated curricula, accessible pricing, and robust career support through Green Flower’s Cannabis Career Resource Center, all designed to help people start or grow their cannabis
careers today.

"These new Cannabis Career Certificates are built to match exactly what employers are hiring
for in each sector of the cannabis industry," said Max Simon, CEO and founder of Green Flower.

"Southern’s OWLL has proudly partnered with Green Flower over the past year to deliver
specialized training programs in cannabis extraction, production, and retail operations," said
Amy Feest, OWLL senior director. "This collaboration opens doors for individuals to enter a
rapidly growing industry that is strongly supported by both the State of Connecticut and the City
of New Haven."

Feest said that Connecticut’s cannabis sector is projected to create between 10,000 and 17,000
jobs within five years and generate up to $1.7 billion in state GDP, alongside hundreds of
millions in tax revenue, underscoring its significant economic impact. Nationwide, cannabis is
one of the fastest-growing industries, with over 440,000 jobs already supported and continued
growth expected. Locally, Feest said, New Haven and statewide initiatives—including the Social
Equity Council’s workforce programs—are prioritizing training and employment opportunities for residents in disproportionately impacted areas, reinforcing the industry’s role in equitable economic development.

"As Green Flower expands its offerings with more comprehensive certificate programs and
career development resources—including emerging areas such as Medical Cannabis Specialist
training—Southern remains committed to preparing a skilled workforce that meets the demands
of this evolving marketplace," Feest said. "Through this partnership, Southern is not only helping
individuals gain in-demand credentials but also strengthening community engagement and
supporting local economic growth. By equipping learners with the tools to succeed, we aim to
empower more people to transition into sustainable, high-growth careers within the cannabis
space."

Six Cannabis Career-Focused Certificates

The new suite includes six online programs that align with the cannabis industry’s most in-
demand job sectors, creating a clear, credible path for students to enter the industry:

• Cannabis Associate Certificate (8 weeks, $850) – Provides a comprehensive foundation
in cannabis policy, plant science, industry sectors, and compliance essentials, giving
students the knowledge and vocabulary employers expect when hiring. This program
makes students job-ready for entry-level roles across the industry in just eight weeks.
• Cannabis Cultivation Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) – Prepares students for cultivation
roles across indoor, outdoor, and greenhouse environments.
• Cannabis Product Development Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) – Teaches how to develop
cannabis products from extraction to finished goods, including concentrates, edibles,
beverages, topicals, and more.
• Cannabis Retail & Sales Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) – Equips students with product
knowledge, sales skills, and operational best practices to succeed in dispensary and brand
sales roles.
• Cannabis Compliance Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) – Trains students to manage
compliance across cultivation, retail, and manufacturing operations.
• Medical Cannabis Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) – Equips students to guide safe and effective cannabis use, preparing them for roles in clinics, dispensaries, and other patient- focused settings.

The Cannabis Career Resource Center

Recognizing that education alone isn’t enough for career success, Green Flower and Southern
provide every certificate student with access to the Cannabis Career Resource Center, which
offers:
• Continuing Education Hub – Additional resources covering resume and interview
support, leadership development, and cannabis entrepreneurship.

• Employer Access – Direct links to vetted cannabis companies actively hiring for in-
demand roles.

• Exclusive LinkedIn Community – A private group for students and alumni to connect,
collaborate, and grow professionally.

A Clear Path into the Cannabis Workforce

As the cannabis industry professionalizes, employers are increasingly seeking candidates with
formal training and recognized credentials. These new certificate programs deliver the specific
skills and industry knowledge that help professionals stand out and find jobs in this competitive,
fast-growing field.

The first cohort begins January 13, 2026, with new start dates offered every eight weeks.

To learn more or enroll, visit https://www.southernct.edu/owll.