About Oaksterdam University
Founded in 2007, Oaksterdam University is America’s first cannabis college, with educational roots going back to 1995. Since opening its doors, OU has been a forerunner in providing the highest quality and most comprehensive training available for the cannabis community and industry. Oaksterdam’s faculty is comprised of some of the most recognized professionals, attorneys, academics, cultivators and entrepreneurs in the world. Oaksterdam University has a history of being associated with not only successful cannabis business people but influential cannabis activists.
With the world’s only hands-on training facility, and over thirty thousand alumni from over thirty countries around the globe, Oaksterdam has established itself as the world’s premier cannabis college. Oaksterdam provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to lead and succeed in the evolving cannabis industry. Oaksterdam is widely recognized for its experience and leadership in the Cannabis industry, with exceptional academic learning and networking opportunities.
Our Mission is to Provide the Highest Quality Training for the Cannabis Industry
Peter DaSilva
Vision Statement
Oaksterdam University is a dynamic, diverse, and responsive academic institute dedicated to educating the global cannabis community and industry. Oaksterdam’s mission is to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to lead and succeed in the evolving cannabis industry. As America’s first cannabis college with the world’s only hands-on training facility, Oaksterdam is widely recognized for its experience and leadership in the Cannabis industry, exceptional academic learning and networking opportunities.
Our Courses
Oaksterdam University offers two different, career-oriented courses. Our Horticulture course provides hands-on learning in cannabis cultivation and plant management. The Classic Business course offers an overview of the Cannabis industry with a focus on business management, product development, and the policies and legalities of the industry.
We offer 14-week semester classes and 2 or 4 day intensive seminars throughout the year on the Oaksterdam University campus in Oakland, California. We also travel to various cities throughout the year to offer our seminars with our experienced instructors.
Peter DaSilva
OU is Growing!
As the industry continues to grow and evolve, so too is Oaksterdam University. Based on 10 years of history, experience, and industry affiliation, OU’s unique and historic position allows for continuous improvement and ongoing enhancement of our learning experience. We are redesigning our learning platform and growing our course offerings. Our curriculum will address multiple learning styles and provide thorough assessment and performance-based measurement.
By obtaining an Oaksterdam University course certificate, you will have achieved the most well known and highly regarded industry recognition of cannabis education.
Faculty & Staff
Our Faculty is comprised of some of the most well known names in the cannabis industry who do what they teach. From master growers and extract processors to seasoned dispensary owners, attorneys, and activists, our professors & instructors provide students with a comprehensive curriculum with learning outcomes that each cover different aspects of the cannabis industry.
Peter DaSilva
Chris Tuite
Cannabis Activism
Oaksterdam University is a hub for cannabis activism. Many of our staff and instructors are pioneers in the cannabis activist community. We, along with other cannabis businesses in our local Oakland area, play a vital role in revitalizing our neighborhood and serving the community.
Activism and engagement are encouraged at Oaksterdam University and discussed in some of our classes. We provide tools and information to assist our students to get involved in local, state, and national cannabis policy reform efforts.
Campus
The Oaksterdam University campus is located on the north end of downtown Oakland, between downtown proper, the Lakeside, and the financial district. Only a few blocks away from City Hall, and across the street from the historic Fox Theater, Oaksterdam is in the heart of a revitalized and vibrant downtown Oakland.
In addition to our classroom space, Oaksterdam maintains a Horticulture lab and is home to the Cannabis and Hemp museum. The Patient ID Center (PIDC), home to state issued Medical ID cards and a large cannabis book selection, is accessible through the Oaksterdam classroom.
Certification
Oaksterdam University offers certification to students who pass their mid terms and final exams with a 75% score or higher. Certification is only a requirement for students who would like to use Oaksterdam University as a reference for employment.
Certificate of Achievement
Attend (or make up) all classes and labs, complete class lab project & complete the final exam with a score of 75% or greater.
Valedictorian Certificate of Achievement
Certificate of Achievement with Honors as Valedictorian
Attend (without make-ups) all classes and labs, complete class lab project & complete the final exam with the highest score in the class.
Why Oaksterdam University?
- Over 30,000 graduates from over 30 countries
- Over 150 faculty members
- Indoor & outdoor horticulture training
- Business, medical & legal courses available
- Hands-on education, horticulture labs & grow room design
- Network with professionals & establish roots in the industry
- Industry pioneers & authors of Prop 215 & Senate Bill 420
- Our faculty are the most recognized in the industry
- Our Alumni are the most active in the world
- We don’t just teach the law, we helped write it
Student & Alumni Benefits
Oaksterdam University students benefit from classes taught by experienced cannabis industry professionals as well as networking opportunities with faculty and peers. With the world’s original hands-on cannabis training facility, students will gain the experience, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed and lead in the cannabis industry. Our labs and workshops supply students with hands-on opportunities to work directly with horticulture equipment and cannabis plants in various stages.
America's First
Founded in 2007, OU is America’s first cannabis college
Renowned Faculty
Our Faculty is comprised of the most well known activists, attorneys & growers
Network & Connect
Connect with peers and professionals and establish roots in the industry
Hands-on Education
Work directly with cannabis in all stages in our Horticulture Labs & Workshops
Certifications
Achieve an Oaksterdam University Cannabis Industry Certification
Employment Listings
Access our job board to receive the latest employment opportunities available to graduates
Volunteer Program
Students & Alumni can volunteer to work in our horticulture facility to further their hands-on education
Internships
Alumni can apply to our 16 week Alumni internship program
Awards & Accolades
Cannabist Golden Pineapple 2016
Tax Award
LEAP
As Seen On
Testimonials
"Oaksterdam university was the foundation to my learning in the cannabis industry, I took both the classic and horticulture semester. They gave me all the tools I needed to grow while attending"
Justin C."Best cannabis college I have went to. Better than online cannabis classes. Faculty and staff are very welcoming."
Matthew Rosales"This was the best money I have ever spent! The staff was hands on and incredible and the knowledge they provided all of us will last a lifetime and help spread the truth about the benefits of cannabis."
Sharon Brophy"Best educational institution of its kind. I enjoyed every minute.
All the lectures were informative, helpful and professional."
Jamie Wallace
