Curriculum
We begin the course by reviewing some of the foundations of cannabis, including the history of humans’ interaction with the plant and the policies which govern its production and use. We also review the efforts of the advocacy pioneers who came before us and fought for the right to access medical cannabis, and learn more about how we can continue that tradition in our personal and professional lives.
We discuss methods of ingesting cannabis and offer a research-based look at its therapeutic effects and potential side effects. We illustrate how the cannabis plant interacts with the human endocannabinoid system. The course then details the various methods of extraction for the purpose of creating cannabis products. We walk through the laboratory processes that isolate cannabinoids and terpenes from plant matter, and cover the various ways these extracted compounds can be used in products, along with various delivery systems.
After establishing a basic understanding of processing and manufacturing, we turn to how it is grown. We review the primary elements needed to launch and successfully run a commercial cannabis cultivation operation, covering a wide variety of topics such as cultivation science, design, financing, licensing, and regulations.
Then, we cover economic principles as they pertain to cannabis markets, which are heavily influenced by laws and regulations. We discuss the economic benefits and financial barriers the cannabis industry experiences. We take students through the steps of first choosing a cannabis business model, then developing a business plan around the chosen model, including creation of a brand identity that reflects the student’s vision, mission, and values.
Finally, we take that business model and put it into action, showing you how to launch and oversee the daily operations of an effective and efficient cannabis business. We walk through special licensing and permit acquisition, the value of budgeting and financial management, standard operating procedures, hiring practices, ethical operations and leadership.
Throughout the course, projects and mastery exercises ensure that the student understands the material and challenges them to apply the knowledge.
Classes:
- Advocacy for the Cannabis Industry
- History and Policies of Cannabis
- Federal vs. State Law
- Introduction to Cannabis Science
- Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis
- Methods of Ingestion and Delivery Systems
- Introduction to the Cannabis Supply Chain
- Economics of the Cannabis Industry
- Cannabis Business Licensing
- Branding and Marketing
- Cannabis Business Risks and Protections
- Cultivation Science and Compliance
- Business of Cannabis Cultivation
- Business Startup
- Business Management
- Facility Design Requirements
- Cultivation Financial Management
- Introduction to Extractions
- CBD and the Hemp Industry
About Our Live Virtual Classroom
Along with many major institutions, we have refocused our educational services to online and remote learning environments so you don't need to come to Oaksterdam, OU will come to YOU! This is an excellent way for you to build competency, qualifications, and confidence in your skillset immediately.
The live-classroom is an orchestrated blend of technology designed to provide the best student experience. Students will have access to the online course materials through a sophisticated Learning Management System with Mastery Exercises, Quizzes, and Exams to ensure comprehension.
The live-classroom environment expands upon the asynchronous online programs by also delivering live interactive lectures, demonstrations, and workshops led by our faculty of professional lawyers, cannabis growers, and business owners. Students can ask questions, participate in discussions, break out into working groups, interact with one another, and our Horticulture students can also show the instructors their own garden and plants to receive feedback on their progress!
Our live-environment provides the most comprehensive online cannabis learning experience available anywhere in the world.
Certification Program
A certificate of completion may be printed upon successfully passing the final exam and capstone project.
Live Video Lectures
Attend lectures from our world-renowned instructors in real-time.
Screen Sharing
Follow along with instructor’s slide presentations and virtual whiteboard.
Interactive Audio
Raise your hand to ask the instructor a question or join in on a class discussion.
Chatroom
Ask the instructor a question, chat with the class, or send private messages.
Breakout Sessions
Collaborate with your classmates in smaller groups to discuss the material and work on team projects.
