Harper College

Cannabis Science and Therapeutics Certificate

Cannabis growth

Cannabis Science and Therapeutics Certificate

Get started in an emerging industry

Career options Education icon


  • Budtender
  • Cannabis Cultivation
  • Dispensary Manager
  • Patient Care Specialist
  • Sales Representative

With cannabis and related products legalization in Illinois, the cannabis cultivation and sales industry is rapidly expanding. Now is a great time to get started in this emerging industry.

The Cannabis Science and Therapeutics Certificate program focuses on best practices in dispensary operations and therapeutics along with cannabis policy, law and advocacy. You will gain experience and build your professional network through an on-site industry internship.

Cannabis science courses taken at Harper can also be transferred to Pennsylvania Institute of Technology's Bachelor of Science in Cannabis Business program. See our Cannabis Science Transfer Information page for details.

Certificate program requirements

This 17 credit-hour certificate program consists of lecture presentations, and an internship arranged at local non-profit organizations within the cannabis industry. This certificate is useful for individuals planning to enter the cannabis industry. In addition to history, policy and laws related to cannabis, the certificate presents best practices in cannabis dispensary operations, and cannabis therapeutics. Students will also learn about the importance of advocacy within the cannabis industry.

As an emerging industry, there are many diverse employment opportunities related to cannabis. Cannabis cultivation, sales, infusion, and product development represent a few of the commonly sought-after cannabis careers.

Program Requirements

Program Requirements (Hours required: 17)
NumberCourse TitleCredits
Required
CNB 101Introduction to Cannabis3
CNB 102Cannabis Law and Policy3
CNB 104Cannabis Pharmacology3
CNB 105Dispensary Operations3
CNB 110Cannabis Therapeutics and Client Communication3
CNB 112Dispensary Advocacy Internship2
Total Hours17

Resources

For more information about the Cannabis Science and Therapeutics Certificate program, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700.

Last Updated: 9/30/26