Southern Connecticut State University’s Office of Workforce and Lifelong Learning (OWLL) has 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 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 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.
About Southern Connecticut State University
Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) is Connecticut’s first and only Carnegie-classified Research II university, recognized for its high research activity and commitment to innovation. As a leading public research institution, SCSU is dedicated to academic excellence, community engagement, access, and opportunity. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, SCSU has a rich history dating back to 1893 and fosters a supportive learning environment that empowers students to become responsible global citizens.
Our world-class faculty and diverse student body collaborate on research and initiatives that address critical societal issues, driving positive change in our local community and beyond. SCSU has been named a Military Friendly® School for three consecutive years and is recognized as a top-producing Fulbright institution, underscoring its dedication to opening doors and expanding opportunities for students of all backgrounds.
About Green Flower
Founded in 2014, Green Flower is the industry leader in cannabis education, empowering thousands of professionals, regulators, and businesses with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the legal cannabis industry. Green Flower’s content and technology platform powers cannabis education programs at leading universities and colleges nationwide and provides learning and compliance solutions for cannabis companies of all sizes.
