Build a foundation of cannabis production skills from classification to physiology to production management.
Credential Type
Undergraduate Certificate
Cost (2024)
$4,664
Delivery Format
Online
Program Length
11 Credit Hours
Enrollment
Fall or Spring
Eligibility Criteria
No degree required
Benefit 1
Master cannabis cultivation and industry regulations.
Benefit 2
Develop skills for managing cannabis production.
Benefit 3
Advance your career in the growing cannabis sector.
Overview
This certificate is for agricultural professionals, growers, and entrepreneurs interested in cannabis cultivation.
It allows you to explore in-depth courses on cannabis production and management to enhance your expertise and operational skills in this rapidly growing industry.
Skills You Will Learn
Upon completing this certificate, you will:
- Understand basic principles of botany as they apply to cultivating fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants, and cannabis.
- Use environmentally sound practices to create sustainable indoor and outdoor living spaces.
- Become a knowledgeable consumer in horticulture, developing skills in choosing and maintaining various plant types for health and well-being.
- Gain insight into the historical and contemporary use of plants in medicine across different cultures, including understanding medicinal chemicals in plants.
- Understand the scientific and vernacular classification of cannabis, which is critical for effective cultivation and product development.
- Master indoor and outdoor cannabis cultivation methods, including understanding growth cycles, strain selection, and environmental controls.
- Learn how to manage and optimize the production of cannabis-derived compounds such as essential oils, psychoactive compounds, fibers, and seeds.
- Study the biosynthesis and functions of cannabis phytochemicals, learning extraction and analysis techniques applicable to research and industry.
- Develop skills in quality control and safety testing of cannabis products, adhering to regulatory standards.
- Critically evaluate scientific literature and health claims related to cannabis, enhancing industry research literacy and decision-making skills.
Build Skills that Matter
Gain the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in your field and create meaningful impact.
Course Details
The Cannabis Production & Management Certificate is an 11-hour program.
To earn this certificate, you'll complete the following:
- HORT 101 - Introduction to Horticulture
- HORT 106 - The Sustainable Home Garden
- CPSC 180 - Medical Plants and Herbology
- CPSC 480 - Cannabis Classification and Management
- CPSC 481 - Principles and Practices of Cannabis Flower Production
- CPSC 485 - Cannabis Phytochemistry
CPSC 480 Cannabis Classification and Management is required for all students.
If you opt to take HORT 100 or HORT 106, only one course (3 credit hours) will count towards the requirement.
Earn a grade of C or better in 11 credit hours of classwork
Coursework cannot be used to qualify for multiple certificates.
How to Enroll
Applying for this Certificate
Current University of Illinois students are eligible to enroll in the courses each semester (Fall, Spring, Summer). Start your certificate.
Non-current students may also enroll in courses as a non-degree student. You can learn more about the non-degree process or start your application. For questions about the process, please contact acesonline@illinois.edu.
Receiving your Certificate
For all students, after courses are completed, confirm your completion of the requirements.
Explore ACES Online
Our online education is flexible and accessible, enabling learners to advance their careers, develop new skills, and connect with peers.