Since licensed sales of recreational cannabis became legal in New Jersey in 2022, career opportunities in the billion-dollar industry have grown rapidly—and some colleges and universities in the state are getting in on the action.
Rowan University’s new Institute for Cannabis Research, Policy & Workforce Development has classes and degrees in three tracks: the Center for Cannabinoid Science and Therapies, the Center for Workforce Development, and the Socio-Behavioral, Security and Law Enforcement Cannabis Center. Rowan also offers two certificates in cannabis studies in its School of Professional Studies programs, for those looking to gain a better understanding of the socio-behavioral, legal impact and enforcement aspects of medical and recreational cannabis. The certificates are in both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Rowan University’s cannabis classes “fill up the minute we offer them,” says Provost Dr. Tony Lowman.
The cannabis classes have been extremely popular with students at Rowan, says Provost Dr. Tony Lowman, adding that the institute started in late 2021.
“The cannabis classes fill up the minute we offer them; the science tracks have good numbers, too,” he says. “We’re seeing a broad spectrum of jobs being created around this industry, and there’s a lot of work to be done.”