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This program is designed for entry and mid-level professionals seeking to advance their knowledge and career opportunities in manufacturing, research and development, regulatory affairs, quality control, formulation, and analytical chemistry within the medical cannabis industry. It is especially well-suited for:

• Professionals in the medical cannabis industry are seeking advanced scientific and industry knowledge
• Scientists and researchers interested in cannabinoid chemistry and related natural products research
• Regulatory affairs professionals looking to deepen their understanding of industry standards and regulations
• Working professionals aiming to transition into medical cannabis, product development, and research-focused careers

Should I Choose the Certificate or the Master’s Program?

The Graduate Certificate is an excellent option for individuals seeking a shorter, more focused course of study or for those who want to explore the field before committing to a master’s degree. It provides foundational and industry-relevant knowledge in a flexible format.

Students who complete the certificate program and decide to continue their education may transition into the M.S. program by formally applying for admission. Credits earned in the certificate program can be applied toward the master’s degree, making it a convenient pathway for continued study.

Complete the Certificate in 1 Year

Industry-Relevant

Gain knowledge and skills directly applicable to the medical cannabis industry.

Experienced and Research-Focused Faculty

Learn from experienced professionals and researchers in the field.

Flexible Course Selection

With only one required course, you can choose any three of the remaining four to customize your learning experience.

• GRE Score
  • A GRE score is not required for admission.
• Grade-Point Average (GPA)
  • Applicants should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for the last 66 hours of undergraduate coursework. At least 22 hours must be in basic or applied sciences. Prerequisite coursework includes chemistry and biology, though relevant work experience may substitute for these courses. Official transcripts must be sent directly from your institution to the UM Graduate School. Only the Graduate School can post transcripts to your application file.
• Personal Statement
  • Applicants must submit a personal statement describing:
  • Career goals
  • Academic and professional preparation for graduate study
  • Motivation for Pursuing the Graduate Certificate in Medical Cannabis
• Letters of Recommendation
  • At least two letters of recommendation are required from professional or academic references. Recommenders must upload their letters directly through the online application system.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Applicants must provide a current resume or CV that outlines:
  • Educational background
  • Professional experience
  • Relevant skills, certifications, or other experiences
  • This document helps the admissions committee evaluate your readiness for graduate-level study and the professional context of your application.

Fall: July 1

Spring: November 1

Summer: April 1

This fully online certificate features classes that explore:

• Subjects such as phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology.
• Research and development.
• Analytical techniques.
• Policy and formulation in the medical cannabis industry.

Fall and Spring term courses are completed in 6 weeks, while the Summer term course is completed in 4.

Students choose three of the remaining four courses to tailor the program to their goals:

• , First Fall REQUIRED
• , Second Fall
• , First Spring
• , Second Spring
• , Second Summer

The certificate program is part-time and can be completed within one year. Students are required to complete 12 credit hours.

Tuition

The cost per credit hour for the Graduate Certificate in Medical Cannabis is $675 for the Fall/Spring 2026–2027 academic year. Students can use the Tuition Calculator for additional assistance in estimating total program costs.

Financial Aid

At this time, financial aid is not available for students enrolled in the certificate program. However, financial aid opportunities are available for students pursuing the online M.S. in Dietary Supplements & Medical Cannabis program.

Students who complete the online Graduate Certificate program may apply all 12 credit hours earned toward the online M.S. in Dietary Supplements and Cannabis degree. This pathway allows students to build upon their certificate coursework while continuing their graduate education.

To transition into the M.S. program, students must first successfully complete the certificate program and then formally apply for admission to the M.S. degree program. Once admitted, students will be required to fulfill all remaining degree requirements for the master’s program.

Our online courses are delivered asynchronously, giving students the flexibility to learn on their own schedule while maintaining access to course materials at any time. This format is designed to support busy lifestyles, allowing students to complete assignments at their convenience as long as deadlines are met. Many of our students are working professionals, making this learning model an ideal balance between academic advancement and professional responsibilities.

Graduates of our program are well prepared to pursue a wide variety of career opportunities within the growing medical cannabis industry. The curriculum equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for roles in formulation and manufacturing, quality control and assurance, laboratory operations, regulatory affairs, product development, supply chain management, consulting, project management, sales and technical support, research coordination, and education and training. Our graduates leave prepared to contribute across multiple sectors of the industry and adapt to its evolving needs.

Due to the continued federal prohibition of cannabis, Congress has not authorized any exceptions permitting the use of VA education benefits for coursework related to cannabis. As such, VA education benefits cannot be applied to cannabis-related programs at this time.

Until further notice, students enrolling in such programs will be fully responsible for all associated tuition, fees, and program costs, as no VA funding will be approved.

We encourage students to consult with the School Certifying Officials in the Veteran and Military Services office for guidance prior to enrolling in any program involving cannabis related courses.

Contact veterans@olemiss.edu for more information.