Kent State University is broadening its cannabis education offerings with a new set of online career certificates designed to prepare students for roles in Ohio’s fast-growing marijuana industry.
The expansion comes as the state’s adult-use market continues to scale following voter approval of Issue 2, a change that has pushed Ohio’s cannabis economy passed the $3 billion mark.
More than 270 students have already enrolled since Kent State launched its cannabis education program in early 2024. University officials say the new programs are meant to meet rising employer demand as marijuana businesses seek applicants with formal training rather than only on-the-job experience.
“Kent State is committed to offering high-quality, workforce-aligned education that meets the needs of emerging industries in Ohio,” said Alicia Crowe, Ph.D., interim dean, Kent State University’s College of Education, Health and Human Services. “Our partnership with Green Flower and this expanded suite of certificate programs give learners the practical knowledge and credentials they need to compete for in-demand roles in the rapidly evolving cannabis field.”
The expanded suite includes six online certificates focused on the industry’s most common hiring areas: cannabis fundamentals, cultivation, product development, retail and sales, compliance and medical cannabis. Program lengths range from eight to 16 weeks, with curricula built around real-world skills tied directly to dispensaries, cultivation facilities and manufacturing operations. The goal is to make students job-ready for entry-level and mid-level positions across Ohio’s growing market.
Each certificate also comes with access to the Cannabis Career Resource Center, which offers résumé support, interview preparation, leadership training and connections to vetted employers. Students can join an exclusive online community for networking with other participants and industry professionals.
Ohio has added more than 1,300 legal cannabis jobs since 2023, and continued market expansion is expected to keep hiring strong. Leaders at Green Flower say the programs were built to reflect exactly what employers are seeking as the industry becomes more competitive and more professionalized.
Kent State’s first cohort for the new certificate tracks begins Jan. 13, 2026, with additional start dates offered throughout the year.
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