Harper College will be closed Monday, December 23 through Wednesday, January 1 for Winter Break.
Career options 
With cannabis and related products legalization in Illinois, the cannabis cultivation and sales industry is rapidly expanding. Now is a great time to get started in this emerging industry.
The Cannabis Science and Therapeutics Certificate program focuses on best practices in dispensary operations and therapeutics along with cannabis policy, law and advocacy. You will gain experience and build your professional network through an on-site industry internship.
This 17 credit-hour certificate program consists of lecture presentations, and an internship arranged at local non-profit organizations within the cannabis industry. This certificate is useful for individuals planning to enter the cannabis industry. In addition to history, policy and laws related to cannabis, the certificate presents best practices in cannabis dispensary operations, and cannabis therapeutics. Students will also learn about the importance of advocacy within the cannabis industry.
As an emerging industry, there are many diverse employment opportunities related to cannabis. Cannabis cultivation, sales, infusion, and product development represent a few of the commonly sought-after cannabis careers.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CNB 101 | Introduction to Cannabis | 3 |
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Description: Studies the history of cannabis, cannabis plant anatomy, and cannabis strains. Addresses methods of cannabis consumption, common cannabis myths, and the stigmatization of cannabis in the United States. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| CNB 102 | Cannabis Law and Policy | 3 |
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Description: Addresses the evolution of federal and state cannabis legislation. Examines legal aspects of licensed cannabis businesses. Distinguishes between state laws related to medical and recreational (or adult use) cannabis and provides an overview of the legal provisions under state law. Examines federal cannabis laws and review case law related to intellectual property, and patent, and trademark infringement within the cannabis industry. Students will engage in a foundational review of tax regulations, including 280e and 471. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| CNB 104 | Cannabis Pharmacology | 3 |
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Description: Presents the effects of various components of the cannabis plant and how the body responds to cannabis-based medications and therapeutic treatments. Teaches about the history of medical cannabis and studies the role of the Endocannabinoid system, in addition to the therapeutic effects of various methods of cannabis administration. The course will also address the fundamental pharmacological properties of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics as they influence routes of administration, drug distribution, drug levels in the body, and adverse reactions to cannabis use. Prerequisite: CNB 101 and CNB 102 with grades of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| CNB 105 | Dispensary Operations | 3 |
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Description: Introduces the student to the requirements of compliance for operation of a State of Illinois cannabis dispensary. Examines various cannabis strains and cannabis products. Addresses proper packaging, storage, and distribution along with regulatory policies and agencies in Illinois. Teaches proper dispensary security and safety protocols. Prerequisite: CNB 101 and CNB 102 with grades of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| CNB 110 | Cannabis Therapeutics and Client Communication | 3 |
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Description: Examines how cannabis is used as a therapeutic treatment for conditions commonly associated with diseases including, but not limited to chronic pain, cancer, AIDS, glaucoma, and autism. Studies the efficacy of cannabis in treating disease conditions, including conditions of the nervous, digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Teaches key concepts in oral communications and public speaking when interacting with clients in a cannabis business establishment. Prerequisite: CNB 101 and CNB 102 with grades of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| CNB 112 | Dispensary Advocacy Internship | 2 |
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Description: Offers students an opportunity to actively engage in the cannabis industry by contributing to local efforts related to reforming cannabis legislation. Examines industry equity, and practices which have limited the participation of disenfranchised communities in the cannabis industry. Focuses on the history of cannabis prohibition, legislation, effective volunteerism, and community engagement. Students are required to complete a 40-hour internship with a cannabis nonprofit organization. Prerequisite: CNB 104, CNB 105, and CNB 110 with grades of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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For more information about the Cannabis Science and Therapeutics Certificate program, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.