Get started on your cannabis career. Classes begin December 2nd, save $150 with code UCMERCEDFIRST

Your Cannabis Career Starts Here

Become a Cannabis Cultivation Retail Extraction Professional in 9 Weeks

Study online and on your own time

Why Enroll At UC Merced Extension

Study On Your Own Time

As soon as you enroll, you'll have instant access to our online program, allowing you to study at your own pace, whenever and wherever it suits you.

Expert Instructors

Crafted by top industry leaders, our program is tailored to provide you with essential knowledge required to thrive as a cannabis professional.

Top Cannabis Curriculum

Acquire the fundamental knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to thrive in the dynamic cannabis industry.

Employer Network

Completing a cannabis program gives you exclusive access to the GF Institute Employer Network.

Join A Fast-Growing Industry

The cannabis industry is growing at an unprecedented rate and the demand for skilled professionals is higher than ever. As the industry continues to expand, new opportunities are emerging in fields such as cultivation, retail, extraction, product development, and more. Joining the cannabis industry means being part of a movement that’s changing lives and creating positive change. Plus, with a wide range of positions available, from entry-level to executive roles, there’s a place for everyone in this rapidly growing industry. 

To become an in-demand cannabis professional, it’s important to have the right education and training. By investing in your education, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this dynamic industry and advance your career to the next level. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the cannabis industry’s growth and secure a promising future – take the first step today and start your journey towards a rewarding career in cannabis.

Explore Cannabis Programs

cultivation
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Cannabis Cultivation Specialist Program
9 weeks | 100% Online | $750 | Payment Plan Available
Our 9-week onlineprogram offers a comprehensive understanding of the cannabis industry and cultivation best practices. The program features a diverse range of learning resources, including engaging video lectures, informative readings, and interactive e-learning modules that equip you with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in the thriving cannabis cultivation industry. Upon completion, you’ll have the credibility and knowledge necessary to establish a successful career in cannabis cultivation, work in indoor or outdoor grow operations, or even launch your own cultivation business.
Dispensary
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Cannabis Retail Specialist Program
9 weeks | 100% Online | $750 | Payment Plan Available

Delivered through a blend of engaging video lectures, comprehensive readings, and interactive e-learning modules, our 9-week onlineprogram is exclusively taught by distinguished industry experts and operators. This program is designed to equip you with the fundamental knowledge of the cannabis supply chain, as well as the essential skills to succeed in the dynamic cannabis retail environment. By completing this program, you’ll acquire the credibility and knowledge required to build a rewarding career in cannabis retail, work in a dispensary, or even start your own dispensary.

Manufacture
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Cannabis Extraction & Product Development Specialist Program
9 weeks | 100% Online | $750 | Payment Plan Available

Our 9-week onlineprogram, taught exclusively by renowned industry experts and operators, aims to empower you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a highly-regarded and sought-after cannabis professional. With a focus on developing and manufacturing various cannabis products, including edibles, tinctures, and topicals, this program provides a comprehensive understanding of the cannabis supply chain and foundational skills required to excel in the industry.

Learn 100% Online

With 24/7 access to course material, you can learn on your own terms and fit your coursework into your existing schedule. Our user-friendly interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it simple for anyone to access our program from anywhere in the world.
iPhone showing course dashboard

“These programs provide a great foundation for anyone interested in a career in the cannabis industry. This type of training will help you stand out to hiring managers and companies alike in this highly competitive industry.”

– Jay Czarkowski,
Founding Partner, Canna Advisors

What You'll Gain

A Certificate of Completion 
Upon completion of the program, you’ll earn a certificate of completion from UC Merced Extension that you can add to your resume to help advance your career.
A Digital Credential
Your digital credential, issued through Credly, is a digital badge that you can publish on LinkedIn and other online platforms to highlight your accomplishment. Learn more about digital credentials.
Advanced Rankings for Relevant Job Openings 
Careersincannabis.com allows program holders to incorporate their digital badge into their profile on this industry job board which is utilized by some of the largest and most well-respected cannabis companies in the world, automatically improving your ranking and FitScore for relevant job openings. Learn more about this exclusive benefit for program holders. 
Access to an Exclusive Employer Network
You’ll gain access to the GF Institute Employer Network, designed to help you propel your career forward with employment-focused webinars and opportunities.

Find a Rewarding Career in Cannabis

our programs are designed to prepare you for a wide range of cannabis jobs that can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career in this fast-growing industry. Whether you’re interested in working in cultivation, manufacturing, retail, or any other aspect of the cannabis industry, our programs will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Our expert instructors provide hands-on training and real-world experience, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. 

With our programs, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a fulfilling career in the cannabis industry, helping to shape this exciting field and make a positive impact on people’s lives. There is a wide range of available positions, ranging from entry-level to executive-level roles in this fast-evolving industry.

The median salaries shown here are sourced from the 2023 Vangst Cannabis Industry Salary Guide, which identifies various cannabis roles and average salaries throughout the United States. It’s important to note that these figures are provided for informational purposes only and do not guarantee that you will earn the same salary or obtain the same job title upon completing our programs.

What Participants Are Saying

Featured Student Spotlight

Discover the numerous benefits of taking our courses by hearing from Alison, a real student, who has already embarked on this journey.

Featured Employer Partner

We are dedicated to helping you succeed in your cannabis career. That’s why we partner with local employers who are interested in hiring people who have earned their cannabis program from Mt. San Jacinto College. Our Employer Partners are local cannabis companies that recognize the quality of education our students receive and work directly with us to offer career opportunities to those who enroll in our programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

All programs will begin on one of the following dates

      • Dec 2, 2024
      • Feb 3, 2025

Students should expect to dedicate around six hours per week to complete coursework in this program.

These programs are currently not eligible for federal aid; however we do offer a payment plan.

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About UC Merced Extension

UC Merced Extension offers access to the university’s academic courses through Open University and provides professional courses in a variety of industry fields (education, business, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, etc.). UC Merced Extension partners with regional community initiatives and organizations to boost economic and social development with a focus on delivering courses in convenient and flexible formats, including fully online, hybrid, in-person, and custom modalities.

UC Merced Extension offers workforce-responsive, non-degree credentials and credential pathways that provide opportunities to upskill and re-skill. We can develop and deliver skills-based, alternative credential programs that align with employer needs and high demand jobs. Alternative credentials are non-degree, professional credit, certificate, stackable, micro-credentials, bootcamps, etc.