The University of Lynchburg has launched a new suite of online Cannabis Career Certificate programs, developed in partnership with Green Flower, the leader in cannabis education.
The following new courses align with the cannabis industry’s most in-demand job sectors, creating a clear, credible path for students to enter the industry:
- Cannabis Associate Certificate (8 weeks, $850) — Teaches a comprehensive foundation in cannabis policy, plant science, industry sectors, and compliance essentials, giving students the knowledge and vocabulary employers expect when hiring.
- Cannabis Cultivation Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) — Teaches cultivation roles across indoor, outdoor, and greenhouse environments.
- Cannabis Product Development Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) — Teaches how to develop cannabis products from extraction to finished goods, including concentrates, edibles, beverages, topicals, and more.
- Cannabis Retail & Sales Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) — Teaches product knowledge, sales skills, and operational best practices to succeed in dispensary and brand sales roles.
- Cannabis Compliance Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) — Teaches how to manage compliance across cultivation, retail, and manufacturing operations.
- Medical Cannabis Specialist (16 weeks, $2,200) — Teaches safe and effective cannabis use, preparation for roles in clinics, dispensaries, and other patient-focused settings.
“We’re proud to collaborate with Green Flower to deliver high-quality, workforce-aligned cannabis education,” said John A. Zinn III, executive director of the Professional Development Institute. “We’ve seen the strongest interest in medical and healthcare-focused cannabis courses, which aligns with the University of Lynchburg’s strengths in health sciences and medical education.”
The first cohort begins on Tuesday, Jan. 13, with new start dates offered every eight weeks. To learn more about the new courses and enroll, visit pdi.lynchburg.edu.
Courses feature 50-plus cannabis industry leaders and subject-matter experts, updated curricula, accessible pricing, and robust career support through Green Flower’s Cannabis Career Resource Center — all designed to help people start or grow their cannabis careers.
Recognizing that education alone isn’t enough for career success, Green Flower and the University of Lynchburg provide every certificate participant with access to the Cannabis Career Resource Center, which offers:
- Continuing Education Hub — Additional resources covering resume and interview support, leadership development, and cannabis entrepreneurship.
- Employer Access — Direct links to vetted cannabis companies actively hiring for in-demand roles.
- Exclusive LinkedIn Community — A private group for participants and alumni to connect, collaborate, and grow professionally.
“These new Cannabis Career Certificates are built to match exactly what employers are hiring for in each sector of the cannabis industry,” said Max Simon, Green Flower’s CEO and founder.
About Green Flower
Founded in 2014, Green Flower is the industry leader in cannabis education, empowering thousands of professionals, regulators, and businesses with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the legal cannabis industry.
Green Flower’s content and technology platform powers cannabis education programs at leading universities and colleges nationwide and provides learning and compliance solutions for cannabis companies of all sizes.
About the Professional Development Institute:
The Professional Development Institute empowers individuals, organizations, and communities by providing high-quality noncredit certificates, professional training programs, and lifelong learning opportunities.
Through flexible online courses, strategic industry partnerships, and a learner-centered mission, PDI helps people build skills, advance careers, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving world. Learn more at pdi.lynchburg.edu.
