Roanoke College announced last week that it is launching a new catalog of continuing education courses in cannabis studies designed to help employers, health care providers, caregivers, growers and more gain a better understanding of the rapidly evolving world of cannabis.
The non-credit-bearing courses, which start this summer, will equip working professionals and other learners with up-to-date knowledge about the science and legal standing of cannabis in Virginia. Classes range in length from one-hour seminars to eight-hour programs.
The material is valuable for all learners whether it be people in related industries or people simply interested in learning more about this complex, timely topic, the college said.
Registration for courses is open now. Classes can be taken individually or as part of the pursuit of a professional certificate. No prior experience or knowledge is required.
“Cannabis is a topic on many minds these days as the federal and state landscapes continue to change in this multi-million-dollar industry,” said Professor DorothyBelle Poli, a biologist and director of the cannabis studies program. “To help navigate the botany, history, medical research and more, we developed (and are continuing to develop) courses to quickly update working knowledge for our community. These courses are unique and taught by experts in a face-to-face way to ensure all your questions are answered.”
The continuing education program marks the first time Roanoke has offered non-degree courses and certificates. It’s part of a series of what the college describes as “forward-thinking” steps being taken by faculty to meet the needs of a dynamic, competitive workforce.
The announcement comes shortly after the college forged new ground by becoming the first school in Virginia to offer a bachelor’s degree program in cannabis studies. Roanoke also recently announced new majors in other high-demand fields and a new master’s degree in education.
Creating continuing education opportunities for the region has been a point of study for a college task force. The cannabis courses are the first program to spring from that group’s work.
“Roanoke College continues to lead in innovation and community engagement,” said Kathy Wolfe, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college. “Certificates and short courses are in demand, and we want to provide access to these stackable credentials for a broad array of learners.”
The new courses will offer sessions starting as early as June 15 and continuing into fall and beyond. Eight courses comprise the inaugural catalog with more options in development.
Samples of course titles include Introduction to Cannabis Education, Cannabis for Caregivers and Patients, Cannabis and Corporate America, and The Logistics of Cannabis Production.
Courses will be offered in-person on Roanoke’s campus with expert instructors from biology, chemistry, horticulture, health care and more. In keeping with federal regulations, all plant products used in classwork will be hemp material containing less than 0.3% THC.
-The Salem Times-Register