Maryland University of Integrative Health Launches Cannabis Science Program

The Maryland University of Integrative Health has launched its Cannabis Science program becoming the second university in the state to offer a graduate-level cannabis program, the Baltimore Business Journal reports. The 15-credit certificate program is approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission and will focus on the plant’s holistic uses.

James Snow, dean of academic affairs at MUIH, said the program fits into a broader spectrum of the university’s herbal and alternative medicine programs. He added that it would be a good fit for individuals interested in a job in the industry or those with clinical or industry backgrounds who want to expand their knowledge on the potential medical uses of cannabis.

“We want our students to leave this program understanding cannabis, in itself, is not a fix-all product. We want them to have critical thinking about the use of this plant, and a balanced perspective of what we currently know about cannabis, what we don’t know, what it’s limitations are and how we can have informed conversations about it with the general public.” – Snow to the Business Journal

The first class includes 20 students who can complete the coursework entirely online in about one year. Program tuition is about $13,000. Snow said in addition to learning about medicinal cannabis uses, the program will also feature classes on quality control. He expects a second class to begin the program in the spring semester.

Last year, the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy launched the nation’s first master’s degree program in medical cannabis.