Community College of Denver (CCD) has launched the first Cannabis Business program in Colorado. This new degree fills an education gap in the field of cannabis, which is the fastest-growing industry in the United States.

Created in close collaboration with our cannabis industry partners, this new program offers students the opportunity to earn an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree designed to prepare them to become business managers and operators within a cannabis enterprise. The program combines a mix of the core business, management, and marketing curriculum with applied cannabis-related courses. It provides students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience essential to operate a cannabis business within legal constraints.

“CCD is committed to not only creating meaningful career opportunities for our community, but we are also in the unique position to lead in diversifying the cannabis industry,” said Dr. Marielena DeSanctis, President of Community College of Denver. “Thanks to our strong ties to the local business community, we are able to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the fastest-growing industry in the U.S.”

In addition to classroom work, this 2-year A.A.S program offers internships that provide students with the opportunity to supplement their coursework with practical work experience related to their educational program.

“This new innovative program will allow our students to think critically about cannabis legislation, growing, distributing/selling, and the social impact of the industry,” said Dr. John Frost, faculty and chair for CCD’s Cannabis program. “CCD graduates of the program obtain industry-recognized credentials and build a record of work and hands-on experience.”

After completion, students with the A.A.S. can either start working immediately or continue in pursuit of a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Cannabis Science and Operations, which CCD plans to offer in the future.

This new program is offered both in the classroom and online and is now registering for the fall semester, which begins on August 23. Scholarships and financial aid are available to those who qualify.

Learn more at CCD.edu/CannabisBusiness

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About CCD

Serving more than 8,000 students annually, the Community College of Denver offers a high-quality education in a diverse setting that prepares students to transfer to a four-year school or enter the workforce with in-demand skills. Our shared downtown campus gives students a full college experience, our professors & small class sizes offer personalized attention, and our low tuition rate is a smart choice, costing students about one-half to one-third of a 4-year university. Learn more at ccd.edu.