University of New England Launches Online Cannabis Certification Program

The 16-week program will offer certifications in cultivation, retail, sales, and compliance.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The University of New England in Biddeford, Maine is launching a new 16-week online program where students can earn certifications in various aspects of the cannabis industry, including cultivation, retail, sales, and compliance. The school is also offering an 8-week cannabis associate certificate.

Why it matters

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, there is increasing demand for skilled workers. This new program from the University of New England aims to help meet that demand and provide students with the specialized knowledge and credentials needed to enter the cannabis workforce.

The details

The 16-week cannabis certification program will cover topics such as cultivation, retail operations, sales, and regulatory compliance. Students who complete the program will earn industry-recognized certifications. The school is also launching an 8-week cannabis associate certificate for those seeking a quicker path to credentials.

  • The cannabis certification programs are set to begin in early March 2026.
  • The 16-week certification program will run for 16 weeks.
  • The 8-week cannabis associate certificate will take 8 weeks to complete.

The players

University of New England

A private university located in Biddeford, Maine that is launching the new online cannabis certification programs.

Ed Cervone

The associate dean of the College of Professional Studies at the University of New England, who is overseeing the development of the cannabis certification programs.

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What they’re saying

“The industry is kind of setting out now in terms of demand and supply, and we're excited to be at the ground floor helping out the main workforce.”

— Ed Cervone, Associate Dean, College of Professional Studies (wmur.com)

What’s next

The cannabis certification programs are scheduled to begin enrolling students in early March 2026 for the first cohort.

The takeaway

This new online cannabis certification program from the University of New England represents an important step in providing specialized education and credentials to meet the growing workforce needs of the rapidly expanding cannabis industry.