Certification included when you enroll
in the online ©Master of Cannabis Program!
How to Open a Dispensary 
Get on the fast track to dispensary management! The How to Open a Dispensary Certificate is included when you enroll in the Master of Cannabis Program. It has informative lessons and videos that will teach you everything you need to run a dispensary, including startup, operations, retail management, cannabinoid medicine, marijuana products, administration methods, local laws, and more. Your certificate will give you the credentials you need to open or manage a dispensary or CBD/hemp store!
Gain the skills and knowledge you need to open, manage, or work at a marijuana dispensary.
How to Open a Dispensary Course FAQs
Is this cannabis college accredited?
Yes! We are the only cannabis education school in the world that has an internationally recognized accreditation provided by ANSI/IACET.
Is this how to open a dispensary certification course included in the Master of Cannabis Program?
Yes! This how to open a dispensary certification, and 9 certificates are included in the Master of Cannabis.
Is this how to open a dispensary course online or in person?
The how to open a cannabis dispensary course is 100% online. You can make your own schedule, and work from any device!
How long does it take to complete the Master of Cannabis Program?
Complete the required work in as little as 7 days (42 hrs of required content), or take your time (24 weeks of access) and enjoy hundreds of hours of how-to tutorials, resources, and 8 Ed Rosenthal e-books. There are no set class times and no homework, and anyone 18+ can enroll. If you need more time in the program it is easy to extend your access!
Does this course teach how to open a dispensary in all states that allow dispensary businesses?
Yes, this course covers how to open a dispensary in any state that allows dispensary businesses and has updated cannabis laws and regulations for all US states, Canada, and 50 countries worldwide.
What commonly asked questions about opening a cannabis dispensary will I have answered from this online course?
- What are the legal requirements to open a cannabis dispensary?
- How do I obtain the necessary licenses and permits for a cannabis dispensary?
- What are the startup costs involved in opening a cannabis dispensary?
- How can I secure funding for my cannabis dispensary?
- What type of location is best for a cannabis dispensary?
- What zoning laws and regulations must I comply with?
- How do I create a business plan for a cannabis dispensary?
- What are the most important factors in choosing a supplier for cannabis products?
- How do I ensure compliance with state and local cannabis laws?
- What kind of security measures are required for a cannabis dispensary?
- How do I manage inventory and track sales in a cannabis dispensary?
- What are the best practices for hiring and training staff for a dispensary?
- How can I market my cannabis dispensary effectively?
- What are the key challenges in operating a cannabis dispensary?
- How do I create a unique brand and customer experience for my dispensary?
- What software and technology do I need to run a cannabis dispensary?
- How do I handle banking and financial transactions in the cannabis industry?
- What insurance coverage is necessary for a cannabis dispensary?
- How do I stay updated on changes in cannabis laws and regulations?
- What are the most common mistakes to avoid when opening a cannabis dispensary?
Get the answers to all of these questions and much more!
If you want to stay on the legal side, there is a way to pursue it. That’s the training you get from the Cannabis Training University.
– Kevin O’Leary
Businessman
How to Open a Dispensary Topics
Cannabis Basics
What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis has been described as a weed, as a recreational drug, and as the latest craze in medical treatment. But what actually is it? This lesson will cover the origins of the cannabis plant and tell you what you need to know about cannabis strains and cultivars. The lesson covers these topics:
- Cannabis Plant Overview, including Origins of Cannabis,
Cannabis Cultivars, Cannabis Strains, Descriptions of Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, Hybrids, and Cannabis Ruderalis, Parts of the Cannabis Plant, Cannabis Seeds, Hemp Fiber, Cannabis Flowers, Cannabis Buds, Cannabis Nugs, and Cannabis Trichomes - The Difference Between Cannabis and Hemp
- Structure, Life Cycle, and Reproduction System of Cannabis Plants
- Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System
Cannabis Cultivars, Cannabis Strains, Descriptions of Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, Hybrids, and Cannabis Ruderalis, Parts of the Cannabis Plant, Cannabis Seeds, Hemp Fiber, Cannabis Flowers, Cannabis Buds, Cannabis Nugs, and Cannabis TrichomesComponents of Cannabis
A deep dive into compounds like THC, CBD, terpenes, and other components in cannabis that can have an impact on patients. The lesson covers these topics:
- The Primary Chemical Compounds in Cannabis, including Terpenes and Cannabinoids
- Entourage Effects of Cannabis Components
- Reasons to Use Cannabis Strains with THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, Beta Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Humulene, Alpha Pinene, Limonene, and Linalool
- Reasons to Avoid Cannabis Strains with THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, Beta Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Humulene, Alpha Pinene, Limonene, and Linalool
- THC Use with a Suppressed Endocannabinoid System (ECS), High Blood Pressure, Anxiety, Memory Issues
- Psychoactive Effects of THC, CBN, and THCV
- Dosing with THC, including Biphasic Effects
- THC Benefits for Mental State, the Nervous System, Inflammation, Cancer, Digestion, the Circulatory System, and Intraocular Pressure
- CBD Effects on Endocannabinoid Production and as a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)
- CBD Interaction with Chemotherapy, 5-HT1A Receptors, TRPV1-2 Vanilloid Receptors, AEA, Cytochrome P450 (CYP) Enzymes, and Drug Metabolization
- CBD Health Benefits for Blood Pressure, Healing the Gut, Epilepsy, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes, Appetite, Anxiety (Including THC-Induced Anxiety), Eating Disorders, Mental States, the Nervous System, Inflammation, Cancer, Digestion, Circulation, Skin Treatments, and Bone Growth
- CBN Medical Benefits for Sleep, Glaucoma, the Nervous System, Inflammation, Cancer, Appetite, Bone Growth, and the Eyes
- Health benefits of the Primary Cannabinoid CBG for Blood Pressure, Memory, Glaucoma, Inflammation, Mental Effects, the Nervous System, Cancer, IBS, Appetite, the Circulatory System, Psoriasis, and Bone Growth
- Health Benefits of CBC for Depression, Anxiety, Pain, Alzheimer’s Disease, Inflammation, Cancer, Acne
- Health Benefits of THCV for the Immune System, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Motor Control, Diabetes, Anxiety, Energy, Appetite Suppression, Epilepsy, Inflammation, and Bone Growth
- Monoterpenes and Sesquiterpenes
- The Presence of Terpenes in Cannabis Strains
- Terpenes and Infections (including MRSA)
- Beta Caryophyllene in Haze, Girl Scout Cookies, Skywalker OG, and Chem Dawg Strains
- Health Benefits of Beta Caryophyllene for Alcohol Addiction, Autoimmune Disorder, the Kidneys, Sleep Disorders, Reducing Cravings, Depression, as a Local Anesthetic, Depression, Inflammation, Cancer, the Digestive System, and IBS
- Myrcene in Indica Strains Like White Widow, Himalayan Gold, and Jack Herer
- Medicinal Benefits of Myrcene for Diabetes, Insomnia, Transdermal Absorption, Inflammation, Depression, Pain, and Cancer
- Alpha Pinene in Jack Herer Strain
- Alpha Pinene in Blue Dream, Trainwreck, Island Sweet Skunk, Romulan, Strawberry Cough, and Bubba Kush Strains
- Health Benefits of Alpha Pinene for Asthma, Alertness, Short-Term Memory, Pain, Inflammation, Cancer, and as a Bronchodilator
- Humulene in White Widow, Headband, and Sour Diesel Strains
- Medical Benefits of Humulene for Appetite, Transdermal Absorption, Inflammation, Cancer, and Pain
- Limonene in Super Lemon Haze, Pineapple Express, and Sweet Tangerine Strains
- Limonene Effects on A(2A) Receptors and Dopamine
- Health Benefits of Limonene for Anxiety, Depression, Mood, Absorption, Inflammation, Cancer, Gallstones, GER, and Acid Reflux
- Linalool in Lavender, Diamond Girl, and LA Confidential Strains
- Medicinal Benefits of Linalool for Nausea, Sleep, Anxiety, Depression, Pain, Seizures, Breast Cancer, Inflammation, and Acne
- Raphael Mechoulam and S. Ben-Shabbat’s Entourage Effect Research with Full Spectrum Medical Cannabis and Whole Plant Cannabis Medicine
- CBD and THC Interaction and Ratios
- Cannabis Entourage Effects on Anxiety, Blood Pressure, Appetite, Memory, Attention, Insomnia, Sleep, and Addiction
- Cannabis Strains that Reduce Cravings, Increase Alertness, Improve Circulation, and Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Cannabis Entourage Effects for Acne, Alzheimer’s Disease, Reducing Anxiety, Autoimmune Disorders, Lowering Blood Pressure, Mending Broken Bones, Cancer, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcers, Depression, Diabetes, Epilepsy, Glaucoma, Inflammation, Muscle Spasms, Nausea, Neurological Damage, Pain Relief, Sleep, and Insomnia
- Synthetic Cannabis and THC Analogs (like Spice and K2) Used as Pharmaceuticals, as Recreational Drugs, and for Research on Tumors, Inflammation, and Blood Flow
Cannabis Products
The cannabis industry is growing exponentially. With growth comes a variety of new products—so many, in fact, that choosing the right one can be confusing to both new and experienced users. This lesson breaks down the most common products available at dispensaries. The lesson covers these topics:
- Differences between Cannabis Products, including Cannabinoid Content, Potency, Activation (Raw vs. Decarboxylated), Classification based on Strain Names or Cultivars, Classification Based on Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid, Terpene Content
- CBD:THC Ratio, THC-Dominant Products, CBD-Dominant Products, Hemp Products, 1:1 CBD:THC Ratios, CBD Products
- How Potency is Shown on Labels for Cannabis Flower, Cannabis Concentrates, and Edibles, including Percentages and Number of Milligrams
- Raw Cannabinoids, including THCA, CBDA, and Non-Activated Products
- How to Read Cannabis Product Labels, including Tracking and Regulatory Information, Effects, Cannabinoid Content, Activation Status, Potency, Contaminants, Nutrition Information, and Terpene Content
- Products Sold at Dispensaries, including Flowers, Concentrates, Edibles, Topicals, Transdermals, and Other Infused Products
- How to Find High Quality Top Shelf Bulk Cannabis Flowers, Buds, Joints, Blunts, Pre-Rolls, and Shake including Bud Size and Potential Cannabis Contaminants, Pesticides, Mold, and Seeds
- Characteristics of Low Quality Cannabis, including Scent, Color, Finger Feel, Throat Feel
- Cannabis Flower Consumption Methods, including Smoking and Vaporizing
- Input Materials for Cannabis Extracts, including Flash-Frozen Fresh Plants, Dried Cannabis Flowers, Dried Cannabis Trim, and Hemp
- Cannabis Extraction Methods, including Solventless Concentrates (Kief, Bubble Hash, Pressed Hashish, Rosin) and Solvent-Based Extracts (RSO, BHO, PHO, Ethanol Extracts, CO2 Oil, Distillate, Isolate, Water-Soluble Isolate, Nano-Isolate)
- Cannabis Concentrate Product Consistencies, including Budder, Shatter, Crumble, Wax, Live Resin, Sugar, Rocks and Sauce, and Vape Cartridges
- How Cannabis Edibles Work, including LDL Delivery, Liver Metabolites, Dosing, Digestive System Issues, and Sublingual Delivery
- Ingredients in Cannabis Edibles, including Flower Infusions in Oil, Distillates, Isolates, Full-Spectrum Extracts, Broad-Spectrum Extracts, Non-Cannabis Ingredients, and Allergens
- Differences between Full-Spectrum cannabis oil, Broad-Spectrum hemp oil, Cannabis Distillates, Isolates, and Nano-Isolates
- Cannabis Edibles, including Cannabis-Infused Oils, Cannabis Tinctures, Raw Cannabis Tinctures, Cannabis-Infused Capsules, Cannabis-Infused Foods, Gummies, Hard Candies, Savory Edibles Cookies, Brownies, Cannabis-Infused Beverages (Soda, Coffee, Tea, Beer, Energy Drinks)
- Cannabis Concentrates and Their Consumption, including Vaporizing with Vaporizers, Earth Stones, and Pens, How to Dab, and Dab Equipment (Dab Rigs, Nails, E-Nails, Torches, Dab Tools, Domes, Carb Caps, Terp Pearls, Quartz Inserts, Reverse Tweezers, Bangers)
- Cannabis-Infused Topical and Transdermal Products, including Creams, Lotions, Balms, Patches, and Roll-Ons
- Cannabis Topicals and Skin Sensitivity, Antioxidant Properties, Antimicrobial Properties, Acne Treatment, Onset and Duration, Pain Reduction, Inflammation Treatment, Itch Medicine
- Other Dispensary Products including Cannabis-Infused Inhalers, Bath Bombs, Sexual Lubricants, Suppositories, Sublingual Strips, Moon Rocks, Infused Joints, Shampoo, Topicals
Cannabis As Medicine
History of Medical Cannabis
A look at the origins of cannabis as medicine, and how the practice has evolved to meet the needs of modern patients. The lesson covers these topics:
- Ancient History of Hemp Cultivation
- Health Benefits of Cannabis, including Cannabis in the US Pharmacopoeia and Cannabis Used as a Legal Medicine
- Cannabis Legislation in the United States, including the 1914 Harrison Act, the Cannabis Tax Act, the Boggs Act, the Narcotics Control Act, the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act, the Shafer Commission, the Compassionate Investigational New Drug (IND) Program (also known as the IND Compassionate Use Program), the Controlled Substance Act, the 1986 Anti-Drug Abuse Act, the Cole Memo, Medical Cannabis Organ Transplant Act, FDA Approval of Marinol
- Public Cannabis Research Studies by Organizations Like the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians, and the New England Journal of Medicine, including Scientific Evidence for Treating Glaucoma and Cancer with Cannabis
- Cannabis Regulation in the United States, including Cannabis Policy in the 1900s and 2000s, Ronald Reagan’s War on Drugs, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Cannabis and the FDA, Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Cannabis
- Synthetic Cannabis Medicines like Dronabinol (Marinol) and Nabilone (Cesamet)
- Legal Medical Cannabis in California, Arizona, and Other States
- United States Political Policy on Pot, including legislation by former US Attorney General Jeff Sessions, former Presidents Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump, and former California Governor Jerry Brown
- Current Cannabis Policy In President Joseph Biden's Administration
- History of Cannabis Research on Phytocannabinoids, Cannabis and Pain, Cannabinol (CBN), Cannabidiol (CBD), Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Cannabigerol (CBG), Cannabichromene (CBC), Cannabicyclol (CBL), Acid Forms of Cannabis (THCA, CBDA, CBGA, CBCA, and CBLA), Cannabinoid Receptors, CB1 Receptors, Cannabis Receptors in the Brain, Endocannabinoids, Endogenous Cannabinoids, Anandamide (AEA), N-Arachidonoyl Ethanolamine, 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)
- United States Patient Discrimination and Hypocrisy about Medical Cannabis
- The Research of Famous Cannabis Researchers like Thomas Wood, B. Rael Cahn, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, Allyn Howlett
- Cannabis Activist Groups and Groups for Cannabis Reform, including the National Organization for the Reform of Cannabis Laws (NORML), Americans for Safe Access (ASA), and Cannabis Policy Project (MPP)
- Physician Concerns about Cannabis, including Cannabis Abuse, Cannabis vs. Morphine, Patients and Medical Cannabis, First Amendment Rights for Doctors Prescribing Cannabis, Prescribing Cannabis as a Federal Crime, Prosecution of Doctors for Prescribing Cannabis
Medical Cannabis Programs in the United States and Canada
This lesson describes qualifying conditions, patient/caregiver registration, and limits for every US state with a medical cannabis program and Canada. The lesson covers these topics:
- Qualifying Conditions for Medical Cannabis in the United States
- Registering as a Medical Cannabis Patient in every US state with a medical cannabis program
- Registering as a Medical Cannabis Caregiver in every US state with a medical cannabis program
- Possession and Cultivation Rules for Medical Cannabis Patients in every US state with a medical cannabis program
- Canada’s Medical Cannabis Program, including Qualifying Conditions, Becoming a Patient with Health Canada, Purchasing Medical Cannabis, and Becoming a Caregiver
The Endocannabinoid System
Information on how the body’s endocannabinoid system reacts with cannabinoids found in cannabis, and the benefits they can provide. The lesson covers these topics:
- History of Mammals and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
- Cannabis and Homeostasis in the Human Body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
- Using Cannabis for Optimum Health and to Maintain a Healthy Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
- The Lack of Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Education in Medical Schools
- How CB1 and CB2 Cannabinoid Receptors Work Throughout the Cells of the Body
- How the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Regulates Stress, Appetite, Pain, Memory, Mood, Energy, Metabolism, Immune Function, Female Reproduction, the Autonomic Nervous System, Temperature Balance, and Sleep
- Plant Cannabinoids (Phytocannabinoids) and Endocannabinoids
- Cannabis and the Central Nervous System (CNS), including the effects of Cannabis on Brain Trauma, Spinal Cord Injury, Strokes, Neurotransmitter Uptake, and the Brain
- Naturally Occurring Cannabinoids such as Anandamide, 2-AG in the Human Body, Cacao, Black Pepper, Echinacea, and Kava
- CB1 Receptors interaction with Topicals, Anxiety, Happiness, Convulsions, Pain, Mood Regulation, Inflammation, Movement, Traumatic Memory, Nerve Protection, Bone Growth, Tumor Regulation, Breast Feeding, Eye Pressure, the Digestive System, and Seizures
- CB2 Receptors Interactions in the Liver and Skin and with Inflammation, the Immune System, Injury, Appetite, Pain, Mood, and Memory
- GPR55 G-Protein Receptor Interactions with CNS Inflammation and Pain, Embryos, Inflammation, Blood Vessels, Blood Movement, Bone Resorption, Kidneys, and Cancer
- Other Cannabinoid Receptors such as GPR18 G-Protein Receptors, Glycerin receptors (GlyRs), TRPV1 Receptors, and PPARs
- Endocannabinoids as Retrograde Messengers and How They Work in the Immune System, the Circulatory System, the Skeletal System, the Digestive System, the Reproductive System, and Connective Tissue (Fascia)
- Endocannabinoids in Pregnant Women
- Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Depletion and Cannabis Deficiency Syndromes like Anorexia Nervosa, Fibromyalgia, Huntington’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Migraines, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, PTSD, and Schizophrenia
- Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) and Cannabis Abstinence
Conditions Treated by Cannabis
Breaking down all of the most common ailments addressed by medical cannabis, and why it can be a useful treatment. The lesson covers these topics:
- Peer-Reviewed Research on Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), including US Federal Government Restrictions on Cannabis Research and PubMed, the United States’ National Library of Medicine
- Cannabis Medical Information from licensed Cannabis physicians Dr. Joe Cohen, Dr. Arif Khan, and Dr. David Allen
- Palliative Cannabis Treatments and Symptoms Relieved by Cannabis, including Appetite Stimulation, Nausea and Vomiting Control, Intraocular Eye Pressure, Reducing Seizures, Reducing Pain and Inflammation, Reducing Chronic Pain, Movement Disorder Symptoms, Neurological Disorder Symptoms, Reducing Anxiety, Reducing Depression, Reducing Opioid Addiction
- Research on Cannabis Effects on Pain, Inflammation, CVD
- Cannabis vs. Prescription Pain Medicine, Opiates, Over-the-Counter Pain Medication, and Clobazam for Seizures
- CBD and THC Cannabis Treatment for Symptoms of Arthritis, Back Pain, Reflux Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSDS), Depression, Migraines, Sleep Apnea, Neuropathy, Hypertension, Insomnia, ADD, Asthma, IBS, Spinal Cord Injury, PMS, Head Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, Fibromyalgia, Incontinence, Severe Itching (Pruritis), Psychotic Episodes, Sciatica, Shingles, Sports Injuries, Spinal Stenosis, Surgical Pain, Neuropathic Pain, Somatosensory System Pain, Herpes Pain, Multiple Sclerosis Pain and Muscle Spasms, and Vascular Disease Pain
- CBD and THC Cannabis Treatments for Geriatric Patients
- Double-Blind, Placebo Studies and Research about Medical Conditions Treated with Cannabis, including Joint Disorders, Alzheimer’s Disease, Senile Dementia, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Huntington’s Disease, Neurodegenerative Disorders, Multiple Sclerosis and Cannabis, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, Movement Disorders, Epilepsy, Cancer, PTSD, Brain Injury (TBI), Stroke, Glutamate Excitotoxicity (GE), Neuromuscular Disease, Tourette’s Syndrome, Ataxia, Cerebral Palsy, Dystonia, Shy-Drager Syndrome, Paraplegia, Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD), Tics, Tremors, Fear Extinction, Autoimmune Disease, Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), and Atherosclerosis
- The Role of CB2 Receptors in Heart Attacks, Strokes, Hardening of the Arteries, Heart Failure, and Cardiomyopathy
- Research on Cannabis as an Anti-Cancer Agent for Breast Carcinoma, Prostate Carcinoma, Colorectal Carcinoma, Gastric Adenocarcinoma, Skin Carcinoma, Leukemia, Glioblastomas, CNS Tumors, Lung Carcinoma, Uterine carcinoma, Thyroid Epithelioma, Pancreatic Carcinoma, Adenocarcinoma, Cervical Carcinoma, Oral Cancer, Biliary Tract Cancer, and Lymphoma
- Obesity and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), including CBD and Blood Glucose Levels
- Cannabis Treatment for Complex Conditions
- Cannabis as a Cytostatic and Apoptotic Cancer Treatment
- Cannabis Interactions with Chemotherapy Drugs
- Improving Health and Emotions with Cannabis
Administering Cannabis
Learn the best ways to consume cannabis and determine your dose, including side effects, drug interactions, and special patient populations. The lesson covers these topics:
- Cannabis Pharmacokinetics and Bioavailability, Including Discussion of LDL Delivery, Nanoemulsions, Metabolites, and How Cannabis Gets You High
- First-Pass Metabolism Effects on THC, including the Difference Between THC and Hydroxy-THC and How THC Permeates the Blood-Brain Barrier
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Cannabis Administration Methods, including Ingestion, Inhalation, Sublingual, Buccal, Intraoral, Transdermals, Topicals, and Suppositories
- How Cannabis is Processed Depending on Administration Method
- Strength, Onset, and Duration of Cannabis Effects when Taken in Different Ways
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Cannabis Edibles
- How Cannabis Edibles are Processed by the Body
- The Effects of Different Inhalation Methods, Including Smoking Buds, Vaporizing Flowers and Concentrates, Dabbing Cannabis, and Cannabis Inhalers
- Lung Cancer Risks of Smoking Cannabis
- How to Use Sublingual Cannabis, Cannabis Inhalers, Cannabis Patches, and Other Administration Methods
- Combining the Effects of Edibles and Sublingual Cannabis
- Transdermal Absorption, The Effect of Alcohol and Terpenes plus Transdermal Differences Between Cannabinoids
- Topical Cannabis Preparations including Phoenix Tears, Creams, Salves, Massage Oil, and Rectal and Vaginal Suppositories
- Raw Cannabis Juice as Medicine
- Finding the Right Cannabis Dose, including Genetic Testing, DNA Tests, Titration for New and Experienced Users
- Cannabis Sensitization Protocol and Cannabis Abstinence to Reduce Tolerance
- Avoiding the Negative Side Effects of Cannabis including Psychoactive Effects, Intoxication, Anxiety, Scattered Thinking, Mania, Hallucinations, Cardiovascular Side Effects (Increased Heart Rate and Decreased Blood Pressure), Fatigue, Drowsiness Sedative Effects, Insomnia, Changes in Dreams, Allergic Reactions, Cannabis Dependence, Dizziness, Cough, Decreased Appetite, Appetite Stimulation, Dry Mouth, Red Eyes, Increased Urination, Lack of Effects, and Vaginal Dryness
- Using Cannabis with Alternative Modalities such as: Cannabis and Yoga, Cannabis and Hypnosis, and Cannabis and Physical Therapy
- Cannabis Interactions with Other Drugs, including Medicinal Supplements, Cannabis and Opioids, Cannabis and Chemotherapy, Cannabis and NSAIDs, Cannabis and Acetaminophen, Cannabis and Steroids, Cannabis and Anti-Anxiety Medicine, Cannabis and Benzodiazepines, Cannabis and Probiotics, Cannabis and Alcohol, Cannabis and Antidepressants, Cannabis and Blood Pressure Medication, Cannabis and Warfarin, and Cannabis and Herbal Supplements
- Considerations for Geriatric, Pediatric, and Pregnant Medical Cannabis Patients
- Gender Differences in Cannabis Effects
Cannabis Dispensary & Budtender Careers
Government Requirements for Cannabis Industry Workers
Necessary information on cannabis work permits and other required prerequisites for anyone looking to start a cannabis career in the United States or Canada. The lesson covers these topics:
- Age Requirements for Working in Cannabis Businesses for each US state with a legal cannabis program
- Cannabis Work Permit Fees for each US state with a legal cannabis program
- Training Requirements for Cannabis Industry Employees for each US state with a legal cannabis program
- Legal Requirements for Cannabis Workers for each US state with a legal cannabis program
- Employee Agent Card information for each US state with a legal cannabis program
- Canadian Cannabis Worker Regulations, Cannabis Act, and Criminal Code Bill C-45
- Age, Residency, and Ownership Requirements for Cannabis Industry Workers in Canada
- Analytical Cannabis Testing Lab and Cannabis Research Licenses in Canada
- Duties on Cannabis in Canada
- Age Requirements for Cannabis Industry Workers in each Canadian province
- Cannabis work permit fees in each Canadian province
- Training Requirements for Cannabis Workers in each Canadian province
- Legal requirements for cannabis workers in each Canadian province
Cannabis Career Basics
Everything you need to start your cannabis career, including how to identify and locate industry jobs, create the perfect cannabis resume and cover letter, and succeed at the interview so you can start working in this amazing and profitable industry. The lesson covers these topics:
- Where to Look for a Cannabis Industry Job, including Cannabis Job Boards, Recruiting Companies, Placement Businesses, Staffing Agencies
- Online Cannabis Job Resources in the United States and Canada, including Indeed, Monster.com, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, SimplyHired, Craigslist, Cannabis Training University, Ganjapreneur, BloomTHC, HempEvents.org
- Cannabis Staffing Agencies
- Locating Cannabis Jobs through Social Media, including LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
- Getting a Cannabis Job through Unsolicited Emails, Newspapers and Magazine Ads
- Networking for Cannabis Careers at Local Cannabis Events, Cannabis Dispensaries, Cannabis Industry Parties, Cannabis Legislation Events, Dispensary Parties, National Cannabis Events, Women Grow, National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA), Cannabis Policy Project (MPP), MJBizCon, International Cannabis World Events, and Canna-Tech Cannabis Events
- Building Cannabis Experience by Volunteering at Cannabis Organizations and Cannabis Blogging
- Writing a Cannabis Resume, including Tips, Organization, and Showing Black Market Cannabis Experience
- Using Skills from Other Industries on your Cannabis Resume, including Retails Skills for a Cannabis Budtender Job and Gardening Skills for a Cannabis Grower Job
- How to Write a Cover Letter in the Cannabis Industry, including Tips, Organization, and Including Black Market Cannabis Experience
- Sample Cannabis Entry-Level Cultivation Job Posting, Resume, and Cover Letter
- Sample Cannabis Management Job Listing, Resume, and Cover Letter
- Cannabis World Interview Tips, including Describing Black Market Cannabis Experience
Cannabis Dispensary and Budtender Careers
Budtending and dispensary work may be among the most popular avenues for starting a cannabis career, and this lesson shows exactly how to get started. The lesson covers these topics:
- Overview of Cannabis Dispensary Businesses
- Jobs in Cannabis Dispensaries, including Budtenders, Cannabis Educators, Cannabis Assistants, Cannabis Guides, and Managers
- Differences Between Strains and Weight Conversions for Bulk Cannabis Flower
- Cannabis Edible Dosing and Cannabis Ingredients for Home Cooking
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Budtender
- Regulations, Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Experience Requirements, Advancement Opportunities, Wages, and Required Skills for Cannabis Store Manager
- Cannabis Dispensary Job Skills, including Checking in Patients, Handling Money, Weighing and Packaging Buds, Purchase Limits, Inventory Management, Rolling a Cannabis Cigarette, Rolling a Cannabis Cigar, Operating a Point of Sale (POS) System, and Customer Service
- Recommending Medical Cannabis Products for Qualifying Conditions, including Insomnia, Pain, Attention Deficit, and Non-Medical Needs
Cannabis Dispensary Business
Government Requirements for Cannabis Businesses
Examine the process of obtaining a special license to run a cannabis business. This lesson acts as a guided tour of the requirements for cannabis business applications in each legal state, province, and territory across the United States and Canada. The lesson covers these topics:
- Inventory Tracking System Requirements in US States and Canadian Provinces
- Vertical Integration Requirements by State For United States Cannabis Businesses
- Licenses Available for Medical Cannabis Businesses in each US state with a medical cannabis program
- Fee Requirements for Cannabis Businesses in every US state with a legal cannabis program
- Licenses Available for Recreational Cannabis Businesses in every US state with a legal cannabis program
- Fee and Licensing Requirements for Canadian Cannabis Businesses
- Cannabis Delivery by Mail in Canada
- Medical and Recreational Cannabis Businesses Licensing in Canadian Provinces and Territories
- Regulations from the Canadian Department of Finance, including Excise Duties on Cannabis, the 2001 Canadian Excise Act, and the 2018 Canadian Budget Implementation Act
- Canadian Retail and Recreational Cannabis Dispensary Licenses in the United States and Canada
- Cannabis Medical and Recreational Cultivation Licenses in the United States and Canada
- Cannabis Processing Licenses in US States and Canadian Provinces and Territories
- Applications and Fees for Cannabis Business Licenses and L300 Cannabis Licenses
- Contacting the Canadian Government
- Canada’s Cannabis Tracking System (CTS)
- Canadian Cannabis Product Packaging and Labeling Requirements
Cannabis Business Basics
Before joining the multi-billion dollar cannabis industry, you’ll need to be prepared. This lesson covers the basics of planning your cannabis business, from writing and pitching your marijuana business plan to overcoming common challenges you might face along the way.
The lesson covers these topics:
- Challenges in Starting a Cannabis Business and Potential Cannabis Industry Pitfalls, including Cannabis Banking Challenges, Changing Cannabis Laws and Regulations, Income Tax Issues, Municipal Moratoriums, Under-Educated Consumers, Security, 280E Tax Code and Cannabis, Compliance with Cannabis Regulations, Cannabis Inventory Tracking, and Entering the Green Rush
- Competition in the Cannabis Industry, including Black Market Competition
- How to Write a Cannabis Business Plan, including Audience, Cover Page, Table of Contents, Executive Summary, Trademarks and Patents, Market Analysis, Company Descriptions, Ownership, and Appendices
- Sample Cannabis Business Plan
- The Global, National, and Local Cannabis Market
- Pricing in the Cannabis Industry, including Variable Market Considerations and Competition
- Stages of Development of a Cannabis Business
- Specialization in the Cannabis Industry
- Cannabis Patents, Trade Secrets, Copyrights, Intellectual Property, and Right of Publicity
- Marketing and Sales in the Cannabis Industry, including Creating a Visual Marketing Plan, Target Markets, Price Structure, and Market Penetration Strategy, Financial Projections, Cannabis Advertising, Cannabis Networking, Cannabis Industry Social Media Concerns, Cannabis Business Marketing Strategies, Budtender Product Education, Industry Brochures, Market Influencers, Cannabis Affiliate Marketing, Micro-Influencers, and Online Cannabis Reviews
- Sales Approach Strategies in the Cannabis Space, including Solutions Selling, the Buddy Approach, and The Guru Approach
- Research and Development (R&D) in the Cannabis Industry, including Cannabis Product Life Span
- Creating a Cannabis Facility Operating Plan
- Finances in the Cannabis Industry, including Funding Requests
- Cannabis Pitch Deck Basics, including Importance of a Cannabis Pitch Deck, Pitch Decks to Request Funding, Pitch Decks at Networking Events, and Pitch Deck Competitions
- How to Write a Cannabis Industry Pitch Deck, including Optimal Number of Slides, Slide Content, Appearance of Slides, Verbal Presentations, Delivering the Pitch Deck, Storytelling Skills, and Practicing
- Sample Cannabis Industry Pitch Deck
- Marketing and Advertising Challenges in the Cannabis Industry, including Changing Regulations, Truth and Accuracy Statements, Prohibited Areas, Prohibited Populations, Prohibited Methods
- Cannabis Holidays, including April 20 (420), July 10 (710), and Seasonal Cannabis Considerations
- Advertising in the Cannabis Space, including Industry Restrictions, Traditional Advertising, Advertising on Packaging, Live Events, Advertising in Dispensaries, In-Store Video Ads, Product Marketing Posters, Flyers, Signs, Branded Dispensary Bags and Jars, Promotional Models, Reward Programs, Promotional Items, Print Advertising, Radio Advertising, TV Advertising, Direct Mail, Billboards, Promotional Drink Coasters, News Media Coverage, Vinyl-Wrapped Vehicles, Online Advertising, Business Websites, Email Marketing, Banner Ads, Keyword Advertising, Social Media, and Hashtags
- Cannabis Transporting and Delivery Regulations Between Businesses, from Growers to Stores, to Dispensaries, Between Wholesale Businesses
- Cannabis Inventory Management, including Product Recalls and Defective Products, Expiration Dates, Inventory Tracking Systems, Seed-To-Sale, Seed-to-Harvest Tracking, Tracking for Processors, Wholesale-to-Consumer Tracking, Point of Sale (POS) Systems
- Tracking Cannabis Product Turnover Rates, Product Performance, Gross Margins, Lost Sales, Sell-Through Rates, and Stolen Products
- Cannabis Business Insurance, including Property Insurance, Product Liability Insurance, Living Cannabis Plant Coverage
- Federal Legal Considerations for Cannabis Businesses in the United States
- Local Regulations for Different Cannabis Business Types, including Prohibited Locations
- Packaging and Labeling Regulations in the Cannabis Industry
- Cannabis Business Shutdown Procedures, Rule Violations, and Government Raids
Cannabis Dispensary Businesses
When you open a dispensary, you will be faced with some unique business challenges, including industry compliance, store planning, and addressing local attitudes on cannabis. This lesson explains how to open a dispensary and gives you tips on how to move past common issues without a glitch. The lesson covers these topics:
- Legal Considerations in Opening a Cannabis Dispensary, including Operation Type, Signage, Packaging, Labeling
- Cannabis Dispensary Business Basics, including Vertical Integration, Medical vs. Recreational, and Finances
- Cannabis Store Business Plans, including Dispensary Type, Market Niche, Store Layout, and Marketing Plan
- Choosing a Location for your Cannabis Dispensary, including Population, Customer Interests, Competition, Zoning, and Property Leases
- Cannabis Store Setup, including Sales Floor Layout, Order of Services, Equipment, Supplies, and Sanitation
- Quality in Cannabis Dispensaries, including Products, Pricing, Operating Costs, and Tracking Inventory, Patients, and Customers
- Customer Service in Cannabis Stores, including Basic Skills, Product Recalls, and Return Policies
- Cannabis Dispensary Security, including Loss Prevention, Dealing with Customer Problems, Physical Store Security, Door Security, Keeping Cash Safe, Consumption Policies, and Neighborhood Relationships
- Special Considerations for Medical Cannabis Dispensaries, including Legal Requirements, Medical Claims, Patient Education, Patient Agreements, Increasing Plant Limits, and Consumption Options
Intro Cannabis Laws and Regulations
Cannabis Laws in the United States
A dive into cannabis laws across the US, including detailed information on current adult use, medical, and recreational programs in each state. The lesson covers these topics:
- Cannabis Laws in the United States, including United States Cannabis Regulation,
Public Support for Cannabis in the US, Interaction between United States Federal and State Cannabis Laws, Cannabis Court Cases, Federal Cannabis Laws in the United States, Unwarranted Searches as They Relate to Cannabis, Firearms and Cannabis, and Cannabis and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) - Medical Cannabis Programs in each US state
- Cannabis Possession, Distribution, Manufacturing, Growing, and Trafficking in Medical and Recreational Cannabis States
- Recreational Cannabis Programs in each US state
Public Support for Cannabis in the US, Interaction between United States Federal and State Cannabis Laws, Cannabis Court Cases, Federal Cannabis Laws in the United States, Unwarranted Searches as They Relate to Cannabis, Firearms and Cannabis, and Cannabis and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)Cannabis Laws In Canada
With adult-use cannabis now legal nationwide, there has never been a better time to get involved in cannabis in Canada—but only if you understand the status of the Canadian cannabis laws. The lesson covers these topics:
- Cannabis Legalization for Personal Use in Canada, including the Cannabis Act,
An Act Respecting Cannabis and to Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code, and Other Acts, and Adult Recreational Use - Canada’s Federal Medical Cannabis Program, including Health Canada, Qualifying Conditions, and Becoming a Medical Cannabis Patient
- Canada’s Federal Cannabis Laws regarding Possession, Public Consumption, Distribution, Growing Cannabis, and Unlawful Activity
- Cannabis Possession, Public Consumption, Distribution, and Cultivation Laws in each Canadian province and territory
An Act Respecting Cannabis and to Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code, and Other Acts, and Adult Recreational UseHandouts and Resources
Handouts and resources can be downloaded and/or accessed after enrollment ends.
- Definitions: Cannabis Basics Terminology
- Definitions: Cannabis Legal Terminology
- Definitions: Cannabis Business Terms
- Chart: Effects Of Common Cannabinoids
- Chart: Effects of Common Cannabis Terpenes
- Information Sheet: First Aid for Cannabis Side Effects
- Chart: Cannabis Interactions With Other Drugs
- Definitions: Cannabis Medical Terminology
- Information Sheet: Top Ten Symptoms Relieved By Cannabis
- MS Word Template: Cover Letter Builder
- MS Word Template: Resume Builder
- How to Become a Cannabis Budtender
- How to Become a Cannabis Dispensary Manager
- How to Become a Cannabis Expert
- How to Become a Marijuana Entrepreneur
- Sample: Cover Letter For Entry Level Grower
- Sample: Resume For Entry Level Grower
- Sample: Cover Letter For Dispensary Manager
- Sample: Resume For Dispensary Manager
- Sample: Blunt Royale Business Plan
- Sample: Blunt Royale Pitch Deck
- Supplemental Reading List: Cannabis Basics
- Procedure: Dab Equipment And How To Dab
- Chart: Cannabis Consumption Methods
- Chart: Entourage Effects
- Chart: Effects Of Common Cannabinoids On Receptors
- Checklist: Cannabis Industry Pitch Deck
- Checklist: Cannabis Industry Business Plan
- Procedure: 6-Day Cannabis Sensitization Protocol
- Procedure: Finding the Right Dose
- Supplemental Reading List: Cannabis As Medicine
- How To Become A Medical Cannabis Caregiver
- Chart: Characteristics Of Cannabis Types
- Chart: Storage For Cannabis Products
- Calculator: Cannabis Dry Weight Conversions
E-books
E-books can be accessed for the duration of your enrollment.
- Beyond Buds, Next Generation: Marijuana Concentrates and Cannabis Infusions
- Beyond Buds: Marijuana Extracts, Hash, Vaping, Dabbing, Edibles, and Medicines
- Big Book of Buds Greatest Hits
- Marijuana Garden Saver
- Marijuana Grower's Handbook
- Marijuana Harvest: Maximizing Quality & Yield in Your Cannabis Garden
- Branding Buds: The Commercialization of Cannabis
SNEAK PEEK
The Master of Cannabis Certificate Program takes you inside the cannabis industry. You will learn directly from Master's of marijuana in their field.
With your certification in How to Open a Cannabis Dispensary become qualified for these jobs:
Cannabis Dispensary Manager
Medical Marijuana Dispensary Manager
CBD/Hemp Manager
Cannabis Dispensary Owner
CBD/Hemp Shop Owner
Cannabis Dispensary Hiring Manager
James Y
Dearborn, MI
“
I had been wanting to learn how to open a medical marijuana dispensary for many years so I enrolled at CTU. I was amazed at the amount of legal information that was supplied for such a low cost. Thanks a lot.
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DISPENSARY
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Jeff was involved in an accident where he endured a traumatic brain injury. He had a week-long stay in ICU where brain surgeons 
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