Compare Cannabis Schools and Online Cannabis Courses 2025

Are you ready to start a career in the cannabis industry or launch your own cannabis business?

Choosing the right cannabis school can make the difference between just having a certificate and truly being job-ready in the world’s fastest-growing industry.

Earning a cannabis training certification can help individuals advance their careers by opening up new job opportunities and increasing professional recognition in the cannabis sector.

While there are several cannabis colleges and training programs to choose from, Cannabis Training University (CTU) offers a comprehensive course structure with more courses, resources, industry recognition, and graduate success—all for a fraction of the cost of other programs.

CTU's focus is on developing essential skills and industry knowledge to prepare students for success in the cannabis industry.

Introduction to the Cannabis Industry

The cannabis industry is experiencing rapid expansion, creating a wealth of opportunities for those interested in building a cannabis career.

Whether your passion lies in cultivation, retail, extraction, or another aspect of the industry, a strong foundation in cannabis education is essential.

Understanding the basics of cannabis plants, the role of various terpenes, and the rich history of cannabis can set you apart as a knowledgeable professional.

Leading institutions like Cannabis Training University and Oaksterdam University offer comprehensive cannabis training programs designed to equip students with the essential skills needed for success.

From cannabis certificate programs to hands-on cannabis career training, these universities prepare students for roles in cannabis dispensary management, cannabis extraction, and business management, ensuring you have the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic industry.

Join a Fast-Growing Industry

The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in today’s job market, with new cannabis businesses launching every day and a rising demand for skilled professionals.

By investing in cannabis education, you gain access to the knowledge and training required to excel in a variety of cannabis jobs, from cultivation and extraction to retail and management.

Completing a cannabis certificate program not only demonstrates your commitment to the industry but also gives you a competitive edge when applying for positions.

As the industry continues to expand, cannabis businesses are seeking individuals who have completed rigorous cannabis training and possess the skills needed to contribute from day one.

With the right program, you can gain access to rewarding cannabis careers and become part of a movement that is shaping the future of medicine, business, and culture.

Why Cannabis Training University Dominates Cannabis Education

Since 2009, Cannabis Training University has been:

• The first online cannabis school in the world
• The only internationally accredited cannabis college (IACET/ANSI)
• The most recognized cannabis school by employers in the industry
• The most graduates hired in cannabis jobs worldwide
• Comprehensive training resources, including engaging video content to enhance learning

CTU’s Master of Cannabis Certification Program includes 8 in-depth courses, 10 certifications.

The curriculum also features lab-based training to develop practical skills essential for cannabis cultivation, extraction, and quality control.

In addition to the 8 in-depth courses, the program covers both medical cannabis and marijuana topics, ensuring students gain a complete understanding of the industry.

Compare Cannabis School Programs: The CTU Advantage: More for Less

Other schools may charge $1,000–$3,000 or more for a few courses. CTU gives you:

• The most comprehensive cannabis curriculum – Cultivation, cooking, extraction, dispensary jobs, cannabis medicine, business, laws for all 50 states, Canada & 47 countries, terpenes, CBD, hemp, compliance & safety.
• CTU also covers every aspect of the cannabis industry, from cultivation and healthcare to compliance and entrepreneurship.
• International IACET/ANSI accreditation – Employers know your credential meets the highest global standards.
• The most training resources – 300+ HD videos, 8 Ed Rosenthal eBooks, 72 downloadable guides, resume & cover letter templates.
• CTU provides technical assistance and ongoing support to students.
• Industry-leading faculty – Learn from cannabis attorneys, master growers, extraction experts, dispensary managers, medical professionals, and award-winning chefs.
• World-class reputation – CTU is known by more employers, dispensaries, and cannabis companies than any other cannabis school.

While CTU does not offer financial aid, we do offer a monthly subscription at a low cost.

CTU offers assistance to students throughout their educational journey.

Specialized Training in Cannabis Extraction and Business

Success in the cannabis industry often requires specialized expertise, particularly in areas like cannabis extraction and business management.

Cannabis extraction is a complex process that involves isolating cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis plants, requiring both scientific knowledge and technical skill.

On the business side, managing a cannabis business—whether it’s a dispensary, cultivation facility, or manufacturing operation—demands a deep understanding of business management principles tailored to the unique challenges of the industry.

Oaksterdam University, located in downtown Oakland, is known for its in person courses in cannabis horticulture, extraction, and business, providing students with the training and knowledge needed to excel, albeit at a much higher cost than Cannabis Training University.

Business Management in the Cannabis Industry

Effective business management is at the heart of every successful cannabis company. The cannabis industry presents unique challenges, from navigating complex regulations to managing finances and leading diverse teams of employees.

To thrive, cannabis business managers must develop essential skills in areas such as financial management, marketing, compliance, and human resources, while staying informed about the latest industry trends.

Training programs from leaders like CTU offer students the tools, support, and knowledge needed to manage and grow cannabis businesses in a competitive market.

With the right skills and ongoing education, you can confidently lead your team, ensure operational excellence, and position your business for long-term success in the ever-evolving cannabis industry.

Why Cannabis Industry Employers Prefer CTU Graduates

CTU certifications are:

• Recognized worldwide thanks to international accreditation.
• Trusted – CTU has been educating cannabis professionals for 15+ years.
• Practical – Curriculum is built with direct employer input.

Our alumni work as:

• Master growers
• Dispensary managers
• Cannabis chefs & product makers
• Cannabis compliance officers
• CBD & hemp entrepreneurs
• Budtenders & patient consultants who assist and educate patients, helping them understand cannabis products and providing guidance for patient wellness

CTU vs. 2- and 4-Year Cannabis Programs

Many universities now offer cannabis-related degrees costing $3,000–$60,000+ and taking years to complete.

• CTU’s content is updated monthly to reflect the latest laws, trends, technology, and the most current information on THC and its role in the cannabis industry—college programs can’t keep up with the speed of the industry.
• You can complete CTU’s Master of Cannabis program in weeks, not years, and start working immediately.
• Cost? Spend hundreds vs thousands—not even close!

Cannabis Training University Student Reviews

“The best cannabis education available.”
“I compared Oaksterdam, Clover Leaf, and CTU. CTU had more classes, more certifications, and better prices by far. I got hired at a dispensary within 2 months.”

“Employers actually recognized my CTU certification.”
“When I applied for cultivation jobs, every employer knew CTU. My interviewers mentioned it’s the ‘gold standard’ for cannabis training.”

“Better than university programs for a fraction of the cost.”
“I took cannabis classes at a local university—cost me $2,000 and I learned less than in my first two weeks at CTU.”

FAQs – Cannabis Training University & Cannabis School Comparison

Interesting Facts About Online Cannabis Courses & Schools

-Students enrolled in cannabis training programs typically do not have homework and can retake quizzes and tests to improve understanding of the material.

-Completing a cannabis certificate program gives you exclusive access to employer networks.

-Graduates from cannabis training programs often secure positions in the industry shortly after completion of their courses.

-Online cannabis education from CTU can be accessed from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.

-Many businesses consider CTU to be the only legitimate provider of a complete cannabis education.

-CTU certificates are widely accepted by thousands of cannabis businesses.

The Bottom Line : Compare Cannabis School Programs Before Enrolling

If you want the best cannabis school in the world, backed by international accreditation, industry respect, and the lowest price for the most content, Cannabis Training University is the clear choice.

✅ First online cannabis school in the world
✅ Only internationally accredited cannabis college
✅ Most graduates hired in cannabis jobs
✅ Most comprehensive cannabis curriculum

Enroll today at CTU and join 60,000+ CTU graduates who have turned their cannabis education into successful careers and businesses.