The Graduate Studies in Medical Cannabis programs provide students with the knowledge they need to support patients and the medical cannabis industry, add to existing research, and develop well-informed medical cannabis policy.

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The Graduate Studies in Medical Cannabis consists of a Master of Science (MS) and Graduate Certificate. They prepare graduates to respond to the increasing demand for medical cannabis with an understanding of the basic science and clinical uses of the cannabis plant. 

The pioneering MS in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics is the first graduate program in the United States dedicated to the study of medical cannabis. The two-year program based at the Universities at Shady Grove in Rockville, Md., blends online instruction with face-to-face experiences with our award-winning faculty. Students will have the opportunity to meet and interact with experts in the science, therapeutics, and policy of medical cannabis at live symposia, while online coursework will allow them flexibility when completing assignments.

The Graduate Certificate in Medical Cannabis Science, Therapeutics, and Policy is a two-semester, 12-credit program that provides a foundation in cannabis pharmacology and clinical science, historical context, and current policy landscape. The entirely online certificate provides a more limited course of study than the MS degree program.

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About the MS in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics

This two-minute video provides a brief overview of the MS in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics at the School of Pharmacy, including details about who the program is designed for, the admissions process, and what students can expect to learn.

I’m a social entrepreneur in the cannabis industry, primarily focused on medical cannabis and cannabis policy. The MS in MCST delivered a deep dive, which has helped me better execute my companies’ missions and added credibility for conversations I have with cannabis scientists, researchers, clinicians, and entrepreneurs across the globe.

Jacquie Cohen Roth, MS '21, Founder/CEO of CannabizMD, LLC, and Founder/CEO of Tea Pad, LLC


Both programs are designed for students who are interested in a career in the medical cannabis industry, whether in a clinical, scientific, or policy role.

The programs provide education in the following areas:

  • Basic science (pharmacology, chemistry, and medical cannabis delivery systems)
  • Clinical uses (pathophysiology, assessment, and management of conditions that may be treated by medical cannabis)
  • Adverse effects and public health considerations
  • Federal and state laws and policies

Students in the MS program will take five required foundational courses in medical cannabis science, therapeutics, and policy. Students will also be able to choose four elective courses based on their interests. After completing elective courses, all students will take a course in research methods as well as a capstone course comprised of expert seminars, case studies, and discussions.

The Graduate Certificate consists of the first four courses of the MS program, for a total of 12 credits. Certificate students can apply for the MS program at a later date, if desired, and apply their completed courses towards the MS degree.

Coursework is designed to accommodate students with or without a background in science or medicine, and faculty are dedicated to making courses interesting and accessible to all students, regardless of academic background.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge of basic and clinical sciences to identify appropriate candidates for medical cannabis therapy and determine appropriate dosing and administration.
  • Apply knowledge of basic science and drug development to assure safe and effective design, development, and manufacturing of medical cannabis products.
  • Identify areas for future research related to science, health effects, and policy of medical cannabis, and describe the challenges associated with such research.
  • Identify, analyze, and advocate for emerging issues related to medical cannabis and health.
  • Participate in health-policy decision making processes related to medical cannabis

Are you a prospective student who is interested in learning more about Graduate Studies in Medical Cannabis?

Prospective students who have questions about the Graduate Studies in Medical Cannabis at the School of Pharmacy should contact mcst@rx.umaryland.edu for more information.

Take the Next Step: Apply Today

The growth of the medical cannabis industry in the U.S. is projected to increase significantly over the next 10 years. Gain the knowledge and skills you will need to respond to this demand. Apply for enrollment in the MS in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program.

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Because the cannabis landscape is so open to opportunity, a person is only limited by their own skillset after obtaining this degree. We need more credentialed cannabis competent leaders in the field to add credibility, lend expertise, and help mature the field through education and advocacy. I plan to incorporate cannabinoids into my practice as a clinical medical psychologist.

Catrena Almonte, MS '21, current doctoral student (clinical psychology) at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, DC Campus