M.S. in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics Overview
The two-year Master of Science (M.S.) in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program is the nation’s first graduate program dedicated to the study of medical cannabis. The program blends online instruction with face-to-face experiences to 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. It is ideal for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree and currently work or are interested in working in the medical cannabis industry. A thesis is not required for this program.
M.S. in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics at USG
The M.S. in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics is a program established by the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy that is based at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG). The program provides 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 will take five required foundational courses in medical cannabis science, therapeutics, and policy. Students will also be able to choose three 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.
Coursework is designed to accommodate students with and without a background in science or medicine, and faculty are dedicated to making courses interesting and accessible to all students, regardless of academic background. Online coursework offers students flexibility when completing assignments; however, students are required to travel to USG once each semester for in-person symposia that offer opportunities to network with peers, as well as meet and interact with experts in the science, therapeutics, and policy of medical cannabis.
Applying to the M.S. in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics at USG
Applications for Fall 2024 are open. The application deadline for Fall 2024 is July 15, 2024. All supplemental materials must be received and processed by the University no later than July 15, 2024, to be considered for acceptance. Please make sure any items being mailed are postmarked far enough in advance to meet this deadline. Complete applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are received. Applying early is encouraged.
The M.S. in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics is designed for any student who is interested in advancing his or her knowledge about medical cannabis or pursuing a career in the medical cannabis industry, including health care professionals, scientists and regulators, growers and dispensary owners, and policy and industry professionals. Prospective students must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and have the ability to travel to USG once per semester (Fall and Spring) for required symposia.* All applicants are required to submit an online application, official transcripts, essay, CV/resume, and three (3) letters of recommendation to be considered for enrollment in the M.S. in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics. Additional documents are also required for international applicants.
The M.S. in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics does not require prospective students to submit GRE scores with their application.
* This program is not eligible for F-1 or J-1 student visa sponsorship by the University of Maryland, Baltimore due to the amount of online courses. Please Note: For-credit study is prohibited in visitor visa status (i.e., B-1, B-2, ESTA/Visa Waiver Program).
For additional information, please visit the How to Apply webpage.