Micro-Emerging Markets

Cannabis Certificate Program

The Certificate in Micro-Emerging Markets: Cannabis 9-credit program that supports those interested in entering the niche market of recreational and medicinal cannabis in Massachusetts. The program utilizes local and regional leaders in the cannabis industry to provide expertise and insight into this market.

Students seeking a bachelor’s degree may elect to supplement their major with this certificate. Those interested in pursuing this certificate as a stand-alone option may do so through the Evenings at AIC Program.

Upon completion of this certificate, students will have:

  • The basic requisite knowledge to be employable in the cannabis industry.
  • The opportunity to interact with industry leaders in Western Massachusetts and surrounding areas to gain insights into the cannabis market.
  • The knowledge about first-hand experiences challenging entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry, specifically in the areas of operations, marketing, and laws/ethics.

Certificate Program Requirements

  • MEM2000: Cannabis Entrepreneurship
  • MEM2010: Cannabis Business Operations
  • MEM2020: Law and Ethics of Cannabis

Course Descriptions

As an emerging multibillion-dollar industry, cannabis presents a myriad of marketing opportunities. In this course, students will examine customer groups, products, and services in the recreational market. The effect of price, quality, and competitors (i.e. illegal market) will be considered in how to compete effectively in the marketing. Students will be presented basic information on the key components of the Cannabis industry—legal, business models, capital/finance, and marketing—which will be explored through the marketing and entrepreneurship lens.

In this course, students will analyze the evolving cannabis marketplace and investigate the complexities and challenges of this sector. The course will conduct an in-depth examination of key components of different business types, how the sector is evolving, key roles of production, testing, retail, and security. Considerable time will be spent examining the many entry points into the cannabis industry and focus on starting and operating a cannabis business. In addition, financial constraints and investments will be introduced as well as strategic marketing in the industry.

Legislation of cannabis will be examined. Students will learn to locate, understand, and analyze legislation. Discussion will be around the legal and ethical implications of cannabis use, legalization, criminal activity and marketing. Perspectives of law enforcement, business owners, and recreational users will be explored.

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