Higher Education: MA University Offering Marijuana Program

WORCESTER, MA — Clark University is rolling out the country's first-ever certificate in marijuana regulation. With marijuana legalized in some form in 33 states, the program aims to shine a light on industry regulation and policy. The three-course, online program will start in the fall.

The program is part of the university's Master of Public Administration program and focuses on policy rather than business. The three courses consist of regulatory models, health and public safety concerns, and stakeholder education and enforcement. While marijuana regulation has become a national issue, local municipalities like Worcester are grappling with issues of consumption, zoning and advertising in regards to marijuana in the city.

"Although Massachusetts is largely defined by the city of Boston, the vast majority of the Bay State is a collection of small municipalities and rural towns, many of whom were ill-prepared to handle the emergence of an industry that is growing very rapidly,” Clark University's John LaBrie said in a university announcement. LaBrie is Clark University’s School of Professional Studies dean and associate provost for professional graduate education. "The issues that Massachusetts is experiencing right now are going to be the same nationwide."

Worcester will soon be the headquarters of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission. The commission is expected to arrive in the city in late 2019 and the university hopes to partner with it for the new program.

Each class in the program costs around $2,800 and credits go toward a master of public administration. LaBrie said the courses and program was designed to grow and change alongside marijuana regulation and the industry.