The cannabis industry is seen as a very democratic one and attracts all sorts of colourful characters. But make no mistakes about it, it is a serious business, and those with the right qualifications are the ones that eventually end up thriving and becoming big players in the industry.
While it’s possible to open a dispensary with no specific background, you are also stunting your growth or increasing your risk by not having some sort of qualifications. This is something that you can get either while you’re running your dispensary, or before. Here are some of the best degree options for cannabis dispensary owners.
Certificate in Cannabis Control
If you want something that will at least allow you to understand different regulations in the industry and be compliant at all times, then we suggest you get a certificate in cannabis control. The great thing about this degree is that you can get it pretty fast, and it will make sure that you at least don’t get in trouble with the law. This is especially important if you decide to start shipping products across state lines or expanding outside of your current state.
You can get this degree in about 6 months completely online through Excelsior College’s Graduate Certificate in Cannabis Control, which makes it a great option for those who didn’t want to spend a couple of years getting a degree, those coming from other fields, or those who already own a dispensary and want to get their education on the side.
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship will be a logical degree option if you want to run your dispensary like an actual business. Having an entrepreneurship degree will allow you to manage your overheads better, learn the ins and outs of business financing, and help you with expansion. You will also have a better understanding of sourcing, supply chain management, commercial real estate, and accounting. This will make you a well-rounded entrepreneur, not only in the cannabis business but any business you decide to pursue later.
Marketing
Marketing is another great degree for anyone trying to open a dispensary. Marketing is a major challenge for those in the field, as they have to deal with the pseudo legality of it. Many in the industry have to pay lots of dollars to work with specialized firms. However, you will be able to save yourself tons of money by getting a marketing degree. You’ll also be able to build a marketing team of your own.
Biology
Biology is another great field for anyone with a dispensary. You could then decide to start your own grow-op and develop proprietary strains. These could then be used to promote your brand. This is a particularly good option if you‘re looking to diversify in the future.
The dispensary business is not an easy one to crack, and those with a solid background have a definite leg up over the competition. So, consider all of these options if you want to increase your chances for growth and success.
