Horticulture Certificate and AAS Degree

Cannabis Curriculum

Program Summary

The SUNY Niagara Horticulture Program, established in 1979, is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in the green industry. Our mission is to engage students in both the art and science of plants, with a strong focus on sustainable horticultural practices. Through a combination of scientific research, best management practices, and hands-on experience, students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their careers and contribute to building a greener community.

Our curriculum is designed around real-world projects that mirror the challenges professionals face in the industry. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, using professional tools and equipment. In addition, field trips, externships, and collaborative projects with local businesses and trade associations provide valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders. Job placement assistance is also available to help students transition into their careers.

About the Cannabis Curriculum

The Horticulture program with a focus on cannabis equips graduates for a wide range of careers in the growing cannabis industry. Career opportunities include roles as master growers, cultivators, pest management specialists, operations managers, postharvest technicians, production managers, and quality control technicians.

Students will learn how to work efficiently and safely while applying the latest research and techniques to improve business operations.

Cannabis Curriculum Includes:

The cannabis curriculum integrates courses from the Horticulture AAS or certificate programs, including:

Advanced First Aid & CPR
Business Management
Externship
Plant Biology
Soil Science
Plant Protection (Integrated Pest Management), including the NYS 30-Hour Pesticide Applicator Training Certificate

Additionally, students will complete 9-15 credits from electives, such as:

Cannabis: Society, Policy, and Compliance
Cannabis Biology
Cannabis Pest Management
Cannabis Production
Cannabis Products & Technologies
Culinary Cannabis and Edibles
Greenhouse Management
Introduction to Cannabis Biochemistry
Medical Applications of Cannabis

Online Learning Available:

Cannabis-related courses are offered in two formats:

Face-to-Face on Campus
Asynchronous Web-Based

Workforce Development

Cannabis-based courses are available through the SUNY Niagara Office of Workforce Development, allowing students to take courses on a non-credit, non-degree basis.

Microcredentials

SUNY-Approved Microcredentials are available in the following areas:

Cannabis Cultivation
Cannabis Manufacturing & Processing
Cannabis Business

These microcredentials range from 11-13 total credits.

Senior Scholars

Seniors aged 60+ can audit horticulture and cannabis courses for free.

Program Contact

Melissa Moore
Cannabis Instructor
Horticulture Program Co-Coordinator
Phone: 716-614-6413
Email: mmoore@niagaracc.suny.edu
Location: C-257