Cannabis Product Development

The University of Rhode Island is an equal opportunity employer committed to the principles of affirmative action. January 2, 2024

To Whom It May Concern:

Shelley McWilliams completed the Certificate in Cannabis Studies from The University of Rhode Island, College of Pharmacy in May 2023. The online Certificate in Cannabis Studies was designed to meet the needs of the explosive job growth within the industry by educating students on the science of cannabis pharmacology and providing them with the specialized skills necessary to perform at the highest level safely and ethically within the industry. The overall goal of the program is to provide graduates with a depth of knowledge about the safe production and dissemination of cannabis-related information and products. Students completing the certificate can 1) identify and evaluate sources of evidence-based information to make informed decisions related to therapeutics and cannabis production, 2) conceptually design reliable and safe cannabis products within the framework of an existing regulatory environment, and 3) apply knowledge of the bioactivity of cannabis to effectively assess treatment options to support and advise clients and healthcare providers.

Shelley demonstrated these skills by completing the 4 three-credit courses and a final project on a therapeutic cannabis product. The foundational course introduced the fundamentals of cannabis history, culture, ethics, and state/federal regulations. It also familiarized students to the key chemical and pharmacological principles necessary to understand the function of cannabis in humans and the development of cannabis-based products. The additional three courses develop core competencies in cannabis chemical separation and analysis, safe product development and manufacturing, and the evaluation of the therapeutic potential of cannabis. Throughout the certificate program, Shelley worked on a pinnacle assignment synthesizing the concepts in each course together and culminating with the real-world experience of researching and designing, in concept, a cannabis product. The skills developed through the certificate program will prepare Shelley for the evolving and expanding cannabis industry. Shelley was one of the few students who would come to office hours to discuss the material further and whom I got to know as more than just a name. Shelley’s passion for the field of cannabis is evident and I’m positive Shelley will become a valued part of any group joined. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at *********@***.***. Sincerely,

Stephanie Forschner-Dancause, Ph.D.

Director of Cannabis Sciences Programs

College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island