Roanoke College Launches Three-Year Bachelor’s Degree Program in Cannabis Studies 

Roanoke College is now offering a three-year bachelor’s degree in cannabis studies. The program is 100% online and approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. 

In a statement, Lisa Stoneman, assistant vice president and head of Roanoke College-Roanoke Valley, said the program is part of the college’s “commitment to ensuring higher education is accessible and aligned with the needs of the modern workforce.”  

“For many professionals, a degree is part of unlocking the next stage of their career. Our goal is to help them shorten the distance between where they are and where they want to be, all while providing the same high-quality education that defines a Roanoke College degree.” — Stoneman in a press release 

The press release notes that the Abridged Bachelor of Science in Cannabis Studies program is “a direct response to job market demand” and “launching at a time when 40 states have approved a form of marijuana legalization.”    

In June, Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) and lawmakers approved the launch of the state’s retail cannabis sales market as part of the state budget. Under the provisions, the adult-use market will launch in Virginia starting July 1, 2027. 

In 2024, Roanoke College created the state’s first four-year cannabis degree program.