Master’s | Dietary Supplements & Medical Cannabis
Online Master of Science in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis
The University of Mississippi proudly introduces its Master of Science in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis, a pioneering program that offers a holistic exploration of two rapidly evolving industries, providing comprehensive knowledge from the ground to the consumer. This SACSCOC accredited program delves into the intricate facets of dietary supplements and medical cannabis, covering their rich history, legislative frameworks, and research and development.
Overseen by the School of Pharmacy, this 30-credit-hour fully online program builds on the University's more than half-century legacy of studying cannabis and dietary supplements. It presents a well-rounded curriculum, dedicating equal time to both disciplines. Whether you aspire to influence government regulations, advance research, lead product innovation, or excel in the dietary supplement or medical cannabis sectors, this program equips you with a multidisciplinary foundation for a successful career.
Program Info
In the last year Mississippi joined the growing list of states legalizing medical cannabis. We aim to contribute to the highly regulated medical cannabis industry which encompasses dispensaries, growers, researchers, and product developers by providing a thorough education. Simultaneously, the dietary supplement industry is experiencing significant growth, with increasing demand for products that promote well-being and support overall health. As consumers seek alternatives to enhance their health and wellness, we aim to educate the professionals involved.
The online Master’s in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis provides individuals across the nation with the knowledge and expertise needed to actively contribute to these evolving industries.
Quick Facts
FORMAT
Fully Online
CREDITS
30
ADMISSION TERMS
Fall, Spring, Summer
PROGRAM DURATION
2 years
Why Earn a Master’s in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis at Ole Miss?
The Ole Miss program stands on decades of scientific research and education, particularly from the School of Pharmacy and National Center for Natural Products Research and more recently, the National Center for Cannabis Research and Education.
- For over 50 years, Ole Miss has pushed the boundaries of scientific and medical knowledge surrounding cannabis and related compounds like THC and CBD. The University receives contracts from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to cultivate marijuana and related materials. Prior to this, Ole Miss supplied the Drug Enforcement Administration with contaminant-free cannabis and extracts meeting strict FDA standards for clinical research purposes.
- The National Center for Natural Products Research collaborates with many sectors to explore natural products that can be used to improve human health and agriculture as crops, pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and agrochemicals. The Center’s research and development efforts focus on dietary supplements, crops, and pharmaceuticals.
- The National Center for Cannabis Research and Education explores the plant’s health effects to encourage new studies, influence policymaking and outreach efforts, and develop education programs. Insights help advance treatments for serious diseases, influence cannabis-related drug developments, and allow health professionals to create more informed and balanced patient care plans.
In addition to meeting industry and state demands for professionals knowledgeable about both medical cannabis and dietary supplements, the program:
Careers
The Master’s in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis nurtures two types of career paths:
- The structure supports existing cannabis or dietary supplement professionals considering a leadership, research, or policy role.
- The coursework helps researchers and industry workers better understand these burgeoning industries and their growing influence on health and wellness.
On a broader scale, the dietary supplement industry is booming, and the wider adoption of cannabis legalization continues to expand and diversify nationwide employment opportunities, including here in Mississippi. Possessing this knowledge gives you an edge for embarking on a career in:
- Government agencies related to consumer products
- Cannabis-regulating state agencies
- Cannabis- and dietary supplement-related research and development
- The dietary supplement industry
- The pharmaceutical industry
- Healthcare policy
Curriculum
The School of Pharmacy’s Department of BioMolecular Sciences structures the Master’s in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis as a two-year, 30-credit-hour program. Students spend one year focusing on dietary supplements and their second on medical cannabis.
Within this format, the program covers the science, manufacturing, and formulation behind natural products and all applicable federal and state regulations.
Admission Requirements
Selection for admission into the online Master of Science in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis will be based upon the following admission requirements:
- Grade-Point Average: A cumulative grade-point average during last 66 hours of undergraduate course work on college transcripts. At least 22 hours of coursework must be in the basic or applied sciences. Programmatic pre-requisites are classes in chemistry and biology; however, work experience can substitute for the courses.
- Personal Statement: A personal statement of career goals, preparation and readiness for graduate school, and motivational factors related to pursuing graduate study in dietary supplements and medical cannabis.
- Letters of References: At least two letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic references.
UPCOMING ADMISSIONS DEADLINES
Fall 2024: July 1
Spring 2025: November 1
Summer 2025: April 1
Pioneer the Possibilities of Medical Cannabis and Dietary Supplements
Carve out your place in two in-demand industries to advance policy, patient care, research, or product design. To learn more about the MS in Dietary Supplements and Medical Cannabis program, email Dr. David Colby dacolby@olemiss.edu.