The University of Miami breaks new ground this spring by introducing its first undergraduate cannabis courses, a move that places the institution at the forefront of a heated educational debate. While critics question the appropriateness of cannabis studies in traditional academia, supporters argue these courses address urgent healthcare gaps as medicinal marijuana gains legal traction nationwide. Dr. Denise Vidot’s curriculum focuses on epidemiology and human disease, targeting future healthcare professionals who will inevitably encounter cannabis patients. The controversy intensifies as other universities watch UM’s bold experiment unfold.
The University of Miami is launching its first cannabis-focused undergraduate courses in Spring 2025, marking a notable step in addressing critical knowledge gaps within healthcare education. The two courses, Cannabis Epidemiology (BPH 370) and The Endocannabinoid System and Human Disease (BPH 371), will be housed in the School of Nursing and Health Studies but remain accessible to undergraduate students across all majors.
Dr. Denise Vidot, a cannabis epidemiologist and UM Miller School of Medicine Ph.D. graduate, designed both courses to prepare students for diverse careers in healthcare, research, or policy relating to cannabis. The curriculum specifically targets current knowledge deficiencies that healthcare professionals face regarding medicinal cannabis applications.
Cannabis Epidemiology introduces students to epidemiologic methods with a focus on cannabis and social determinants of health. The course emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to apply epidemiological principles directly to cannabis medicine.
Meanwhile, The Endocannabinoid System and Human Disease covers evidence-based connections between cannabis use and chronic diseases, teaching students to design educational interventions based on scientific research.
Both courses analyze the benefits and risks of cannabis through a public health lens, addressing urgent contemporary health questions. National cannabis use has increased considerably, particularly among young adults aged 18-25, while THC potency in cannabis products has surged from 3.7% to 30% over the past decade.
These dramatic changes, combined with new administration methods like vaporizers, create emerging research questions that healthcare professionals must understand. The timing reflects growing concerns about cannabis-related health impacts.
Cannabis-associated cardiovascular disease risk remains an open research question, though some evidence suggests CBD may offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit cardiovascular health. Dr. Vidot has secured a $2.9 million NIH grant specifically for cannabis and heart health research, demonstrating the field’s research significance.
UM joins a small but expanding group of U.S. universities offering undergraduate cannabis curricula. Northern Michigan University offers full degrees in related topics like Medicinal Plant Chemistry, while other institutions focus on business, law, chemistry, and cannabis physiology. The courses help prepare students for a field where professionals must navigate the complex regulatory landscape that includes conflicts between state and federal laws. The rapid advancements in marijuana science are creating increasing demand for educated professionals who can navigate this evolving field.
However, many programs elsewhere restrict access to upper-level students or offer courses only as electives. UM’s approach differs by emphasizing healthcare and epidemiological aspects over business or cultivation topics.
The program development stems from Dr. Vidot’s research expertise and personal experiences pursuing cannabis knowledge for family medical needs. Her participation in national educational committees on medicinal cannabis has informed the curriculum design, ensuring courses address gaps highlighted by both students and faculty.
These courses represent educational innovation in a rapidly evolving field where healthcare professionals increasingly encounter patients using cannabis products. The initiative represents a pioneering effort as these courses are the first of their kind in the United States to focus specifically on cannabis epidemiology and the endocannabinoid system at the undergraduate level. By providing evidence-based education about cannabis epidemiology and the endocannabinoid system, UM aims to better prepare future healthcare workers, researchers, and policymakers to navigate complex questions surrounding cannabis use and public health policy in an era of changing regulations and increasing therapeutic applications.
