Oakland, California has long been a hub of progressive movements, and in 1995 it became the birthplace of an idea that would reshape cannabis education worldwide: Oaksterdam University. Conceived as the spearhead of the cannabis reform movement, Oaksterdam was envisioned as “the world’s first cannabis college.” The concept was the brainchild of Jeff Jones, co-founder of the Oakland Cannabis Buyers’ Cooperative (OCBC), which famously offered bike delivery services to medical cannabis patients in the region.
The Beginning Of A New Era In Cannabis Accessibility and Advocacy
With grower Richard Lee of Houston, Texas supplying high-quality cannabis to the cooperative, prices were driven down, and by 1996 Oakland city government permitted the first medical cannabis dispensary. This milestone marked the beginning of a new era in cannabis accessibility and advocacy. A decade later, Lee’s visit to the Cannabis College in Amsterdam inspired him to solidify the vision for Oaksterdam University. In 2007, the school opened its doors to 22 students, offering classes in horticulture, cooking, extracts, and legal issues.
Comprehensive Education Provided
Today, Oaksterdam University operates with two main program streams—Live and Self-Paced—providing comprehensive education on all aspects of the medical marijuana industry. Students learn from pioneers of the cannabis movement, including Jeff Jones, Chris Conrad, Attorney Lawrence Lichter, Dennis Peron, and Richard Lee. While the university cannot obtain formal accreditation due to cannabis remaining a Schedule 1 drug under federal law, it does provide certificates of completion for all courses, giving students tangible recognition of their expertise.
More Than An Education Institution
For cannabis tourists, Oaksterdam University is more than an educational institution—it is a cultural landmark. Visitors to Oakland can immerse themselves in the history of cannabis reform, explore the campus, and attend lectures or workshops that highlight the plant’s role in medicine, law, and society. The university embodies the spirit of activism and innovation, making it a must-see destination for those who want to connect with the roots of cannabis culture in the United States.
Cannabis tourism in California has grown significantly since recreational legalization in 2018, with travelers seeking experiences that go beyond dispensary visits. Oaksterdam offers a unique opportunity to engage with cannabis on an intellectual and historical level. Tourists can learn about cultivation techniques, explore the legal battles that shaped the industry, and gain insights into the ongoing fight for reform. For many, visiting Oaksterdam is akin to visiting a museum of cannabis history—except here, the exhibits are living, breathing classes taught by the very people who helped build the movement.
Oaksterdam University stands as a testament to resilience and progress. It is not only a place of learning but also a symbol of how far the cannabis movement has come. For cannabis travelers, it offers a rare chance to combine tourism with education, activism, and cultural enrichment. In the heart of Oakland, Oaksterdam continues to inspire, educate, and attract visitors from around the world who want to experience the epicenter of cannabis reform.
In short, Oaksterdam University is more than a school—it is a destination, a story, and a movement, making it one of the most compelling stops for cannabis tourists in California.
Why Beard Bros Travel Features Oaksterdam University
At Beard Bros Travel, we believe cannabis culture extends to travel and tourism. These spotlights invite our readers—especially cannabis enthusiasts —to think differently about travel. Whether you’re blazing new trails or just looking for places that spark conversation and wonder, Oaksterdam University is a trip worth taking.
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