Skip to content
Search icon

Professional Diploma of Medicinal Cannabis

Advance your knowledge in the applications of plant-based therapies for patients in primary care.

ENROL NOW
Professional Diploma of Medicinal Cannabis

CPD

40 hrs Education
52 hrs Performance
39 hrs Outcome

Delivery

Fully online
Learn from
anywhere

Duration

103.5 hours
Self-paced
Start anytime

Overview

Understand the medical applications of cannabinoids in general practice as a tool to improve patient outcomes.

Who it is for and what you will learn:

  • Stay ahead of the curve in managing common conditions in general practice with cannabinoids.

  • Gain a plant-based medicine certification and enhance patient outcomes.

  • This course is suitable for physicians, nurse practitioners, and degree-qualified nurses.

  • CPD-accredited and university-reviewed.

Your education pathway

Professional Certificate

Establish foundational clinical knowledge and essential skills.

Learn more

Advanced Certificate

Develop advanced techniques and diagnostic capabilities.

Learn more

Professional Diploma

Master complex cases and achieve high-level clinical proficiency.

You are here

Learning outcomes

  • Improve your care for geriatric and palliative patients using plant-based medicine.   

  • Provide effective epilepsy treatment through advanced

  • plant-based medicine use.

  • Use plant-based therapies in the management of PTSD and other mental health conditions.

  • Explore additional approaches to support cancer patients beyond symptom relief.

  • Gain a plant-based medicine certification.

  • Make the Special Access Scheme-B (SAS-B) application on the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) online portal to confidently take control of patient care.

Course contents

Medicinal Cannabis - Geriatric and palliative medicine

Unlock the potential of medicinal cannabis in geriatric and palliative medicine with this comprehensive course. Tailored for healthcare professionals, it delves into the practical application of cannabinoids like THC and CBD to enhance symptom management and quality of life for elderly and terminally ill patients. Through detailed case studies, evidence-based insights, and flexible prescribing guidelines, you'll learn how to individualise treatments for chronic pain, anxiety, appetite loss, and more. This course emphasises realistic expectations, patient-centred care, and the ethical use of medicinal cannabis, equipping you to confidently incorporate it into your practice.

Medicinal Cannabis - Epilepsy – Adults and child

"Medicinal Cannabis: Epilepsy in Adults and Children" explores the therapeutic applications of cannabis-based medicines for managing epilepsy. This course offers an in-depth examination of cannabinoid treatments for severe syndromes such as Dravet Syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, and Tuberous Sclerosis Complex. Through evidence-based insights and clinical case studies, participants will learn about dosing protocols, treatment efficacy, drug interactions, and the future of cannabinoid therapies in epilepsy care.

Medicinal Cannabis - PTSD – Treatment in clinical practice

The "Medicinal Cannabis - PTSD Treatment in Clinical Practice" course equips healthcare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of how medicinal cannabis can be integrated into PTSD treatment plans. This evidence-based course examines PTSD's complex symptoms, conventional treatments, and the emerging role of cannabinoids, supported by research and real-world case studies. Participants will learn about treatment protocols, dosing strategies, patient assessments, and the practicalities of prescribing medicinal cannabis. Designed to enhance clinical skills and patient outcomes, the course is a vital resource for practitioners exploring innovative therapies for PTSD.

Medicinal Cannabis - Advanced mental health

"Medicinal Cannabis - Advanced Mental Health" is a specialised course designed for healthcare professionals to deepen their understanding of medicinal cannabis in the management of complex mental health conditions. Covering anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, and more, this evidence-based course examines the therapeutic potential, risks, and application of THC- and CBD-dominant formulations. Participants will gain insights into current research, clinical trials, and best practices for incorporating medicinal cannabis into treatment plans. The course also addresses potential drug interactions, patient safety considerations, and the evolving regulatory landscape, equipping clinicians with the tools to optimise mental health care.

Medicinal Cannabis - Cancer – a curative approach – where to beyond symptom relief

Explore the transformative potential of medicinal cannabis in cancer care with this comprehensive course. Delve into cutting-edge research, therapeutic applications, and the pharmacology of cannabinoids to understand their role in targeting cancer beyond symptom relief. This evidence-based course emphasises curative approaches, including managing pain, mitigating chemotherapy side effects, and enhancing quality of life for cancer patients. Designed for healthcare professionals, it offers practical insights into emerging treatments for breast and pancreatic cancer, the pharmacodynamics of cannabis, and its integration into oncology practice. Equip yourself with the knowledge to redefine cancer care with medicinal cannabis.

Medicinal Cannabis - Complex chronic disease

Explore the integration of medicinal cannabis into managing complex chronic diseases in this advanced course for healthcare professionals. Learn evidence-based approaches to address polypharmacy, multimorbidity, and challenging patient cases. This course delves into dosing, titration, and product selection while highlighting the therapeutic benefits and potential drug interactions of cannabis-based treatments. With real-world case studies and a focus on improving patient quality of life, this course equips practitioners with practical tools to incorporate medicinal cannabis safely and effectively.

Endocannabinoid support – advanced techniques for maximising ECS efficiency
Discover the science and advanced techniques behind supporting the endocannabinoid system (ECS) for optimal health. This course delves into the theory of Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED) and its potential impact on conditions like migraines, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome. Through evidence-based insights, case studies, and practical strategies, participants will explore dietary, lifestyle, and therapeutic approaches to enhance ECS efficiency. Perfect for healthcare professionals, this course equips you to integrate innovative solutions into patient care, improving outcomes in challenging and chronic conditions.
Medicinal Cannabis - GP Cases: Practice Review of Dosing
"Medicinal Cannabis – GP cases: Practical review of dosing" offers healthcare professionals a detailed guide on the effective and safe use of medicinal cannabis for a range of clinical conditions. This course equips practitioners with evidence-based dosing strategies, patient-specific considerations, and practical applications tailored to real-world GP cases. From managing chronic pain to addressing anxiety, insomnia, and autoimmune disorders, this course provides essential insights for integrating medicinal cannabis into patient care.

Meet your instructors

Dr Joe Kosterich Course Chair Dr Joe Kosterich MBBS
Professor Jonathon Arnold Course Chair Professor Jonathon Arnold Prof Cannabinoid Pharmacology
Dr John Teh Dr John Teh MBBS
Professor Jonathon Arnold Course Chair Professor Jonathon Arnold Prof Cannabinoid Pharmacology
Professor Marco Falasca Professor Marco Falasca
Dr Orit Holtzman Dr Orit Holtzman MBBS PhD
Dr Joe Kosterich Course Chair Dr Joe Kosterich MBBS
Dr John Teh Dr John Teh MBBS

Other ways to study this topic

Workshop

Complete your certificate online, then build practical skills in the accompanying optional hands-on workshop.

View workshop dates

Short courses

Study selected topics from this certificate as focused, standalone short courses for targeted upskilling in under 10 hours. 

Browse short courses

HealthCert 365

Access selected content from this certificate, plus 4,000+ hours of other CPD across a wide range of clinical areas.

Start free trial

CPD accreditation and course details

CPD Accreditation and Activities

Accredited CPD activities in this certificate

Each module in this certificate is an RACGP and ACRRM approved CPD activity. The certificate provides 50 hours of CPD for medical professionals in Australia.*

RACGP Activity Number ACRRM Activity Number Activity Title Education Hours Performance Hours
433884 38466 Medicinal Cannabis - Geriatric and palliative medicine 4.5 6.0
433893 38467 Medicinal Cannabis - Epilepsy – Adults and child 4.5 6.0
434272 38468 Medicinal Cannabis - PTSD – Treatment in clinical practice 4.0 6.0
434278 38469 Medicinal Cannabis - Advanced mental health 4.0 6.0
434286 38470 Medicinal Cannabis - Cancer – a curative approach – where to beyond symptom relief 4.0 6.0
434290 38471 Medicinal Cannabis - Complex chronic disease 4.0 6.0
434297 38472 Endocannabinoid support – advanced techniques for maximising ECS efficiency 4.5 6.0
436022 38473 Medicinal Cannabis - GP Cases: Practice Review of Dosing 4.5 6.0
Total hours 34.0 48.0

View the CPD Hours for all HealthCert Education activities. 

Outcome measurement

The comprehensive, peer-reviewed clinical audit associated with this Professional Diploma provides the minimum annual CPD outcome measurement hours.

*See our FAQs for more information about annual CPD requirements.

Entry Requirements

This Professional Diploma of Medicinal Cannabis is suitable for physicians, nurse practitioners, and degree-qualified nurses. The prerequisite course is the Advanced Certificate of Medicinal Cannabis (or qualification deemed equivalent).

Participants do not have to pass an IELTS test but, as the courses are delivered in English, proficiency in listening, reading and writing English is assumed.

Participants will require access to a computer/laptop, an internet connection and a basic level of technology proficiency to access and navigate the online learning portal.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

Professionally recognised qualifications and prior studies may be recognised for entry into this course if the learning outcomes match exactly. Please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for an individual assessment of your prior qualifications and experience.

Certification

This certificate course meets the minimum 50 hours CPD annual requirement across all three mandatory CPD activity types.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive the Professional Diploma of Medicinal Cannabis and CPD hours.

This certificate course:

  • Is reviewed by Griffith University to comply with RACGP/ACRRM standards.

  • Is quality-assured by Australian & New Zealand College of Cannabinoid Practitioners (ANZCCP).

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).

  • Is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP).

  • Is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP). The HKCFP recognises all courses endorsed by the RACGP. Hours are calculated differently.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Dubai. The number of CPD hours must be stated on the certificate. Please contact PLD@dhcr.gov.ae for more information.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in the UK. CPD events overseas, applicable to a doctor’s scope of practice, may be submitted for revalidation. Please confirm with your Responsible Officer.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Canada through the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Contact mainprocredits@cfpc.ca for more information.

  • Meets World Federation of Medical Education standards.

  • Has been independently developed with subject experts and does not receive education grants from any pharmaceutical company.

To learn more about the delivery of certificates in Australia and overseas, please visit our FAQs.

Pathways

Professional Diploma Pathway

This course is the last stage of the three-part Professional Diploma of Medicinal Cannabis. The education pathway is Professional Certificate of Medicinal Cannabis, Advanced Certificate of Medicinal Cannabis and Professional Diploma of Medicinal Cannabis. 

GPs working in Australia (except for in Tasmania) may prescribe plant-based therapies, however, as part of the guidelines of the TGA SAS-B, you will need to indicate that you have the knowledge necessary to do so. This program will equip you with the knowledge required to manage and prescribe plant-based therapies for various conditions and can serve as part of your documentation showing that you have undertaken education in this field when you decide to become an authorised prescriber. More information here.

University quality-assured and CPD-accredited education provider

This organisation is an RACGP-accredited CPD provider under the RACGP CPD Program.

RACGP logo
ACRRM logo
AMA
Bond-Sep-09-2026-05-46-43-7981-AM
Griffith
IDS-1
Graz
Vienna
University of South Wales
Torrens
NSCC-2
Rila
UQ logo

Frequently asked questions

What are the costs and payment options of the course?

Fees will vary based on the program and study option selected (fully online vs online + optional practical workshop). Payments can be made upfront or in monthly instalments. Special rates and various payment options are available. GP registrars and doctors in training enjoy a scholarship of up to $500. Talk to us to learn more.

What is the Alumni Support Program?

Completion of any HealthCert course or attendance at an event will enable you to access the HealthCert Alumni Program which includes:

  • Access to special alumni rates for new courses when they are released.

  • Special alumni price for HealthCert Conferences.

  • Exclusive advanced access to HealthCert events.

  • Regular Alumni Webinars pertaining to the course(s) you have attended. These will provide content review of the course and an opportunity to discuss case studies.

  • Access to the video lectures as seen during the course(s) that you have attended.

How will I receive my certificate?

HealthCert Education is pleased to issue digital credentials for alumni. Digital credentials are a permanent online record of your successful completion of a HealthCert course and are issued to all course participants in addition to PDF certificates. If you are based in Australia, you also have the option to order a hard copy of your digital certificate for a small additional fee.

How long will the course take to complete?

The recommended study duration of this certificate course is listed at the top of this page. The estimated duration includes study of the pre-course activities and readings, online lectures, live tutorials, and online assessment. This self-paced course offers the flexibility of 100% online study in your own time, at your own pace, in your own home or office, with no mandatory face-to-face requirements. You are not required to be online at specific times but can view and replay video lectures at your convenience.

Is this course recognised in my country?

All HealthCert courses meet World Federation of Medical Education standards. This certificate course qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) in Australia. It is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) in New Zealand. It is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP) in China. It is a self-submitted activity in Dubai and the United Kingdom. It is a self-submitted activity through the College of Family Physicians in Canada. If you live or work outside one of the above-mentioned countries, please contact us on admin@healthcert.com to discuss whether this course can be recognised in your country.

Cancellation policy: What happens if I can't attend a practical workshop?

Course/workshop cancellations and transfers policy

Should you be unable to attend a course or practical workshop you have registered for, please inform us asap at admin@healthcert.com so we can make your place available to waitlisted doctors.

Charges may apply for course/workshop cancellations and/or transfers. Click here for details.

What our alumni say

Join thousands of doctors who have advanced their clinical practice with our certificate courses.

"HealthCert courses have become the standard by which you gauge all others."

Dr K. Abolarinwa

"Good, courses with excellent speakers. I particularly enjoyed the case study scenarios which helped to integrate the knowledge gained."

- Dr A. Tucker

"This is the pathway to improve your confidence and evolve into the GP you aspire to be"

- Dr S. Shinwari

Get in touch with us

Our Education Advisors can assist you with any queries and tailor your education pathway to suit your current expertise, interests and career goals.

Richard - 1

Richard Silsby

Campbel Elton

Campbell Elton

Loretta Blackborough-1

Loretta Blackborough

Adam De Barros__1

Adam De Barros

Jules Wynyard edit circle (1)

Jules Wynyard

Call 1300 856 695
Schedule a call