The Agripharmatech Certificate of Achievement (CA) offers three specialized tracks designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s agri-tech world.
Coursework is flexible enough to be completed in 2–3 semesters. Additionally, credits seamlessly transfer to higher degree institutions.
Limu Culture
Limu Culture combines traditional Native Hawaiian knowledge with Western scientific methods to explore key questions on limu and Hawaiian fishponds.
Students conduct research on limu-related topics crucial to Native Hawaiians and all people living in Hawai‘i, enhancing knowledge in limu ecology and production.
Internship opportunities will be available through partnerships with Pacific American Foundation (PAF) at Waikalua Loko I‘a, University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College program, and many non-profit organizations interested in limu cultivation.
This certification equips students for upcoming algal-based career opportunities by providing a fundamental understanding of sustainable algae cultivation, along with practical skills for algae production and biomanufacturing.
Job Outlook
5,000
Hawai‘i job opportunities in algae cultivation, harvesting, and processing
5,000
positions in algal biomanufacturing and fermentation
$40,000
minimum annual salaries for skilled algae workers
* Data based on an Algae Technology Education Consortium survey
Free Tuition for Limu Culture
Tuition free classes are supported by grants from the National Science Foundation’s Tribal Colleges and Universities Program (TCUP) and Carl D. Perkins Strengthening Career and Technical Education. A tuition waiver will be automatically applied once students are registered for Limu Culture classes. Apply now!
REQUIRED COURSES
A list of required courses and their descriptions can be found in the Windward CC course catalog.
Students can also enroll in the Limu Studies Certificate of Competence (CO), earning credits that can be accumulated for advancement to the Limu Culture CA. Additionally, credits from this program seamlessly transfer to higher degree institutions for further academic pursuits.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Jolie Dollar
Limu Center Coordinator and Instructor
808-236-9245
jolied@hawaii.edu
Plant Biotechnology
Plant Biotechnology focuses on transforming plant production to meet the global demand for healthier, more nutritious food crops, unique ornamentals, and plant-based pharmaceuticals while reducing our reliance on pesticides.
Careers
Job Outlook
2,296
agriculture farms on O‘ahu
45+
large biotechnology companies operating in Hawai‘i
1,700
jobs provided by large biotechnology companies
A list of required courses and their descriptions can be found in the Windward CC course catalog.
Contact Information
Hongwei Li, PhD
Assistant Professor of Botany & Microbiology
Coordinator, Agripharmatech program
808-236-9104
hli@hawaii.edu
Ethnopharmacognosy
What is Ethnopharmacognosy?
Ethnopharmacognosy explores the fascinating world of traditional medicines derived from natural sources, including medicinal and nutritious plants.
In the Ethnopharmacognosy CA track, students will research the traditional and historic use of ethnic plants with nutraceutical values.
This certificate highlights the medicinal potential of plants through hands-on experience in growing and preparing value-added plant-based products, along with developing entrepreneurial skills for marketing these products to the public.
Students are prepared for rewarding careers in agricultural biotechnology or pharmacognosy, entrepreneurship in agribusiness or plant-based product manufacturing.
Careers
Required Courses
A list of required courses and their descriptions can be found in the Windward CC course catalog.
Contact Information
Hongwei Li, PhD
Assistant Professor of Botany & Microbiology
Coordinator, Agripharmatech program
808-236-9104
hli@hawaii.edu