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Enrollment Sinks At Oaksterdam University Amid Federal Pot Shop Crackdown

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) -- A federal crackdown on medical marijuana clinics has been a buzzkill for an Oakland school dubbed the "Princeton of Pot."

Enrollment has plummeted at Oaksterdam University, which teaches marijuana cultivation and pot-related careers.

Since 2007, the school has attracted 15,000 students, who pay hundreds of dollars to learn the ins and outs of pot.

KCBS' Janice Wright Reports:

But enrollment plunged after U.S. attorneys last fall began warning pot shops they're illegal under federal law. Some pot shop owners have been criminally charged.

Currently, Oaksterdam has only one class of 50 students.

Oaksterdam founder Richard Lee says despite the pressure, he believes the enrollment dip is a blip and he's confident that pot will be legalized.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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