It takes a special blend of compassion and business skills to work in the
funeral services industry. Programs teach you how to help others say their
last goodbyes.
The American Board of Funeral Service Education accredits mortuary science
programs. Both two- and four-year programs are available.
Kelly Smith is the public relations manager for the National Funeral Directors
Association. He believes students should consider a four-year program because
it may soon become a requirement.
"This ought to be a student's first option," he says. "If you can't do
that, then go to the nearest mortuary school."
Funeral directors must be licensed in every state except Colorado.
Requirements vary by state, but in general, you have to be at least 21. You
also need to study mortuary science, complete an apprenticeship and pass an
exam.
"You should get your education and get your license in the area you plan
to work," says Ward Yorke, a professor in the funeral service education program
at a college.
Yorke says his program consists of a year of classroom studies and a one-year
apprenticeship. Classes cover human anatomy, physiology, embalming, writing
skills for health sciences, psychology of grief and small business management.
The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science (PIMS) offers a diploma in
embalming and funeral directing, an associate in specialized business degree
for funeral service management and an associate in specialized technology
degree in funeral service arts and sciences.
The curriculum includes classes in anatomy, pathology, microbiology, chemistry
and environmental health. The funeral-related courses include funeral service
law, funeral management, regulatory compliance and embalming.
"There is an embalming lab and a restorative art lab," says Gene Ogrodnik,
PIMS president and CEO.
Yorke says high school students should take advanced science classes
and have a solid background in English classes as well. Emergency first
aid is also a plus.
His college, for example, requires applicants to have a standard first
aid certificate. They also need work experience in a funeral home.
Along with tuition, students can expect to pay for books and lab fees.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Funeral
Directors
FuneralNet
Links and resources, including career information
National Funeral Directors Association
Get more background on a career in funeral service