Mortuary Science
There are two ways to become qualified in mortuary science. A student may take 60 semester hours of prerequisite courses and then transfer to an accredited program in mortuary science. Other students choose to complete a Bachelor’s degree (with Business Administration as a common, but not necessary, major) and then go on to school or program in mortuary science. Mortuary science programs expect applicants to take courses in several disciplines, be broadly educated and have an understanding of and commitment to the profession. Students are encouraged to learn about mortuary science and customer service through internships, volunteer activities and employment.
Application requirements vary among schools, therefore a student interested in a career in mortuary science should identify the schools in which he or she is interested as early as possible. The student should then consult with his or her advisor and coordinator on a regular basis to discuss course selection and application procedures.
Mortuary science programs select students on the basis of 1) undergraduate academic performance; 2) letters of evaluation from professors and other professional people; and 3) a personal interview (most programs). Admission to mortuary science programs is fairly competitive, and licensure requires an apprenticeship in an approved funeral home.