Funeral Service and Mortuary Science College Major Guide 2024

What is a Funeral Service and Mortuary Science Major?

The Funeral Service and Mortuary Science major is a specialized field of study that prepares students for careers in the funeral service industry. This major encompasses everything from the care and preparation of the deceased for burial or cremation to supporting grieving families during their time of need. As a student in this major, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the cultural, societal, and scientific aspects of death, as well as the business and legal considerations of funeral services.

If you're considering a career in this field, you'll be pleased to know that your education will equip you with the skills needed to provide compassionate care while adhering to professional and ethical standards. This major is not only about dealing with the deceased but also about providing support and comfort to those left behind, making it a deeply rewarding path for those who wish to make a difference during some of life's most challenging moments.

Top Courses Required for the Funeral Service and Mortuary Science Major

Pursuing a degree in Funeral Service and Mortuary Science means you'll be taking a variety of courses designed to prepare you for all aspects of the profession. Here are some of the top courses typically required:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body is fundamental. This course covers the structure and function of the body, which is essential for embalming and restorative art.

• Microbiology: You'll learn about microorganisms and how they affect the human body, which is crucial for understanding decomposition, sanitation, and the preservation of remains.

• Embalming Theory and Practice: This course teaches the art and science of preserving human remains. Topics include embalming chemistry, methods, and techniques, as well as safety precautions.

• Restorative Art: This course focuses on the techniques used to recreate the natural appearance of the deceased for viewing. Skills taught include cosmetology, sculpting, and color theory.

• Funeral Service Law: Knowledge of legal requirements and regulations governing funeral services is critical. This course covers topics such as compliance with federal and state laws, contracts, liability, and consumer protection.

• Grief Counseling: Providing emotional support to bereaved families is a key aspect of funeral service. In this course, you'll learn about grief theories, counseling techniques, and how to facilitate healing.

• Funeral Service Management: Learn about the business side of running a funeral home, including operations management, marketing, accounting, and human resources.

• Cultural & Religious Practices: Understanding various cultural and religious customs related to death and funerals is crucial for providing respectful and appropriate services. This course explores these practices globally.

• Ethics in Funeral Service: This course examines ethical issues faced by funeral service professionals, including professional conduct, confidentiality, and ethical decision-making.

Embarking on a major in Funeral Service and Mortuary Science prepares you for a career that's both challenging and profoundly meaningful. Through these courses, you'll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to support individuals during their most difficult times with dignity, respect, and compassion. Whether you're drawn to the scientific aspects of the profession or the opportunity to provide solace to grieving families, this major offers a unique blend of science, art, and human service.

Funeral Service and Mortuary Science Major FAQs

What Can You Do With a Degree in Funeral Service and Mortuary Science?

With a degree in Funeral Service and Mortuary Science, you open the door to several career paths, including but not limited to:

• Funeral Director: Oversee funeral services, manage funeral home operations, and provide support to bereaved families.
• Embalmer: Specialize in preserving and preparing bodies for funerals and burial.
• Mortuary Science Instructor: Teach future morticians and funeral directors at academic institutions.
• Pre-need Counselor: Assist individuals with pre-planning their own funeral services.
• Sales: Work with companies that supply products and services to the funeral industry, such as caskets, urns, or memorial keepsakes.

What Skills Will You Gain from This Major?

In a Funeral Service and Mortuary Science program, you'll develop a unique set of skills that are essential in the field:

• Technical skills for embalming and restorative art.
• Communication skills to interact effectively with grieving families.
• Business management skills for running a funeral home or related business.
• Ethics and empathy to provide compassionate care to those dealing with loss.
• Legal knowledge related to funeral services and regulations.

Is Licensing Required to Work in This Field?

Yes, licensing is a critical component of working within the funeral service and mortuary science field. Requirements vary by state but typically include:

• Completing an accredited Funeral Service or Mortuary Science program.
• Passing a national board exam.
• Serving an apprenticeship under a licensed professional for 1-3 years.
• Passing a state board exam (in most states).

It's important to research the specific requirements for the state where you intend to practice.

What Type of Courses Can You Expect to Take?

Your coursework will cover a broad range of topics to prepare you for various aspects of the profession. Here are some examples of classes you might encounter:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding human body systems.
• Embalming Theory and Practice: Techniques for preserving and presenting bodies.
• Funeral Service Law: Regulations governing the industry.
• Grief Counseling: Methods for supporting bereaved individuals.
• Funeral Home Management: Business aspects of running a funeral home.

How Long Does It Take to Complete This Degree?

The duration of a Funeral Service and Mortuary Science program can vary depending on several factors:

• Associate’s Degree: Typically requires 2 years of full-time study.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Usually takes 4 years of full-time study.

Note that some states may require a bachelor's degree for licensure, while others accept an associate’s degree. Additionally, the apprenticeship period required for licensing can extend the time before you're fully qualified.

Are There Opportunities for Advancement in This Field?

Yes, there are numerous opportunities for advancement within the funeral service and mortuary science field. With experience, you could:

• Own or manage a funeral home.
• Specialize in areas like restorative art or pre-need planning.
• Become a sales manager or consultant for funeral products companies.
• Pursue further education to become a mortuary science educator.

Continued professional development and networking within industry associations can also open doors to advanced roles.

Funeral Service and Mortuary Science Major Resources

Professional Associations

In the field of Funeral Service and Mortuary Science, connecting with professional associations can be a significant step in building your career. These organizations offer a wealth of resources, including networking opportunities, educational materials, and industry insights. Here are some key associations you should consider joining:

• National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA)
• International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA)
• National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc. (NFDMA)
• Cremation Association of North America (CANA)
• Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice (APFSP)

Industry Publications

Staying informed about the latest trends, research, and news in the Funeral Service and Mortuary Science sector is crucial. These publications are excellent resources for industry insights and continuing education:

• The Director Magazine, published by the National Funeral Directors Association, offers a range of articles focused on industry trends, business management, and new technologies in funeral service.
• American Funeral Director, providing coverage on funeral service industry news, regulatory updates, and business advice.
• Funeral Business Advisor, which focuses on helping funeral home owners and managers navigate the challenges of the business side of funeral service.
• Mortuary Management, offering insights into funeral service practices, business management, and ethical considerations.

Other Resources

Beyond professional associations and publications, there are several other resources that can support your career in Funeral Service and Mortuary Science. These include:

• Career.Guide: Your go-to platform for career advice, resume tips, interview preparation, and guidance on navigating your career path in Funeral Service and Mortuary Science.
• State Licensing Boards: Each state has its own licensing requirements for funeral directors and embalmers. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements in your state or any state where you plan to practice.
• Continuing Education Providers: Many organizations offer continuing education courses that are essential for maintaining licensure and staying current with industry standards and innovations.

By leveraging these associations, publications, and resources, you'll be well-equipped to advance your career in the Funeral Service and Mortuary Science field. Remember, staying connected and informed is key to success in this ever-evolving profession.