Becoming a Funeral Director

A Funeral Director Career

Also known as undertakers or morticians, funeral directors handle many of the important details involving a recently-deceased person, including compassionately helping the family with decisions about the funeral or memorial service, and burial or cremation. They explain the different types of services and costs for each, and make all the arrangements as chosen. Most funeral directors also do the embalming of the deceased individual, and sometimes they perform the funeral service or memorial ceremony. The work requires excellent communication skills, empathy as well as scientific and technical ability. Funeral directors often work in partnership with one or more other directors, although some manage a solo business. They work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, and must be available quickly when a family needs them.

High School

A person interested in becoming a funeral director can begin as early as high school by taking as many science courses as possible, particularly biology and chemistry. Gaining experience in public speaking also is beneficial.

Post-Secondary School

Next, the individual must obtain a two-year associate degree or four-year bachelor's degree in mortuary science, through a program accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education. Mortuary science courses include anatomy and physiology, embalming methods, restorative techniques, safety and sanitation, accounting and business management, and client services.

Apprenticeship

Most states require students to complete an apprenticeship of between one to three years with an experienced and licensed funeral director. Apprentices obtain practical experience in all tasks they will be expected to handle when they become funeral directors, including working with the family, doing embalming and transporting the deceased person to the cemetery or crematory.

Licensing

All states require a funeral director to be licensed, and a separate or combination license is also required by all states to perform embalming services. Some states have reciprocity agreements so a funeral director licensed in one state can legally work in the reciprocal state as well. Applicants for licensing usually must be at least 21 years of age and have acquired at least two years of formal education including mortuary science studies.

Resources

• Further information on a career as a funeral director