How to Become a Mortician

Morticians provide a necessary service for the living, as well as for those who have passed away. This career is not competitive, even though it is certainly one of the few to guarantee a steady paycheck and consistent working hours.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computers
• Online Career Search
• College Catalogs

1. Work at a funeral home during high school, doing miscellaneous tasks. This will allow you to understand what the field entails.

2. Check out the National Funeral Directors Association Web site (see nfda.org) to find your state's educational requirements for a mortician's license.

3. Note that many states require an associate's degree in funeral service education. Some call for a four-year degree, while others require only high school plus training.

4. Apply to any of the accredited colleges listed in the NFDA Web site, making certain you will receive the background needed for a mortician's license in your state.

5. Take the National Board Examination after you have completed your degree work.

6. Work as an apprentice for one to two years before, during or after attending college. The exact time depends on your state. Contact your state board early on for exact information.

Tips & Warnings

• Understand that much of a mortician's time is spent consulting with and consoling family members of the deceased.

• Be aware that in more than 25 states a mortician must take continuing education courses in order to renew the license.

• Job titles that are synonymous with mortician include funeral director and undertaker.

• Working hours are irregular and include evenings and weekends.

• Strict health regulations must be followed at all times to avoid the possible spread of disease.