If you understand death not as something to be feared but more as a natural and inevitable facet of life, want to spend your career helping people plan a funeral during one of the more difficult times of their lives, and want to work in a recession-proof industry that is the epitome of stability, a degree in Mortuary Science could be a great fit for you.

Types of Degrees

Mortuary Science students typically pursue a bachelor's degree (4 years), as many states require a bachelor's degree in mortuary science in order to be professionally licensed. Associate degrees (2 years) are also an option in states where a bachelor's degree is not required, and can provide students with the fundamental understanding and experience to succeed in this field.

Admission Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with a strong academic background helping applicants obtain acceptance into their desired school. Each school has its own specific requirements, making it important for you to explore several options before settling on a particular school.

Career Opportunities After Earning A Mortuary Science Degree

The range of career opportunities available to someone with a degree in Mortuary Science include:

• Mortician/Undertaker/Funeral Director
• Funeral Service Worker
• Funeral Home Manager
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.

Post Graduate Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean salary for Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers was $58,020 in 2023 ¹ while Funeral Service Workers earned a median salary of $60,580 ² and Funeral Home Managers earned a mean salary of $84,800 in 2023. ³

Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on career chosen, but on geographical location and employer. Conditions in your area may vary.

References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Careers associated with these educational opportunities often require additional degrees and certifications not offered as part of the educational opportunities presented by this website.
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.