How much education, training and experience do i need to do the job?

Hi Floretta,

The steps to becoming a mortician vary greatly from one state to the next and depend upon state regulations. You can find the information for your state, as well as contact information for state funeral service boards on the National Funeral Directors Association website. If your state requires postsecondary education, look for a program that is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education.

1. 
   

   If you live in a state that does not require a college education to become a funeral director, you may be able to find an entry-level position that provides on-the-job training. While this may seem to be the fastest way to start your new career,

   
   


2. 
   

   In the majority of states, funeral directors must hold at least an associate’s degree in mortuary science in order to become licensed. It typically takes around 2 years of full-time study to earn an associate’s degree and around 4 years to earn a bachelor’s degree.

   
   


3. 
   

   If your state requires that you assist in funerals and embalmings as part of your apprenticeship, you will be required, along with your sponsor, to submit complete documentation of each completed task.

   
   


4. 
   

   In most states, you must be licensed to work as a mortician or funeral director. Licensing requirements vary from one state to the next, but typically require that candidates complete at least a two-year program in mortuary science that is accredited through the ABFSE.

   
   


5. 
   

   While the field of funeral services is expecting higher than average job growth, there may still be very stiff competition for the most desirable positions. As such, you may need to look outside your immediate community for open positions and/or be willing to take a lesser position that provides an excellent opportunity for advancement.

   
   

More information in: http://www.morticianschool.net/become/

All the Best!