The Mortuary Science Degree offered at the American Academy McAllister Institute (AAMI) is an associate degree program in Occupational Studies, specifically designed to meet the requirements of today’s funeral service profession.
Since its inception in 1977, the program has maintained full accreditation from the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE). Students receive an in-depth education that combines general studies with specialized coursework, supplemented by expert guest lecturers from across the industry.
Flexible options allow students to choose between online and traditional campus learning, with convenient access to our New York City campus. All applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and meet all licensure criteria required by their state.
Admission Requirements
Applicants seeking admission to AAMI must present proof of high school graduation, a GED, or an equivalent qualification.
Alternatively, submission of a post-secondary transcript demonstrating at least nine non-developmental credits with a minimum GPA of 2.0 from a regionally accredited institution also qualifies applicants for admission. Legal and educational eligibility criteria relevant to the intended state of practice must be satisfied.
Advanced standing is available to applicants who hold 60 or more academic credits, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree, exempting them from general education courses. Despite advanced standing, completion of courses in Professional Ethics and History of Funeral Service remains mandatory. Particular program duration varies depending on the number of transfer credits and the student’s enrollment status.
Curriculum Overview
AAMI’s curriculum combines business, science, ethics, and hands-on training to prepare students for funeral service careers.
Courses cover topics such as directing, embalming, counseling, and law, with in-person lab work ensuring practical skill development, even for online students.
Transfer Credit Policies
Transfer credits from accredited institutions may be awarded for general education courses completed with a grade of C or higher, such as Communication Skills, Death and Human Development, Introduction to Science, and Principles of Mathematics. Students demonstrating competence through Challenge Exams, completed within four years, and achieving at least a B grade or scoring above 80 on AAMI’s assessment, also receive credits.
Credits from CLEP and DSST examinations are also accepted, with CLEP testing costs waived for military personnel and eligible civilians. Veterans may be eligible to seek reimbursement from the VA for CLEP tests. Official CLEP score reports are necessary for proper credit evaluation.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates from AAMI’s accredited program are trained to effectively communicate with grieving families and the community, understand ethical practices, comply with funeral service regulations, and uphold public health standards in handling remains.
Graduates demonstrate proficiency in embalming, restorative art, arrangement conferences, and funeral home management. Additionally, students acquire communication and research skills foundational to professional funeral service practice.
Careers In Funeral Services
Graduates of the Mortuary Science Degree at AAMI often enter prospective careers as funeral directors, embalmers, grief counselors, crematory operators, funeral home managers, and cemetery administrators.
Each role offers meaningful opportunities to serve their communities compassionately and professionally, providing graduates with stable employment in a respected field.
Apply To The Mortuary Science Degree Program Today
Launch your career in funeral service today and help make a difference in the lives of others. Visit our Apply Now page and take the first step toward achieving greater professional fulfillment with AAMI.