If you’re a veteran considering transitioning away from military service, it can be daunting to find a career that reflects the values that you have built over years of service. Earning a degree in mortuary science (opens in a new window) offers an opportunity to continue serving others through compassionate, meaningful work.
Federal education programs, including the GI Bill and other Veterans Affairs benefits, can help make pursuing a mortuary science degree financially attainable while also preparing students for a respected profession with steady demand.
| In This Article: Veterans have several education funding options that can help support a career in funeral service. Here’s an overview of available benefits, guidance on choosing an approved program, and reasons mortuary science often appeals to students with military experience. |
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Why Funeral Service Appeals to Many Veterans
Military service builds skills that transfer well into funeral service. Professionalism, discipline, attention to detail, and respect for ceremony all play an important role when helping families during one of life’s most difficult moments.
Funeral directors and mortuary professionals work closely with families, coordinate services, complete legal documentation, and help preserve dignity throughout the funeral process. Many veterans appreciate the opportunity to continue serving their communities through work that is rich with purpose every day.
The potential for career growth is another advantage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for funeral service workers is projected to grow 4% between 2024 and 2034 (opens in a new window), with approximately 5,800 job openings each year on average.
Can You Use the GI Bill for Mortuary Science?
In many cases, veterans can use the GI Bill for mortuary science education.
Eligible students may use the Post-9/11 GI Bill (opens in a new window) at approved schools offering qualifying funeral service or mortuary science programs. Depending on eligibility and enrollment status, benefits may help cover:
- Tuition and mandatory fees
- Monthly housing allowance
- Books and supplies
- Certain educational expenses
Benefit amounts vary based on military service, enrollment status, and the institution selected. Veterans should review their personal eligibility through the Department of Veterans Affairs before making enrollment decisions.
Students considering online or hybrid education should also understand that housing allowance amounts may differ depending on the course. Asking questions early helps avoid surprises during the enrollment process.
Other Education Benefits for Mortuary Science
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is one option, but several additional programs may support veterans pursuing a veterans’ mortuary science degree.
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
Veteran Readiness and Employment (opens in a new window), or Chapter 31, may be available to veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities. The program helps participants prepare for suitable careers through education, training, counseling, and employment services when approved by Veterans Affairs.
Funeral service education may qualify if it aligns with an individual’s rehabilitation and employment plan.
Montgomery GI Bill
Some veterans remain eligible for the Montgomery GI Bill, which provides education funding based on enrollment status and individual eligibility. Military service history determines which benefit program offers the greatest value.
Military Tuition Assistance
Active-duty service members planning a future career in funeral service may have access to Military Tuition Assistance before separating from the armed forces. Starting coursework early can create a smoother transition into civilian employment.
Choosing the Right Mortuary Science Program
Selecting a school involves much more than comparing tuition costs. Veterans should evaluate each program carefully before enrolling.
| Consideration | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Veterans Affairs approval | Confirms eligible education benefits may be used |
| Accreditation | Demonstrates the program meets recognized educational standards |
| State licensure preparation | Helps students understand licensing requirements where they plan to work |
| Learning format | Online, hybrid, and campus options may affect scheduling and housing benefits |
| Student support | Academic advising and financial aid guidance can simplify the enrollment process |
The GI Bill Comparison Tool (opens in a new window) is a valuable resource for reviewing approved schools and estimating available benefits. Before enrolling, prospective students should make sure the program is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education and aligns with licensure education requirements in the state where they want to work.
Why Funeral Service Makes a Strong Second Career
Many veterans seek work that reflects the same sense of purpose they experienced during military service. Funeral service offers opportunities to help families during meaningful moments while working in a respected profession built on compassion, responsibility, and professionalism.
Daily responsibilities require organization, clear communication, emotional resilience, and attention to detail. Veterans often hone those qualities through years of military training and service.
Strong interpersonal skills can also support long-term career growth. Funeral homes value professionals who communicate with empathy, work well under pressure, and remain dependable throughout every stage of funeral planning.
Taking the Next Step Toward a Funeral Service Career
Education benefits for mortuary science can make career training much more affordable for eligible veterans. Reviewing available Veterans Affairs programs, confirming school approval, and understanding state licensing requirements are excellent first steps toward entering the profession.
The American Academy McAllister Institute (AAMI) welcomes veterans who are ready to build a meaningful future in funeral service (opens in a new window). Our flexible learning options, career-focused education, and dedicated student support help military-connected students move confidently toward an associate degree and a profession built on service, respect, and compassion.
Veterans can also review our military and veteran admissions information (opens in a new window) to learn about available education benefits and support for eligible applicants.