The Associate Degree in Occupational Studies in Funeral Service at AAMI prepares students for careers as licensed funeral directors and embalmers. Our comprehensive curriculum includes instruction in science, law, ethics, business, and hands-on restorative arts and embalming techniques.
Below is a summary of the course structure and subject areas covered during the program. For full course descriptions and prerequisites, download the Catalog PDF or contact the Office of Admissions.
Program Areas Of Study
Legal, Ethical & Regulatory
- Business Law
- Professional Ethics
- Mortuary Law
- State Rules and Regulations
General Education
- Introduction to Science
- English Composition
- General Psychology
- Principal of Mathematics
- Anatomy I
- Introduction to Microbiology
- Introduction to Chemistry
- Introduction to Pathology
Social Sciences & Humanities
- Funeral Service Psychology & Counseling
- Sociology of Funeral Service
- History of Funeral Service
Public Health & Technical
- Anatomy II & III
- Chemistry for Embalmers
- Microbiology for Embalmers
- Pathology for Embalmers
- Principles of Embalming I, II & III
- Clinical Embalming
- Color & Cosmetics
- Restorative Art
Business Management & Professional
- Funeral Home Directing
- Small Business Management
- Accounting I & II
- Funeral Home Management & Merchandising
- Crematory and Cemetery Operations
- Funeral Home Practicum
- Communication Skills
- Comprehensive Science Review
- Federal Trade Commission for Funeral Service
- Comprehensive Arts Review
Clinical Requirements
Students must complete:
- A minimum of 10 clinical embalming during the Clinical Embalming course (PHT 412)
- Restorative Art coursework (PHT 415), including a required on-campus lab for online students
Due to chemical exposure risks, AAMI strongly recommends that pregnant students do not enroll in Clinical Embalming (PHT 412) or participate in any embalming procedures during pregnancy or within six months after birth.
Blackboard Orientation (Required For All Students)
All new students, campus and online, must complete BLB 001: Introduction to Blackboard before accessing other courses. This 0-credit pass/fail course introduces AAMI systems, time management, and online navigation tools.
Co-Requisites & Prerequisites
Many courses require prerequisite completion or must be taken alongside co-requisite subjects. Course sequencing is carefully designed to:
- Build foundational knowledge
- Align with clinical readiness
- Prepare students for the National Board Exam
Please consult your Academic coordinator or AAMI’s course catalog for details.
What can you do with a mortuary science degree?
A mortuary science degree prepares graduates for careers in the funeral service industry. Common career paths include funeral director, embalmer, mortician, crematory operator, funeral home manager, or bereavement support professional. Graduates may work in funeral homes, crematories, memorial service organizations, or related fields that support families through end-of-life arrangements.
How long does it take to get a mortuary science degree?
The length of a mortuary science degree program typically depends on the program structure and whether a student attends full-time or part-time. Most associate degree programs can be completed in about two years, including coursework in science, funeral service education, and clinical training.
How much do mortuary science graduates earn?
Salaries for mortuary science graduates can vary depending on experience, location, and role within the funeral service industry. Entry-level funeral service professionals may earn a moderate starting salary, with earnings increasing over time as they gain experience, licensure, and managerial responsibilities.
Does the program prepare me for the funeral service licensing exam (NBE)?
Yes. The mortuary science curriculum is designed to prepare students for the National Board Examination (NBE), which is required for funeral service licensure in many states. Coursework in science, funeral service practice, and professional standards helps students build the knowledge needed to successfully complete the exam.
What are the admission requirements for the mortuary science program?
Admission requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of an application, and submission of academic transcripts. Some programs may also require prerequisite coursework, placement testing, or additional documentation as part of the admissions review process.
Does the program include hands-on embalming training?
Yes. The program includes hands-on training through clinical embalming and restorative art laboratory experiences. Students gain practical experience under professional supervision to develop the technical skills required for funeral service practice.