Information About the Funeral Profession
 

The best way to get information about the funeral service profession is to talk to practicing funeral directors.  Talk to several funeral directors to learn about different job opportunities within funeral service, what to expect regarding the work environment, education and licensing requirements, hours, compensation, etc.

You may also want to review the funeral service article in the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the U.S. Department of Labor. This article describes the profession and provides projections on job opportunities in the next several years. A copy of the handbook is usually available at your high school, college or local library and via www.bls.gov/ooh

Becoming a licensed funeral director
In terms of licensure in funeral service, there are several steps to follow:

1.  Contact the state licensing board for the state in which you hope to work (or one of the nearby funeral service programs listed in the directory). Each state has its own educational requirements and you should identify the requirements for the state in which you wish to work. Local funeral homes may also be a source for this information.

2.  Choose a funeral service program. Graduation from an accredited funeral service program requires the completion of an associate degree, or its equivalent. Within the credits earned for the associate degree will be approximately 45 credits specifically in funeral service.

3.  Internship (aka apprenticeship) is usually required by each state. This takes place either before, during or after funeral service education, depending upon state licensing laws.

4. After graduation, you will take a national licensing examination and may also be required to take a state licensing examination.
 

Please contact our office if you have additional questions.