Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service at Southern Illinois University is designed for aspiring professionals dedicated to providing compassionate and expert care during times of loss. This comprehensive undergraduate program addresses the critical need for skilled individuals in funeral service, covering everything from the scientific aspects of mortuary science to the empathetic art of funeral directing. You will explore essential subjects including embalming theory and practice, pathology, microbiology, and the legal regulations governing funeral service, preparing you for a meaningful career.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over four years, immersing you in a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with coursework in restorative art, funeral home management, and green funeral service, culminating in hands-on internships in both management and embalming. The program emphasizes developing your skills in funeral service psychology and counseling, ensuring you are prepared to support grieving families. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the qualifications and confidence to pursue licensure and a successful career as a funeral director and embalmer.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service program provides a comprehensive education in the field. Students will explore foundational subjects like funeral service psychology, mortuary regulations, and introductory microbiology, alongside practical skills in embalming theory and practice, restorative art, and cremation procedures. The curriculum also covers essential business aspects such as funeral service management, merchandising, marketing, and small business operations, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the funeral service industry.

1 Year 1 / Semester 1

Orientation to Funeral Service
Funeral Service Psychology
Mortuary Regulations
Introductory Microbiology
Pathology
Changing Landscapes in Green Funeral Service
Individual Study
Embalming Theory and Practice I
Embalming Theory and Practice II
Mortuary Law
Restorative Art Applications I
Restorative Art Applications II
Mortuary Science and Funeral Service Subjects
Funeral Service Management
Funeral Service Merchandising and Marketing
Embalming Chemistry
Funeral Home Small Business Management
Advanced Embalming Procedures
Principles and Practices of Cremation
Cremation and the Disposing of the Dead
Research Project
Funeral Service Counseling
Funeral Service Internship-Management
Funeral Service Internship-Embalming
Funeral Service Seminar

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,276.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,276.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,276.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,276.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,104.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,950.00 - USD 2,250.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Carbondale campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

53%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Northwestern Medicine

Nourish‑Tech Chinese Medical Centre Sdn Bhd.

Southern Illinois Healthcare

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Why Study Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service at Southern Illinois University

What makes this program stand out

Very Fast Application response time

Southern Illinois University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Southern Illinois University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service at Southern Illinois University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require separate permits, while off-campus work needs university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English test requirements: a Duolingo overall score of 95 or TOEFL overall score of 68, among others. Ensure you check all testing options to fulfill language prerequisites.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as funeral directors, embalmers, funeral service managers, restorative artists, and grief counselors.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers critical topics such as embalming theory and funeral home management. It combines theoretical learning with practical experience to prepare students for a successful career in funeral service.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service program at Southern Illinois University has an intake month in September. Make sure to prepare your applications ahead of time to join this comprehensive program.
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