When a person dies, the family hires a funeral director to take care of the funeral arrangements. The director works closely with the family of the deceased and plans the memorial service and other details such as making arrangements for transporting the body to the mortuary, selecting pall bearers and providing transportation for mourners.
In order to be a funeral director, it is necessary to possess a caring nature and empathize with the grieving. They should work unobtrusively behind the scenes and behave in a dignified manner. From arranging the flower displays, placement of casket and obtaining legal documents, burial permits and death certificates, they should oversee the preparation as well as the care of the remains of the people who have passed on.
Here are a few tips on how to become a funeral director.
1. The first step is to take up a mortuary science program
The applicant should be at least 21 years old and have completed 2 years of formal education. They should pass an examination and serve 1 year as an apprentice. 50 mortuary programs are accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education. This program is from 2 to 4 years after which you have to pass an exam in order to acquire the degree.
During this time you will have to study subjects such as physiology and anatomy. You will have to learn bookkeeping procedures and finance. The subjects include pathology, restorative art, embalming techniques and business management. The student has to learn how to use computers and be proficient in accounting. Other courses include courses in legal, regulatory subjects and ethical sciences.
2. Licensing requirement by the state
It is essential to possess a valid license as per the state’s requirements. This is granted once the exams are passed successfully. It may be necessary to complete education in some other fields.
3. Take up an apprentice job
According to state regulations, the apprentice period should be 1 to 3 years. This can be completed before they join mortuary school, during or after they finish school. This is important as you can get experience when you work with a professional who knows the ropes. You will learn how to go about the preparations and the legalities involved which will stand you in good stead when you become a funeral director.
4. Take up a job as a funeral service operative
Training and experience is very important. It is therefore advisable to start out as a funeral service operative and gain knowledge of different aspects that are involved. This will give you on-the-job training. Once you have gained some experience try to work as an assistant to a funeral director or learn embalming. You can slowly work your up once you learn the various operations required to be a good funeral director.
5. Dealing with bereaved members of the deceased
A funeral director should be capable of handling emotional requests and empathize with the bereaved. A family member may be grieving and unable to give clear-cut instructions. The director should take up the logistic challenges and construct a beautiful memorial service keeping in mind the wishes of the deceased as explained by the family members. A funeral director should be able to show compassion and empathize. They should be composed and develop good communication skills. They should know how to deal with grieving people. A funeral director should dress appropriately and always wear suits and ties. Women directors should wear dresses.
For more information on this profession write to
The National Funeral Directors Association
13625 Bishop Dr., Brookfield W1 53005
I’ve been thinking about becoming a funeral director. I really liked these tips, especially the one about taking up an apprentice job first in order to get experience with a professional. This has helped a lot so thanks for sharing this with me.