How To Become An Embalmer

Step 1: Study Sciences in High School

Taking science classes such as Biology, Anatomy, and Chemistry will help prepare students for college. Embalmers prepare the dead for viewings and funerals, and they need to meet with the families of the deceased. They need to understand the anatomy of the human body and chemistry so that they learn about the chemicals used in this field. In addition, preparing to take sociology and psychology courses can help students prepare for meeting with grieving families. Studying the sciences in high school will help students prepare for their college coursework.

Step 2: Earn an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor's Degree in Mortuary Science

The minimum requirement for becoming an Embalmer is an Associate’s Degree in Mortuary Science. However, many people choose to get a Bachelor’s Degree because it better prepares students for this career. The Associate’s Degree takes two years of full-time study, while the Bachelor’s Degree takes four years.

Students in Mortuary Science programs take courses such as anatomy, physiology, embalming techniques, ethics, funeral service law, pathology, and more. Students can also take business classes because they often end up owning and running their own businesses.

It is possible to take some of the courses online, but students are required to go to school in person for labs and some of the other classes.

On campus programs are great for students who prefer taking classes in person. Students get to collaborate with other students and learn from their instructors face to face. There is a more structured schedule for on-campus programs, and a lot of students prefer this.

Another option is a hybrid program that is partially online and partially on campus. This type of program works well for students who are working or have family that they need to balance with school.

Step 3: Serve as an Apprentice

No matter what state you live in, you must complete an apprenticeship before you can be licensed. The specific requirements of the apprenticeship are different in different states. In some states, you are able to complete this apprenticeship while you are in school, but in others you need to graduate first.

During the apprenticeship, you will have to embalm a specific number of bodies before you are eligible for a license. It is important to understand the requirements in your state so that you know what to do.

Step 4: Get Your License

Each state has its own rules about how people can get licensed to become an Embalmer. The required age of an Embalmer can vary from 18 to 21. In addition, Embalmers are required to have a certain amount of education before they can get licensed. It is also necessary to fill out the licensing application and send the required documentation to the licensing department.

Step 5: Apply for a Job

Once you have your license, the next step is to apply for a job. There will be funeral homes in any place that you want to live, and you should create your resume to make a good impression on the employers you want to work for. Make sure that your resume is designed to show off your accomplishments and skills.

Your resume is your first impression on your prospective employers, so it should show your experience, your skills, and your education. Make sure that your resume is neat and clean and use a standard font.

In addition to working for a funeral home, you can get a job working for a medical research facility. You can get a job working for any organization that needs to prepare dead bodies.

Step 6: Keep up with Coursework for License Renewal

Some states will require that students take continuing education courses to renew their licenses. You will want to make sure that the courses are approved by the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice. These courses can often be taken online, and it is not difficult to retain your license. If you want to take courses online, you need to make sure that your state allows it. Make sure that you know your state’s rules and regulations so that you can keep your license.