How many semester hours are required for a mortuary science program?

In Washington State, mortuary science programs are typically required to encompass a minimum of 60 semester hours. This aligns with the educational standards set by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE), which mandates that accredited programs provide comprehensive training and education in the field of funeral service. The 60 semester hours typically include coursework in subjects such as embalming, restorative art, funeral service management, and grief counseling, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the responsibilities of a licensed funeral service practitioner.

The requirement for 60 semester hours reflects the need for substantial academic preparation, which is essential for understanding the complexities of mortuary science and meeting state licensing requirements. Programs that fall short of this hour requirement may not adequately equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills for their future careers.