Funeral Service Education

PROGRAM MISSION

The Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Service Education at West Georgia Technical College prepares students to serve their communities with professionalism, compassion, and technical expertise. Grounded in the College’s mission to support student success and economic development through relevant education and training, this program equips future funeral service professionals with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to meet industry standards and community needs.

Students will be trained in key areas such as mortuary science, restorative art, funeral home operations, bereavement care, legal compliance, and ethical service delivery. Emphasis is placed on business management, regulatory practices, and the interpersonal skills necessary to support families with dignity during times of loss.

This program is designed to foster excellence and innovation in the funeral service profession and to cultivate graduates who are career-ready and committed to upholding the highest standards of care. Successful completion of the National Board Examination is required for graduation, reinforcing our commitment to producing a highly skilled, licensed workforce that contributes meaningfully to Georgia’s economy and well-being.

Funeral Service Education Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

1. Articulate the role of funeral service professionals in building meaningful relationships with families and the communities they serve. 
2. Apply standards of ethical and professional conduct in all aspects of funeral service practice. 
3. Interpret and adhere to federal, state, and local regulations governing funeral service to ensure legal compliance. 
4. Implement public health and safety protocols in the handling, preparation, and care of human remains. 
5. Exhibit technical proficiency in embalming and restorative art, demonstrating the skills necessary for     proper preparation of human remains. 
6. Facilitate all aspects of funeral service operations, including arrangement conferences, visitations, services, and ceremonies. 
7. Describe and comply with procedures for final disposition, including burial, cremation, and alternative     methods in accordance with accepted practices. 
8. Support the bereaved by recognizing and addressing grief-related needs with sensitivity and compassion. 
9. Demonstrate foundational management and leadership skills relevant to the operation of a funeral     service business. 
10. Communicate effectively in both written and verbal forms, incorporating research and documentation appropriate to funeral service practice.

Important Accreditation Statement: 

The Funeral Service Education associate degree program at West Georgia Technical College is in the process of seeking accreditation by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE). However, the program is NOT currently accredited by ABFSE and students enrolled at this time are not eligible to sit for the National Board Examination until such accreditation is achieved.