A funeral director oversees details regarding the memorial services for those who have passed away. In working closely with the deceased’s loved ones, the funeral director ensures that the service meets the needs and wishes of all who are closely involved. A successful funeral director is someone who has a natural empathy for those who are grieving, and is able to help see them through the difficult process. Perhaps you fit this description, and feel that you would make a great funeral director. Perhaps you’re wondering how to become a funeral director, particularly in Connecticut. Here in the U.S., specific training and certification is needed to get land a job in funeral services. It is not a simple process, but if you’re dedicated and driven, it can be worthwhile. Let’s break down the steps to fulfilling your dream career.

The first step toward becoming a funeral director is to get a great education. An associate degree in mortuary science, from an accredited school, is the standard requirement in the funeral services field. If you are looking to become a funeral director in Connecticut, Goodwin College has a comprehensive, associate degree program that can prepare you for an in-demand career in mortuary science and funeral services. You can make a difference of the lives of families at a time when they need it the most. Goodwin’s program will help become a well-rounded professional, who is able to address funeral service processes from the initial death call through to the final disposition of human remains.

The Funeral Service program at Goodwin College is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE) – this is required in Connecticut. In addition to completing a program at an ABFSE-accredited school, you must also meet the following criteria in order to become a funeral director:

• Be 21 years old
• Pass a state/national board exam
• Serve an internship or apprenticeship, typically for 1-3 years

Goodwin’s Funeral Service program prepares students to sit for the ABFSE National Board Exams.

In addition to your education, you will need to complete training, which typically lasts 1-3 years under the direction of a licensed funeral director or manager. At Goodwin College, students are set up with one-year paid apprenticeships. These are offered at funeral homes all over the state of Connecticut. With this valuable experience, you will gain hands-on experience in embalming, restorative art, and business management. Students of the funeral service program must complete 180 hours at their internship, participate in 10 embalming operations, as well as an additional 30 hours of on-campus coursework learning about business management.

Once you have completed your apprenticeship, you will be able to sit for your state board exam. Once you’ve passed the state board exam, you will be equipped for a variety of careers in funeral service, funeral director included! Some of your career options will include:

• At-need and pre-need consultants
• Embalmers
• Funeral service directors
• Funeral service practitioners
• Mortician
• Mortuary transporter

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of funeral service workers is expected to grow 5 percent over the next several years. Demand will rise with the aging population. Additionally, more and more baby boomers are pre-planning their funeral services. As a funeral director, you will be able to help those looking to plan their end-of-life services in a stress-free way, alleviating the burden for loved ones and ensuring that these final wishes be met successfully.

The Funeral Service Associate Degree program at Goodwin College can set you up for a lifetime of success in your career. In fact, we have a Career Services team and extensive network of employers who are here to provide you with career placement and counseling support — for free, forever.

Get your career started in the Funeral Services and Mortuary Science field, by visiting Goodwin College online or calling 800-889-3282!