The primary mission of the mortuary science program is to provide the student with a broad-based education, which prepares the student for a successful career in funeral service or whatever field the student chooses. The secondary mission is to sufficiently prepare the student to sit for the National Board Exam given by the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards. This exam is required for licensure in most states. www.abfse.org

Students demonstrate desirable, ethical attitudes and work habits, good verbal/written communication skills, creative thinking, problem solving, good judgment, self-reliance, team cooperation, acceptance of change, commitment to life-long learning, support of diversity and technology usage. Secure an entry level position in a funeral home or continue educations to earn a Bachelor degree in funeral service management. Desirable attitudes and work habits: verbal/written communication skills, creative thinking, problem solving, good judgment, self-reliance, team cooperation, accepting of change, committing to life-long learning, support of diversity. Demonstrate proper technique to service the living in funeral arrangements, calling hours, counseling, and other areas of funeral service Demonstrate proper technique in the safe preparation of human remains, including universal precautions, handling communicable diseases, embalming both autopsied and unautopsied remains. Communicate with the clergy of various faiths to present a dignified funeral experience for the bereaved. Interact with other professionals and the general public in a manner which benefits both funeral service and the public as a whole. 

As a requirement of graduation from the Mortuary Science Associate degree, students must take the National Board Exam. The Briarwood College student pass rate for the last three measured-calendar years for first-time test takers of the National Board Exam is as follows:

YEAR       No. of test takers          No. passed both sections     % passed

2005            31                              19                            61%

2006            22                              13                            59%

2007            17                              10                            59%

The annual passage rate of first-time takers on the National Board Examination (NBE) for the most recent three-year period for this institution and all ABFSE accredited funeral service education programs is posted on the ABFSE web site (www.abfse.org) 

Faculty