Funeral Service

Location(s): Distance Learning Option

Funeral Service is a certificate program. This program is delivered in co-operation with the Funeral and Cremation Services Council of Saskatchewan.

You will study a core component of courses followed by a specialty of embalming or funeral directing, or both. If you are a compassionate person interested in helping people, this program can help you develop the skills you need to support individuals who are coping with death and provide essential services involved in the care of final arrangements for a loved one.

Note
International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this program.

The program is delivered by home study and work experience/practicum placements. The home study, involving print correspondence and online courses, allows you to remain in your home community to do your course work; you are not required to move to take this program.

Work experience/practicum placements will take place at rural and urban centres. Your placement may be in a location outside of your home community; therefore, you may incur extra expenses.

All students in the Funeral Service program (full-time and part-time) must also register as students with the Funeral and Cremation Services Council of Saskatchewan (FCSCS). The FCSCS student application form and fee information can be printed from the FCSCS website.

Core Program

The core program provides a blend of general academic courses with funeral industry specific courses. You will develop skills and gain knowledge in areas such as:

anatomy and physiology

computer skills

communication skills

jurisprudence and ethics

acts, bylaws and regulations specific to the funeral industry

The significant healing function that the funeral service provides for the living will be emphasized. Behavioural science courses in psychology, sociology and the psychology of grief will help you develop skills in helping people in a compassionate and respectful manner. Courses such as microbiology, anatomy and physiology will assist you with science essentials.

In addition to the theoretical courses delivered by distance learning, you will participate in an orientation to funeral service workshop and practicum placements in co-operating funeral homes where you will receive hands-on experience integrating core concepts into practice and developing skills and knowledge essential in maintaining integrity in practice.

Upon successfully completing the core courses, you will have the opportunity to complete the Embalmer Specialty as part of the Funeral Service certificate or the Funeral Director Specialty. You may choose to complete both specialties and receive a Funeral Service certificate for each of the specialties. If you decide to complete both specialties, you will be scheduled to take the Embalmer Specialty before you are scheduled to take the Funeral Director Specialty.

Funeral Director Specialty

You will learn how to coordinate and arrange all aspects of funeral services. Your studies will focus on family systems and bookkeeping basics. This specialty ends with an eight-week practicum essential for integrating core concepts with practice.

Embalmer Specialty

Your studies will focus on pathophysiology, embalming and restorative arts. You will learn how to prepare human remains for funerals and burial. This specialty offers the course work together with the practical component in a 16 week practicum essential for integrating core concepts with practice.

Click here to learn more about the Funeral Director and Embalmer professions, from people who are providing death care services in Saskatchewan.

Graduation from the program qualifies you to engage in an internship program. Upon successfully completing the internship program, you will write licensing examinations. This license will qualify you to practice in Saskatchewan as a funeral director and/or embalmer.

Length: Core - 26 weeks

Embalmer Specialty - 16 weeks
Funeral Director Specialty - 16 weeks

Career Opportunities

Funeral directors and embalmers are employed by funeral homes. Graduates are prepared for an internship position at a funeral home.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

embalmer
funeral director

Program Details

Start Date(s): September, March

Core Courses - September
Embalmer Specialty - March
Funeral Director Specialty - September and March

Apply Now

Admission Requirements

Effective for the 2012 full-time intake: Grade 12 with a minimum of 60% in each of English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30 and Biology 30 (Individuals who apply to the part-time program prior to July 1, 2011, must meet the admission requirements in effect until that date: Grade 12 with a minimum overall average of 60% in English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30, Biology 30, Mathematics A30, and one of Social Studies 30, History 30 or Native Studies 30)

English Language Requirement

Note

Accepted applicants may be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check. The cost of the Criminal Record Check is your responsibility.

Employers and/or supervisors of students on practicum may require a valid driver's license.

CPR 'A' and Standard First Aid may be required for practicum placements.

Current immunization according to the Canadian immunization guidelines is recommended.

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER^© cut scores and Post Secondary Success Requirements for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER ^©

ACCUPLACER^© Cut Scores
for this program

75	Arithmetic
80	Reading
80	Sentence
4	WritePlacer

Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies plus Biology 30

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.

Classroom

Clinical/Practicum

Home Study

Online

Televised/SCN

You will need Internet access for one course and email access to learning resources for several courses.
Your studies may be supplemented by workshops at Kelsey Campus.
The program is also offered part-time via distance learning.

Work-based Training

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Fact Sheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit

Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.

Core
expand/contract all

APHY 189 Anatomy and Physiology

The course introduces you to the study of the human body and how it functions efficiently. The content you will study is of critical importance for the promotion and maintenance of health.

3.0 Credit Units
40.0 Lecture hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time

Equivalent Course(s): APHY 188 APHY 282 NURS 111

COAP 171 Desktop Publishing

Your studies will introduce you to basic skills in the use of desktop publishing software for designing, editing and delivering different documents. You will learn the fundamentals of design for simple desktop publishing.

1.0 Credit Units
15.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

COM_ 101 Written and Oral Communications

You will receive instruction and practice in written and oral communication skills needed for the professional workplace. You will review the principles of effective writing, prepare oral presentations, and practice common forms of business communication. Communicating a professional image will be emphasized.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 120 COMM 292

COMM 291 Interpersonal Communications

You will develop employability skills through the study of interpersonal communications theory and applications in the workplace. Learning outcomes include the importance of self-awareness and self-esteem, perception problems, verbal and nonverbal messages, listening skills, creating positive communication climates and resolving interpersonal conflict.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Lecture hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

Equivalent Course(s): COMM 112 COMM 135 COMM 155 COMM 160 HUMR 182 JOBS 190 NEPS 114 NURS 114

COMP 172 Introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel

Your studies will introduce you to the purpose and uses of a word processor and electronic spreadsheet. You will develop the basic skills of creating, editing and formatting documents and spreadsheets.

1.0 Credit Units
15.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

Equivalent Course(s): COAP 120 COAP 172 COAP 381 COMP 120

COMP 179 Introduction to PowerPoint

You will receive instruction and practice in creating, modifying and delivering a presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint. You will enhance the presentation by adding charts, tables, visual elements, multimedia, transition effects and animations. You will study how to present, distribute and customize presentations.

1.0 Credit Units
15.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

Equivalent Course(s): COAP 138 COMP 173

ETHC 184 Jurisprudence and Ethics

You will gain an understanding of the acts, bylaws and regulations that govern funerals. The course will also include information about the professional and ethical practices that are important in this profession.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

Prerequisites:
ORTN 199 Minimum Grade of 60

MICR 185 Microbiology for Funeral Services

You will be introduced to the concepts of microbiology in relation to health and the process of disease in humans. You will explore the fundamentals of microorganisms in relation to the interaction with host, impact on environment, human disease and funeral service practice.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

Equivalent Course(s): NEPS 212

Prerequisites:
APHY 189 Minimum Grade of 60

MTER 180 Medical Terminology

You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes and combining forms from which medical terms are derived. You will also learn to use medical abbreviations.

1.0 Credit Units
10.0 Lecture hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

Equivalent Course(s): MED 161

ORTN 199 Orientation to Funeral Service

You will receive an orientation to the funeral services profession. Topics will include the history, varying traditions and religious practices that influence arrangements. You will also gain an understanding of the nature of employment within the funeral services profession.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

PRAC 176 Core Practicum

You will spend two weeks in an approved funeral home and participate in assigned duties (such as the transfer of body/remains, case analysis of body/remains, nonembalming preparations and other duties) under the direct supervision of a licensed embalmer and/or funeral director. You will be expected to demonstrate professionalism at all times.

4.0 Credit Units
60.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Prior Learning, Clinical/Practicum-Individual

Prerequisites:
COAP 171 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 291 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMP 172 Minimum Grade of 60 and ETHC 184 Minimum Grade of 60 and MICR 185 Minimum Grade of 60 and MTER 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and PSYC 280 Minimum Grade of 60 and WORK 192 Minimum Grade of CO

PSYC 160 Psychology 1

The course provides an introduction to the study of psychology as a science. You will explore the study of human behaviour by examining concepts such as perception, learning, memory, intelligence, motivation, emotion, states of consciousness, personality, health and stress.

2.0 Credit Units
34.0 Lecture hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time

PSYC 280 Psychology of Grief

You will discuss the emotional and psychological needs of the bereaved as well as appropriate communication skills and attitudes. You will be introduced to communication with and attitudes appropriate to grieving clients.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

Prerequisites:
PSYC 160 Minimum Grade of 60

PSYC 281 Interpersonal Skills in Funeral Service

You will learn to distinguish between “normal” and “complicated” grief and respond appropriately to both. Your skill in offering compassionate support to grieving clients will be enhanced through focused practice. Your proficiency in applying the most appropriate techniques to help individuals and families through difficult times will be improved through directed practice.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

Prerequisites:
PSYC 280 Minimum Grade of 60

WORK 192 Core Work Experience

You will spend one week in an approved funeral home in your community observing practices in providing care of body/remains, funeral arrangements and services. You will participate in related duties as assigned by your supervisor and will be expected to demonstrate professionalism at all times.

0.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual, Work Experience - Group

Funeral Director Specialty

FNRL 181 Arrange Funerals

You will gain an understanding of the processes involved in funeral services arrangements. You will also study memorialization options, processes for transportation and prearranging services.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

Prerequisites:
APHY 189 Minimum Grade of 60 and COAP 171 Minimum Grade of 60 and COM 101 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 291 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMP 172 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMP 179 Minimum Grade of 60 and ETHC 184 Minimum Grade of 60 and MICR 185 Minimum Grade of 60 and MTER 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and ORTN 199 Minimum Grade of 60 and PRAC 176 Minimum Grade of P and PSYC 160 Minimum Grade of 60 and PSYC 280 Minimum Grade of 60 and PSYC 281 Minimum Grade of 60 and WORK 192 Minimum Grade of CO

FNRL 281 Direct Funerals

You will examine the organization and direction of funeral services and visitations. You will also explore the various support services available.

2.0 Credit Units
30.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

Prerequisites:
FNRL 181 Minimum Grade of 60

FNRL 282 Business Practices and Processes in the Funeral Service
Industry

You will study business practices pertinent to the funeral service industry. Particular consideration will be paid to funeral home budgets and financial statements, funeral service merchandising and sales, costing and pricing, advertising, and applicable federal and provincial regulations.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

PRAC 278 Funeral Director Practicum

You will spend eight weeks in an approved funeral home and participate in funeral arrangements and directing funeral services under the direct supervision of a licensed funeral director. You will model professional attitudes and practices in all aspects of your assigned duties.

16.0 Credit Units
240.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual

Prerequisites:
FNRL 181 Minimum Grade of 60 and FNRL 281 Minimum Grade of 60 and FNRL 282 Minimum Grade of 60 and YCW 282 Minimum Grade of 60

YCW_ 282 Family Systems

You will examine patterns of marriage and family in Canadian society. You will explore the issues and challenges facing families and develop strategies to improve family function.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

Embalmer Specialty

FNRL 180 Restorative Art

You will study restorative art processes using appropriate cosmetics, instruments and appliances. You will also examine processes for the difficult and autopsied cases.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

FNRL 280 Embalming

You will gain an understanding of the various types of embalming processes for the normal case. You will also examine procedures used in difficult and autopsied cases.

5.0 Credit Units
75.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

PATH 186 Pathophysiology

The course content provides you with an introduction to the study of various disease processes that can affect body structure and function. You will also examine disease processes as they affect specific body systems.

3.0 Credit Units
45.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Correspondence-Structured Time

PRAC 277 Embalming Practicum

You will spend eight weeks in an approved funeral home and participate in all aspects of the embalming process under the direct supervision of a licensed embalmer. You will also participate in restorative art procedures. You will be expected to submit case studies of all embalming and restorative art procedures to your supervisor. You will model professional attitudes and practices in all aspects of your assigned duties.

16.0 Credit Units
240.0 Other hours

Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual

More Information

Ask A Question
Phone 1-866-goSIAST