A mortuary technician is a person who assists in the preparation of dead bodies for funerals, burial, or cremation. A person with this job may also assist with autopsies in some places. A high school diploma and a degree or certificate in mortuary sciences or funeral services are usually required for this position. You’ll also require training, which you can usually obtain through an internship or apprenticeship. Licensing or certification is also required by some jurisdictions or employers.
If you want to work as a mortuary technician, you’ll need a high school diploma. Many employers prefer candidates with high school diplomas, but they will usually accept GED® diplomas as well. Obtaining a high school diploma, on the other hand, may provide you with more than just a diploma. It can also provide you with a scientific background that you can apply in your career. Courses that help you develop communication skills may also be beneficial as you pursue a career as a mortuary technician.
Employer-specific requirements for higher education are common. Many, on the other hand, will demand that you have at least a bachelor’s degree in mortuary sciences, funeral services, or a related field. Some employers, for example, will require that you have at least an associate’s degree to be considered for this position. Though many positions do not require a bachelor’s degree, obtaining one may pave the way for career advancement in this field. Furthermore, you may discover that a bachelor’s degree is required in some jurisdictions.
When you want to be a mortuary technician, you’ll almost always need training, and there are a few options for getting that training. One of them is to take part in an internship, where you can get hands-on experience performing the types of tasks you’ll be responsible for once you’ve graduated and become a mortuary technician. You might also be able to get training through an apprenticeship.
To work as a mortuary technician in some states, you must first obtain certification or licensing. In this case, you must meet the certifying body’s educational requirements, which usually include some form of higher education. You will almost always need some work experience, such as participation in an internship or apprenticeship program. After you’ve completed the educational and training requirements, you’ll need to take a test to become certified. Even if certification isn’t required by all employers or in all jurisdictions, it can lead to more job opportunities.