Frequently Asked Questions about Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science Careers

The mission of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science is to provide a comprehensive education to students in the funeral service profession. This includes a strong foundation in technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and ethical standards. Our goal is to prepare students to become compassionate, competent, and professional funeral service practitioners who are able to serve their communities with dignity and respect. Additionally, we strive to promote the advancement and understanding of funeral service through research and community outreach.

The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science offers programs in Funeral Service Arts and Sciences, Embalming, and Funeral Directing. The institute also offers a certificate program in Cremation Services, as well as continuing education courses for licensed funeral directors and embalmers. The programs at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science are designed to prepare students for a successful career in the funeral service industry.

The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science offers a comprehensive Associate in Specialized Technology degree in Funeral Service Arts and Sciences. This program prepares students for a career in funeral service by providing education in areas such as embalming, restorative art, funeral directing, and grief counseling. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the National Board Examination and obtain state licensure as a funeral director and embalmer.

The program at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science typically lasts for 18 months, or three semesters. Students can choose to attend full-time or part-time, and the program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in a funeral home setting. Upon completion, graduates earn an Associate in Specialized Business degree in Funeral Service Arts and Sciences.

Yes, Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE), which is the national accrediting agency for funeral service and mortuary science programs. This accreditation ensures that the school meets high quality standards and prepares students for a successful career in the funeral service industry.

The admission requirements for Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science include a high school diploma or equivalent, completed application form, official transcripts, minimum GPA of 2.5, two letters of recommendation, personal essay, and an interview. Additionally, applicants must have completed prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and English. Some programs may require a passing score on the SAT or ACT exam.

Yes, there is a waiting list for admission to Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. Due to the high demand for this specialized program, the school may have a limited number of spots available each year. Students are encouraged to apply early to increase their chances of being accepted. The school also has strict requirements and a competitive application process, which may contribute to the waiting list.

Yes, Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science accepts transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the acceptance of transfer credits is subject to review and evaluation by the registrar's office. Students must submit official transcripts and course syllabi for review. Transfer credits must also meet specific requirements and be relevant to the program of study at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science.

The tuition cost for Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science varies depending on the program and semester. For the funeral service program, the cost is approximately $13,500 per semester for in-state students and $15,000 for out-of-state students. For the embalming program, the cost is approximately $12,500 per semester for in-state students and $14,000 for out-of-state students. Additional fees may apply for books, materials, and housing.

The job placement rate for graduates of Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science is high, with a reported placement rate of over 90%. This is due to the rigorous academic and practical training provided by the institute, as well as their strong network and connections within the funeral industry. Graduates are highly sought after for their knowledge, skills, and professionalism in the field of mortuary science.

Yes, Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science does offer a part-time program for students who may not be able to attend full-time. This program allows students to complete their education at a pace that fits their schedule. However, please note that part-time students may take longer to complete their degree compared to full-time students.

Yes, the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science offers an online program option for students who are unable to attend classes on campus. This program allows students to complete coursework and assignments remotely, while still receiving a high-quality education in mortuary science. Students in the online program are also required to complete an in-person clinical internship at an approved funeral home or mortuary.

The student-to-faculty ratio at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science is approximately 11:1. This means that for every 11 students enrolled, there is 1 faculty member available to provide personalized instruction and support. This low ratio allows for a more intimate learning experience and ensures that students receive individual attention from their instructors.

Yes, hands-on experience is included in the curriculum at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. The program includes a variety of lab courses and clinical experiences where students learn practical skills such as embalming, restorative art, and funeral service management. This hands-on approach allows students to gain real-world experience and prepares them for a career in the funeral service industry.

The average class size at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science varies depending on the program and semester. Generally, classes can range from 10-30 students, with some smaller specialized courses having fewer students. This smaller class size allows for a more personalized and hands-on learning experience for students studying to become funeral directors, embalmers, or crematory operators.

Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science offers a variety of resources for students including hands-on training in embalming and restorative arts, access to state-of-the-art funeral service equipment, a comprehensive library with textbooks and reference materials, and career services to assist with job placement after graduation. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in professional organizations and attend industry conferences for networking and continuing education.

Yes, there are several extracurricular activities and organizations related to mortuary science at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. Some examples include the Mortuary Science Student Association, which offers networking opportunities and educational events, and the Student Ambassador Program, which provides leadership and community service opportunities. There are also various student-run clubs and organizations focused on specific areas of mortuary science, such as embalming or funeral directing.

The average salary for graduates of Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science varies depending on the specific job title and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for funeral service managers is $78,040 as of May 2020. However, salaries can range from $43,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, location, and other factors.

Yes, Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science offers continuing education courses for licensed funeral directors and embalmers. These courses cover a variety of topics such as advanced embalming techniques, funeral service management, and legal and ethical issues in the funeral industry. These courses are designed to help professionals stay up-to-date with industry standards and regulations, and to enhance their skills and knowledge in their field.

Yes, there are several specialized areas of study within the mortuary science program at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. These include embalming, funeral directing, restorative art, cremation, and grief counseling. Students can also choose to focus on specific types of funerals, such as traditional, green, or military. Additionally, there are opportunities for students to specialize in working with specific populations, such as pediatric or geriatric cases.