Frequently Asked Questions

 How long will it take to finish the mortuary science program?

 If you will be attending full time (15 semester hours), the mortuary science curriculum is structured for the student to complete the entire Associate degree program in two years. Students requiring significant remediation courses may take longer. The on-line certificate  (funeral director) can be completed in one year. This can be completed totally on-line, without the student ever attending the campus in Amarillo.
 

Can I complete the program faster at another institution?

Yes. The course requirements at Dallas Institute of  Funeral Service and Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service can be completed in a shorter time frame. Amarillo College offers classes in the traditional 16 week semester or 8 week semester during summer.
 

What degree will I receive after completion of the program?

The Associate of Applied Science degree is awarded to those completing all of the requirements of the Mortuary Science program. This degree is the minimum standard required to take the National Board Examination. The Funeral Director certificate is issued to those completing all of the requirements required to become a licensed funeral director in the State of Texas. Certificate students are allowed to sit for the Texas Board Exam Only.

How much does the program cost?

Tuition and fees for attending our program are quite reasonable. In fact, Amarillo College has one of the lowest tuition rates in the state of  Texas. Tuition and basic fees are based upon the number of credit hours you are enrolled in for the semester. Click here for current tuition and fees for Amarillo College.

When do I enter the program?

Typically, students entering the program as freshmen will begin studies in the fall semester. However, the program coordinator and student will meet in order to outline a curriculum plan that will encourage your studies to begin at any time during the school year. Amarillo College offers classes in the fall, spring and summer semesters.

Is it possible to commute to classes and even continue to work while attending?

Yes, the program is structured so the student typically attends classes two days a week. Depending on when you enter the program, you will attend classes on either Tuesday and Thursday or Monday and Wednesday. All of the required classes for the certificate are offered totally on-line.  Most of the classses required for the A.A.S. degree are offered on-line.

Can I attend your program if I only want to become a funeral director?

Yes. The program is set-up in order for the student to become a licensed funeral director or a funeral director and embalmer.

Can classes be taken over the internet?

Yes. All of the classes required for the  (funeral director) certificate can be completed on-line through Amarillo College. Most of the classes, except for Anatomy and Microbiology, can be taken on-line to complete the Associate of Applied Science degree (funeral director and embalmer). Many of the students enrolled in the certificate program are enrolled in the on-line courses.

What is the salary for a newly licensed funeral director/embalmer?

Typically, the starting salary will vary depending on the area in which you decide to work. Currently, the starting salary for a newly licensed funeral director/embalmer is $28,328-$35,475. As a general rule, the starting salary for a newly licensed director will reflect that of a teacher's starting salary within the same geographical region.

How long does it take to become a licensed funeral director/embalmer?

Once you have completed all of the educational and testing requirements, most states require some type of internship to be served before receiving your license. In Texas, for example, the internship (provisional period) is served for at least one year prior to or after graduation from an accredited program. States will differ on licensing requirements. It is recommended that you refer to the specific state licensing agency for more details.

Is finanacial aid available?

Yes. Amarillo College offers financial aid and scholarships to those students who qualify. Contact the financial aid office if you need further assistance with this. There are also several scholarships available through Amarillo College; as well as, funeral service industry scholarships and scholarships for minorities.