Interested in mortuary school but don't know where to start? RESEARCH!
Well, you're probably asking, "What should I research?" Research the career itself. Does it fit your lifestyle? Research colleges. Do they offer a schedule that fits your life? Are they online or on-campus? Tuition? Certain requirements? Know your state requirements! Are they accredited by ABFSE? That's the most important one! Without accreditation the classes are useless.
I made the decision to apply for PIMS (Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science). They have online and on-campus options. So what was my experience?
- I completed an online application, then made an account for the school so I could continue my application and upload needed forms.
- I had to request my high school transcript and college transcripts to be sent to PIMS.
- I had to see my family doctor. The school, and most others, require an Admission Health Screening. I had to provide my vaccine history, get titers drawn to prove immunity, and I had to get a couple vaccinations and provide the proof. A negative TB skin test was required as well. These were sent via mail and were not accepted online.
- I had to send a photo ID (headshot) and a copy of my health insurance card.
- Don't forget! Submit your FAFSA.
The online portal kept me updated with what I was still missing or if my application was fully complete. The admissions team also kept in contact with me.
Roughly, three weeks later I received my acceptance letter! Once accepted, I received a call from my counselor to ensure I had everything I needed.
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How will I get my practicum and clinical complete? With being an online student, I am required to do my funeral service practicum and clinical embalming at a local funeral home. Normally a representative from PIMS would make a trip down to approve the funeral home. However, with COVID restrictions they are now doing virtual visits. This means I went in to the funeral home and had to video and show/discuss different elements and requirements. The funeral home owner/funeral director must also sign a contract to agree to PIMS terms.
Will I have to go to PIMS? Yes, twice. Once for my restorative arts lab and once for my on-campus embalming at the end of the program.
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