Key Takeaways
- All programs listed are accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE), the gold standard for mortuary science education.
- Most online mortuary science programs follow a hybrid format combining online theory with in-person clinical requirements.
- Typical completion time is 16 to 24 months for an Associate degree.
- Graduates qualify to pursue state licensure as funeral directors or embalmers.
- Job demand remains stable, with a median annual wage of $58,310 for funeral service workers according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What Makes a Top Online Mortuary Science Program?
To identify the top accredited online mortuary science programs for flexible career training, we evaluated schools using five objective criteria:
- ABFSE Accreditation Status
- Online Flexibility and Hybrid Requirements
- Tuition Value and Financial Aid Availability
- Graduation and Board Exam Pass Rates
- Career Placement Support and Alumni Outcomes
ABFSE accreditation is essential. Most states require graduation from an ABFSE-approved program before licensure. You can verify status directly via the official program directory.
The 10 Best Accredited Online Mortuary Science Programs
1. Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science
Degree: Associate of Applied Science
Format: Online with short on-campus labs
Why It Ranks: One of the oldest mortuary schools in the U.S., strong board exam pass rates.
This program combines flexible online coursework with intensive clinical labs on campus. Known for rigorous embalming and restorative art training, it consistently posts strong outcomes.
2. Dallas Institute of Funeral Service
Degree: Associate of Applied Science
Format: Hybrid
Why It Ranks: High enrollment with nationwide recognition.
Part of Pierce Mortuary Colleges, the Dallas Institute offers structured online classes with practical lab intensives. Financial aid is widely available.
3. American Academy McAllister Institute (AAMI)
Degree: Associate Degree
Format: Hybrid and online options
Why It Ranks: Offers pathway to bachelor-level advancement.
Located in New York, AAMI provides strong academic transfer opportunities and advanced funeral service management education.
4. Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service
Degree: Associate of Science
Format: Online with campus labs
Why It Ranks: Flexible online design for working professionals.
This Georgia-based college offers accessible online lectures while maintaining high embalming lab standards.
5. Mid-America College of Funeral Service
Degree: Associate of Applied Science
Format: Online with clinical requirements
Why It Ranks: Known for affordability and small class support.
This Kentucky institution provides personalized faculty mentorship and strong national board preparation.
6. Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service
Degree: Associate of Applied Science
Format: Blended
Why It Ranks: Accelerated completion option.
Students can complete academic components online while attending intensive lab sessions in Texas.
7. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
Degree: Associate in Applied Science
Format: Primarily online
Why It Ranks: Affordable public college tuition.
As a public institution, DMACC offers competitive tuition for residents and strong board prep outcomes.
8. Arapahoe Community College
Degree: Associate of Applied Science
Format: Hybrid
Why It Ranks: Strong student support services.
Colorado-based with online flexibility, this school emphasizes small cohorts and interactive instruction.
9. John A. Gupton College
Degree: Associate of Occupational Studies
Format: Hybrid
Why It Ranks: Longstanding reputation in funeral service education.
This Tennessee institution offers an accessible pathway with online coursework and structured lab immersion.
10. Madisonville Community College
Degree: Associate in Applied Science
Format: Online with in-person practicums
Why It Ranks: Strong workforce integration partnerships.
The program supports apprenticeship placements across Kentucky and neighboring states.
Program Comparison Overview
SchoolDelivery FormatApprox. LengthPublic/PrivateCincinnati CollegeHybrid16-24 MonthsPrivateDallas InstituteHybrid18-24 MonthsPrivateDMACCPrimarily Online24 MonthsPublicArapahoe CCHybrid24 MonthsPublic
Admission Requirements
While requirements vary slightly, most ABFSE-accredited programs require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 to 2.5
- Completion of prerequisite science courses
- Background check and immunization records
Some states require students to register as apprentices before beginning licensure hours. Licensing rules can be verified through the National Funeral Directors Association.
Licensing and Career Pathways
Graduates must pass the National Board Examination administered by the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards.
Many states offer reciprocity agreements, allowing licensed professionals to transfer credentials across state lines, though requirements vary.
Career Options Include:
- Licensed Funeral Director
- Embalmer
- Crematory Operator
- Funeral Service Manager
- Restorative Art Specialist
Tuition and Financial Aid
Average tuition ranges from $8,000 to $25,000 depending on residency and institution type. Public colleges typically offer lower in-state rates.
Students can apply for:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
- State workforce development grants
- Industry scholarships via NFDA
Complete the FAFSA application to determine eligibility.
Why Online Mortuary Science Is Increasingly Popular
Online funeral service education grew significantly over the past five years due to adult learners seeking career shifts and working professionals needing flexibility.
Hybrid delivery allows students to:
- Maintain full-time employment
- Complete theory courses remotely
- Schedule laboratory intensives in blocks
- Reduce relocation costs
Despite online convenience, embalming lab requirements remain in-person to meet regulatory standards.
How to Choose the Right Program
Before enrolling, evaluate:
- State licensure alignment
- Board exam pass rates
- On-campus lab frequency
- Total program cost including travel
- Graduation and placement statistics
Contact admissions departments directly and confirm ABFSE approval status. Ensure the curriculum aligns with your state funeral board requirements for seamless licensure qualification.
Careful selection of an accredited online mortuary science program ensures you receive credible, flexible job training while positioning yourself for stable, meaningful work in funeral service.
Frequently Asked Questions about Online Mortuary Science Programs
Are online mortuary science programs respected by employers?
Yes. If you graduate from an online program that is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE), employers and state boards treat it the same as an on-campus program. You can confirm accreditation through the official ABFSE program directory.
How long does it take to finish an online mortuary science degree?
Most online Associate-level mortuary science programs take about 16 to 24 months of full-time study. Some schools offer part-time or accelerated tracks, which can change your total completion time.
Can you complete mortuary science fully online without going to campus?
No. Even the most flexible programs use a hybrid model. Lecture and theory courses are online, but you still need in-person labs and clinical or practicum hours to meet ABFSE standards and state licensing rules.
What jobs can you get after an online mortuary science program?
After you complete an ABFSE-accredited program and pass the National Board Examination from the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards, you may qualify to work as a funeral director, embalmer, crematory operator, or funeral service manager, depending on your state’s license structure.
How much do funeral service workers usually earn?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, funeral service workers have a median annual wage of about $58,310. Your pay can vary by state, role, experience, and whether you are on call or salaried.
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