COURSE CODE: 8354

Introduction to Mortuary Science

SCED Code: 14299
Suggested Grade Level: 11, 12
Duration: 36 Weeks
Hours: 140
Credits: 1
Prerequisite: None
OSHA Compliance Required?: Yes
CTSO: HOSA-Future Health Professionals
Non-Traditional?: F

Introduction to Mortuary Science explores the profession of mortuary science as it relates to embalmers, funeral attendants, funeral directors, and morticians. The content includes, but is not limited to, techniques of embalming and restorative art, mortuary administration, funeral law, public health, and sanitation. Students will be guided through simulated labs regarding the administrative and technological field of mortuary science. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Class Size Regulation

The Virginia Administrative Code regulates the class size for this course. For additional information, see 8VAC20-120-150, "Maximum class size," or contact the Virginia Department of Education Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education at cte@doe.virginia.gov.

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Course Sequences

A combination of this course and those below, equivalent to two 36-week courses, is a concentration sequence. Students wishing to complete a specialization may take additional courses based on their career pathways. A program completer is a student who has met the requirements for a CTE concentration sequence and all other requirements for high school graduation or an approved alternative education program.

Career Clusters

Pathway Occupation
Support Services
  • Mortician

Pathway Occupation
Personal Care Services
  • Embalmer
  • Funeral Attendant
  • Funeral Director
  • Funeral Service Manager
  • Mortician

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