The primary mission of the mortuary science program is to provide the student with a broad-based education, which prepares the student for a successful career in funeral service or whatever field the student chooses. The secondary mission is to sufficiently prepare the student to sit for the National Board Exam given by the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards. This exam is required for licensure in most states. www.abfse.org

Students demonstrate desirable, ethical attitudes and work habits: verbal/written communication skills, creative thinking, problem solving, good judgment, self-reliance, team cooperation, acceptance of change, commitment to life-long learning, support of diversity and technology usage. Secure an entry level position in a funeral home or continue educations to earn a Bachelor degree in funeral service management. Desirable attitudes and work habits: verbal/written communication skills, creative thinking, problem solving, good judgment, self-reliance, team cooperation, accepting of change, committing to life-long learning, support of diversity. Demonstrate proper technique to service the living in funeral arrangements, calling hours, counseling, and other areas of funeral service Demonstrate proper technique in the safe preparation of human remains, including universal precautions, handling communicable diseases, embalming both autopsied and unautopsied remains. Communicate with the clergy of various faiths to present a dignified funeral experience for the bereaved. Interact with other professionals and the general public in a manner which benefits both funeral service and the public as a whole. 

As a requirement of graduation from the Mortuary Science Associate degree, students must take the National Board Exam. The Briarwood College student pass rate for the last two measured-calendar years for first-time test takers of the National Board Exam is as follows:

2007 – 59%
2006 – 59%
 

Faculty

Paul Warren, AAS in Mortuary Science, BS, MA, Ph.D.,LEFD. e-mail: warrenp@briarwood.edu

Dave Romani, AAS in Mortuary Science, BA, MS, LEFD

James Casso, AAS in Mortuary Science, BS, LEFD

Reverend Michael Devito, AAS in Mortuary Science, BA, MA, LEFD, M.Div

Tom Pacyna, BS, MS, LEFD

 Advisory Board

Christine De Carlo, Manager

David Della Vecchia, Manager

Leonard Holtz, Executive Director

Patricia McCarthy, OwnerCharles Roderick, VP, GM

Edgar Rodriguez, Owner

Paul Shaker, Owner

James O’Boyle, Owner .

Accreditation

Briarwood College's Associate of Applied Science Degree in Mortuary Science is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE) 3432 Ashland Avenue, Suite U, St. Joseph, Missouri 64506, (816) 233-3747. www.abfse.org.