The Mortuary Science Degree offered at Mortuary Online Institute (MOI) is an Associate's degree program in Occupational Studies, specifically designed to meet the requirements of today's funeral service profession.
Since its inception in 1977, the program has maintained full accreditation from the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE). Students receive an in-depth education that combines general studies with specialized coursework, supplemented by expert guest lecturers from across the industry.
Flexible options allow students to choose between online and traditional campus learning, with convenient access to our New York City campus. All applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and meet all licensure criteria required by their state.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must present proof of high school graduation, a GED, or an equivalent qualification. Alternatively, a post-secondary transcript showing at least nine non-developmental credits with a minimum GPA of 2.0 from a regionally accredited institution also qualifies for admission.
Legal and educational eligibility criteria relevant to your intended state of practice must also be satisfied.
Advanced Standing
Students who hold 60 or more academic credits, an Associate's degree, or a Bachelor's degree are eligible for advanced standing, exempting them from general education courses. Completion of Professional Ethics and History of Funeral Service courses remains mandatory regardless of standing. Program duration varies based on transfer credits and enrollment status.
Curriculum Overview
MOI's curriculum combines business, science, ethics, and hands-on training to prepare students for funeral service careers. Courses cover directing, embalming, counseling, and law — with in-person lab work ensuring practical skill development even for online students.
Campus & Online Programs
MOI offers two flexible pathways to earning your Mortuary Science degree. Both include the same rigorous curriculum and lead to the same accredited degree.
Campus Program
In-person learning at our New York City location
- Traditional classroom experience
- Direct access to faculty and peers
- In-person lab and clinical work
- Located at 1501 Broadway, NYC
- Full-time and part-time schedules available
Online Program
Flexible coursework from anywhere in the U.S.
- 100% online academic coursework
- Study on your own schedule
- In-person clinical requirements apply
- Available to U.S. students (domestic only)
- Same accredited degree as campus students
Transfer Credit Policies
Transfer credits from accredited institutions may be awarded for general education courses completed with a grade of C or higher.
Accepted Transfer Credit Sources
- General education courses from accredited colleges (grade of C or higher) — including Communication Skills, Death and Human Development, Introduction to Science, and Principles of Mathematics
- Challenge Exams completed within four years with a grade of B or higher, or a score above 80 on MOI's assessment
- CLEP and DSST examinations — CLEP testing costs are waived for military personnel and eligible civilians
- Veterans may be eligible for VA reimbursement for CLEP tests; official score reports are required
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of MOI's accredited program are prepared to enter the funeral service profession with confidence, compassion, and professional competence.
- Effectively communicate with grieving families and the broader community
- Understand and uphold ethical practices in funeral service
- Comply with funeral service regulations and legal requirements
- Maintain public health standards in the handling of human remains
- Demonstrate proficiency in embalming and restorative art
- Conduct arrangement conferences and manage funeral operations
- Apply communication and research skills foundational to professional practice
Careers in Funeral Service
Graduates of the MOI Mortuary Science Degree program go on to meaningful, stable careers serving their communities. Common career paths include:
Funeral Director
Embalmer
Grief Counselor
Crematory Operator
Funeral Home Manager
Cemetery Administrator
Each role offers meaningful opportunities to serve communities compassionately and professionally, with stable employment in a respected and always-needed field.
Learn About Careers in Funeral ServiceApply to the Mortuary Science Degree Program Today
Launch your career in funeral service and help make a difference in the lives of others. Take the first step toward greater professional fulfillment.