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Degree Programs in Funeral Service

Point Park University in cooperation with the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science offers three programs in Specialized Professional Studies–Funeral Service: a Bachelor of Science degree requiring three years of study at Point Park and one year of study at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science, and two capstone programs requiring one year of study at Point Park.

Bachelor of Science Degree

This program is intended for students who have not previously earned a degree. An Associate in Science degree in Specialized Professional Studies–Funeral Services is granted upon completion of the first two years of study at Point Park; a Bachelor of Science degree is granted upon completion of a year of mortuary science courses and an additional year of study at Point Park.

The Associate in Science degree is intended to provide the academic preparation required by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for admission to a 12-month course of study in mortuary school. Application for acceptance into any approved school of mortuary science is the responsibility of the student.

A "Founders’ Scholarship" is awarded each year in honor of the three individuals who established the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science in 1939; it is available to a qualifying member of the Point Park University graduating class in the Associate in Science degree program. The $500 scholarship is applicable to the two terms of study at the Institute of Mortuary Science. This award, granted by the Institute, is based on scholarly achievement as well as participation in university and community activities.

Capstone Bachelor of Science Degree

This program intended for students who already hold the Associate in Specialized Business degree (96 credits) from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. The coursework includes two available concentrations, one in Environmental Health and one in Business Administration. Students are requested to meet with their academic advisor to select the concentration that better meets their needs.

Students from mortuary schools other than the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science may enter the program but their previous studies will be evaluated on an individual basis; the number of transferable credits cannot exceed 90 and may be considerably fewer than 90. The completion of additional course work at Point Park University as designated by the department will be required in such instances.

Capstone Bachelor of Arts Degree

This program is available to students who have completed the Associate in Specialized Technology degree (96 credits) from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. The program consists of 12 credits of department core requirements and 18 credits to be selected from four possible concentrations. Students are requested to meet with their academic advisor to select the concentration that best meets their needs.

Credits transferred to the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science from other institutions will be considered for transfer to Point Park on a case-by-case basis. The completion of additional course work at Point Park University as designated by the department will be required when fewer than 96 credits are transferable.

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