TCC to offer first funeral directing degree in Virginia

Tidewater Community College introduces a new funeral directing degree this fall.

The 61-credit Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Directing prepares students to provide compassionate care for families and individuals after the loss of a loved one. The program also focuses on the business skills necessary to manage the daily operations of a funeral home.

The first and only funeral directing degree to be offered in Virginia, the program was developed by TCC after the General Assembly passed a bill to approve separate licenses for funeral director and embalmer.

“This program creates a path to licensure for people who don’t want to be in the preparation room,” said Frank Walton, TCC’s Funeral Services program head and owner of Walton Funeral Home.

“Students will gain insights into funeral home operations and management while learning to provide care for grieving families,” Walton added.

TCC’s funeral director program will be offered 100% online.

Courses include psychology of death and dying; introduction to business; principles of public speaking; business law; and principles of funeral management.

State licensure requires a 2000-hour externship at a local funeral home, giving students important hands-on training. Students will also prepare to take the state funeral laws exam and state board exam.

Upon graduation, students will be certified crematory operators and ready for work in funeral homes across Virginia.

TCC also offers an Associate of Applied Science in Funeral Services for students interested in obtaining licenses for both directing and embalming. The extensive curriculum covers everything from chemistry and restorative art to funeral service law. The program also gives students hands-on training in the embalming lab on the Virginia Beach Campus.

 Fall classes begin Aug. 23.

For more information on TCC’s programs and services, email info@tcc.edu or call the Virtual Student Support Team at 757-822-1111.