Funeral Arranging & Directing

This program is for funeral director apprentices in Atlantic Canada who are registered as funeral director apprentices with their respective Provincial Licensing Board of Registration of Embalmers and Funeral Directors. This certificate is only available to students apprenticing in provinces where funeral directors and embalmers are licensed separately.

You’ll study the theory and develop the essential skills you need to serve client families while apprenticing as a funeral director. You will take all program courses online. You may also participate in workshops and field trips organized by the campus.

The time to complete this program will vary and depends on your previous education and experience. It is expected that all students will be able to complete the program and apprenticeship within a 12-18 month period. Extensions may be arranged for students who need additional time to complete the program.

• NSCC has offered Funeral and Allied Health Services programs since 1990.


• We maintain close connections with Atlantic Canada’s funeral service providers, developing programs that respond to the changes in the provision of funeral services and the demands of the profession.


• Graduates enjoy strong employment rates - securing fulfilling employment in the field.


• The program is the only one available in Atlantic Canada.

• Graduates qualify for licensing as funeral directors. The apprenticeship requirements for students enrolled in the Funeral Arranging & Directing program vary from province to province generally, a licensing examination(s) is required. Licensing examinations may include both a written examination and a practical examination. For more information on provincial licensing requirements, contact your respective Board of Registration of Embalmers and Funeral Directors.


• Graduates may also work in the following services: prearrangement and at-need services, cremation services, funeral procedures, burial and memorial services, aftercare and bereavement.

Most graduates choose to work as funeral directors, but employment options are numerous. Graduates may be employed as pre-arrangement counselors, crematoria operators, or as representatives for a variety of funeral trade suppliers including funeral stationery suppliers, monument and casket manufacturers and memorial options.

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.


• You’re required to submit a letter of recommendation from your funeral home employer in support of your application. This letter should outline your work experience and confirm your apprenticeship.


• You’re also required to provide proof of registration of apprenticeship from your provincial licensing Board.


• Additional Admission Requirements PDF (224KB)

Health & Human Service Student Requirements – Additional program requirements are outlined in the Admissions section. Instructions on how to complete these requirements will be provided with your acceptance notification.

You can complete the Funeral Arranging & Directing certificate online.