How to become Embalmer
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- specialist courses run by a professional body
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Mortuary Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, or Embalmer Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship.
These can take between 2 and 3 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
If you're already working in the funeral industry, you could train to become an embalmer with support from your employer.
Volunteering
You might find it useful to have work experience in a funeral service, mortuary or funeral home when applying for trainee roles.
Other Routes
Training course
You'll usually need to complete an online or classroom based training course approved by the British Institute of Embalmers. You can take
Courses can take between 2 and 3 years to complete. You'll have practical sessions in an embalming theatre.
There are no set entry qualifications but GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, maths, chemistry or biology might be helpful.
When applying, you might have an advantage if you know about different faiths and cultures and the way they deal with death.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the British Institute of Embalmers to find out about professional development opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You'll find more details about working as an embalmer through the British Institute of Embalmers.