The Funeral Service professional works with the bereaved, providing sensitive, effective intervention. The funeral service employee may perform any of the following duties:

• provide support to the bereaved;
• arrange and direct funeral ceremonies;
• in accordance with mortuary law and code of ethics, prepare the deceased according to the wishes of the survivors; and  
• through counseling and assistance with practical matters, help individuals adapt to changes in their lives following a death.

Delgado's Funeral Service Education program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree program.  Students must take the National Board Exam administered by the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards, Inc., as a requirement for graduation.

The basic objectives of the program have remained the same, namely that all students should: 

1.      Develop fully their capabilities and, with assistance, set realistic goals for themselves.

2.      Work in an environment in which they may be able to achieve social, moral, and vocational enrichment.

3.      Understand the need for self-discipline, for respect for others, and for individual and group cooperation.

4.      Perceive that learning and self-improvement are lifelong processes.

Specific goals of the Program are as follows:

1.      Provide a modern curriculum appropriate for the advancement of funeral service education.

2.      Fulfill an obligation to the community, our students, graduates, and to the funeral service profession.

3.      Acquire and maintain high standards in the areas of academics and in basic skills and techniques.

4.      Provide each student with the opportunity to develop the technical skills necessary as a foundation for competence in funeral service.

5.        Encourage students to take an active role in their communities, schools, hospitals, and places of  worship.    

Dev Develop in students an understanding of their responsibilities regarding moral and ethical conduct, showing reverence for the dead and empathy for those grieving.      

Cre Create an ongoing desire for professional growth through continuing education and graduate development.

8.      Provide a basic understanding of human behavior and the practical application of that understanding to self and others.

9.       Develop in students a sense of responsibility toward the funeral service profession and to society, by emphasizing the need for efficient, caring service to the public, as well as a need to protect the public health.

CooCooperate with the profession, its organizations, and agencies in any role that results in the advancement of the funeral service profession, licensure requisites, and research in the arts and sciences relative to the profession.