New Zealand Diploma in Funeral Directing (Level 5)

Program Overview

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The New Zealand Diploma in Funeral Directing (Level 5) is a fully online program that provides employed funeral directors with credentials to support career advancement. Graduates will exhibit professional conduct, skillfully communicate diverse funeral options, effectively interact with stakeholders, and expertly coordinate all aspects of funerals. Upon successful program completion, graduates are qualified as funeral directors and can apply for membership in the Funeral Celebrants Association NZ for professional development opportunities.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

• The New Zealand Diploma in Funeral Directing (Level 5) is a fully online program focused on maintaining the professional standards of the funeral services industry.
• The program provides employed funeral directors with credentials to support career advancement.

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Objectives:

• Graduates will exhibit professional conduct, applying ethical guidelines to the funeral director role.
• Skillfully communicate diverse funeral options, working closely with bereaved families and communities to guarantee optimal service delivery outcomes.
• Effectively interact with various stakeholders involved in funeral services.
• Adroitly integrate the historical and philosophical aspects of funeral directing within the operational processes.
• Accurately discern the specific needs, preferences, and cultural considerations for funeral-related rituals and activities as expressed by the bereaved families.
• Expertly coordinate all aspects of funerals, adhering to legal frameworks and ethical standards of the industry.
• Demonstrate proficiency in ensuring a safe work environment for themselves, others, and the ecosystem within the realm of funeral services.

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Career Opportunities:

• Upon successful program completion, graduates are qualified as funeral directors.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Program content focuses on the funeral industry's legal and ethical requirements, including communication skills, professional behavior, safety protocols, and funeral service coordination, aligning with the New Zealand Code of Funeral Directors.

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Structure:

• This fully online program utilizes an interactive learning platform, where participants engage with a supportive online learning community with access to academic advisors and tutors.

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Course Schedule:

• The course schedule comprises 24 modules delivered across a 120 credit framework, with flexibility to accommodate individual learners' pace.

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Module Descriptions:

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• Module 1: Code of Funeral Directing.
• Module 2: Cultural Perspectives on Death, Dying and Bereavement.
• Module 3: History and Philosophy of Funeral Directing - Aotearoa and International.
• Module 4: Care of the Deceased.
• Module 5: Funeral Arrangements.
• Module 6: Funeral Service Preparation and Delivery.
• Module 7: Grief, Loss, and Bereavement.
• Module 9: Legislation, Regulations and Policies in Funeral Directing.
• Module 10: Stakeholder Engagement in the Funeral Directing Industry - Internal & External Roles.
• Module 11: Managing Funeral Business Operations - Financial Administration and Accounting.
• Module 12: Funeral Operations Risk Management.
• Module 13: Funeral Industry Marketing Strategies.
• Module 14: Grief Counseling and Supporting the Grieving.
• Module 15: Funeral Etiquette and Rituals - Cultural Considerations and Religious Practices.
• Module 16: Funeral Prearrangements and Pre-payment Options.
• Module 19: Environmental Sustainability and Ethical Practices in the Funeral Directing Industry: Green Burial Options.
• Module 20: Grief and Loss Theory.
• Module 22: Occupational Safety and Health in Funeral Directing Services - Risk Reduction and Prevention Measures.
• Module 23: Mortuary Science - Ethical Considerations, Anatomy, and Microbiology of Human Decomposition.
• Module 24: Case Studies in Funeral Management.
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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Continuous assessments throughout the modules, including assignments, case studies, research projects and practical assessments.
• External examinations may also be included in specific modules.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Demonstrated knowledge and application of theoretical concepts within a practical context relevant to the funeral services industry's legal and ethical principles.
• Effective and empathetic communication skills in a client-centered approach catering to the diverse requirements of different cultures and backgrounds.
• Critical analysis and ethical decision-making in real-world scenarios, upholding professional standards as outlined by the industry's code of ethics and best practices.
• A comprehensive understanding and ability to implement current legislation, regulations, and policies in the area of funeral directing.

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Careers:

• Graduates possess the skills and qualifications necessary to secure employment as funeral directors.