Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service

Overview:

Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service (CIFS) is a vocational, post-secondary teaching institution dedicated to educating individuals seeking a career in funeral service. Established in 1936, CIFS focuses solely on funeral service education, offering both on-campus and online learning options.

Services Offered:

CIFS provides a comprehensive educational experience for aspiring funeral service professionals, including:

Associate of Applied Science Degree:

Offered both on-campus and online, this program prepares students for licensure as funeral directors and embalmers.

Certificate in Funeral Directing:

This online program focuses on the practical aspects of funeral directing, equipping students with the necessary skills for a successful career.

Externships & Labs:

CIFS emphasizes applied learning through hands-on experiences in their labs and externships at funeral homes.

Student Services:

CIFS offers a range of student support services, including a library, student organizations, job and career information, and transcript request services.

Alumni Association:

CIFS provides a platform for alumni to connect, network, and access resources like continuing education opportunities and job listings.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Key Reasons to Study There:

Focus on Funeral Service:

CIFS specializes in funeral service education, providing a dedicated and comprehensive learning environment.

Applied Learning:

CIFS emphasizes practical skills development through labs and externships, ensuring students are well-prepared for the profession.

Online and On-Campus Options:

CIFS offers flexibility with both on-campus and online programs, catering to diverse learning preferences.

Accreditation and Memberships:

CIFS is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE) and holds memberships with other relevant organizations, ensuring quality education and industry recognition.

Academic Programs:

CIFS offers two main academic programs:

Associate of Applied Science Degree:

This program covers a wide range of subjects related to funeral service, including anatomy, embalming, funeral directing, and business management.

Certificate in Funeral Directing:

This program focuses on the practical aspects of funeral directing, including arrangements, legal requirements, and communication skills.

Other:

CIFS is committed to raising the standards of the funeral service profession. They offer a variety of resources for students and alumni, including a dedicated website, social media presence, and a contact form for inquiries.