General Education

Course descriptions are designed to depict each course content in understandable items to aid the student in a complete comprehension of requisite studies to attain the objectives of the program.

 

HIS 101 United States History to 1865

A chronological study of U.S. History from the age of discovery through the Civil War in America, with an emphasis on the interrelationship of problems and solutions. In conjunction with History 102, this satisfies Georgia requirements for instruction in the U.S. and Georgia Constitution. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

HIS 102 United States History from 1865

This quarter takes the United States from the Reconstruction period to the present. Emphasis is placed on the rise of the United States as a world power and its interrelationships in a global society. In conjunction with History 101, the course satisfies Georgia requirements for instruction in the U.S. and Georgia Constitution. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

ENG 101 English Composition

An overview of the rules of grammar, sentence and paragraph construction is given in this course. The second half of the quarter deals with the preparation of a multi-paragraph theme. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

ENG 102 Introduction to Literature

This course focuses on the short story, drama, and the novel. The elements of each genre discussed in lecture and reading selections are chosen as examples of lecture material. Large and small group discussions will follow reading assignments. A knowledge of grammar and skill in writing will be necessary to meet the composition requirements of the course. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 101 Applied Business Mathematics

This is a one quarter course that focuses on the basic concepts of personal money management, basic buying problems, and special buying problems are reviewed. Taxes, the balance sheet income statements, figuring trade and cash discounts as well as profits and pricing are covered. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

PSY 102 General Psychology

This course is designed to introduce the student to the study of human behavior and mental processes and how they are affected by an organism’s physical state, mental state, and external environment. Included in the study are psychological perspectives, motivations and emotions, theories of personality and social behavior. Students will work to describe, understand, predict and direct behavior. 5 quarter hours credit.

Funeral Service Core Courses 

 

SCI 202 Principles of Anatomy I

This course introduces the student to a basic vocabulary in the study of the structure and function of the human body. Systemic anatomy of the skeletal system and an introduction to the circulatory system, including hematology, cardiology, and arteriology is presented. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 301 Principles of Anatomy II

This course concludes the study of the circulatory system, including phlebology and an overview of the lymphatic system. Also covered are the muscular, endocrine, nervous, digestive, urinary, respiratory, reproductive, and integumentary systems. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 351 Principles of Inorganic Chemistry

Basic concepts and definitions in chemistry, including types and forms of matter and the changes matter undergoes. Selected elements, molecules and compounds fundamental to understanding the embalming process are studied. The properties of solutions and other mixtures are also examined, with emphasis on ionization, pH, and osmosis and diffusion. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 352 Principles of Organic Chemistry

An introduction to the study of compounds of carbon. The classes of organic compounds are identified, defined, and studied, and their functions in biochemistry or physiological chemistry, embalming, and toxicology are examined. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 212 Principles of Embalming I

The basic course in embalming begins with a brief explanation of the need for embalming and its results. The history of embalming is explored from earlier times up to and including modern day. Also, the basic considerations such as equipment and instruments are introduced. In addition, a complete study of post mortem changes along with the various physical and chemical changes are addressed during this quarter. Cause and manners of death are also examined. Ante-mortem changes and their effect are also discussed. Last, analyzing the case and prescribing the proper fluid dilution mixture is explored. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 311 Principles of Embalming II

As a continuation, the student is introduced to the embalming procedure through case analysis. A detailed discussion of proper procedure and sequence in embalming is emphasized. Methods of injection as well as cavity treatment are explored. A discussion involving the selection of vessels is covered. Various types of embalming chemicals are introduced and described in detail. Attention is focused on describing intrinsic as well as extrinsic factors. Also, an understanding of how the various intravascular and extravascular factors influence an embalmer’s case analysis is examined. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 312 Principles of Embalming III

The final quarter of embalming emphasizes vascular anatomy. Moreover, the study of special cases and how to prepare them is discussed. Individual cases are examined in detail and consideration is given to each specific type of death in relation to the problems that are encountered as well as what treatments to apply. Various discolorations are examined as they effect the embalmer’s case analysis. Linear guides along with anatomical guides are discussed in depth. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

Embalming Clinical Program

As a requirement for graduation, students must participate in at least the minimum number of case reports as required by the College. This requires the student to obtain practical exposure to the principles of embalming as taught in the classroom setting. The Clinical Program is provided in approved funeral establishments in the metropolitan area, as well as in the College preparation room. All clinical instruction is completed under the supervision of licensed embalmers who are approved by the College, using only established and accepted embalming techniques. This course of study is a portion of Principles of Embalming II and Principles of Embalming III courses.

 

SCI 221 Principles of Microbiology I

This course is an introduction to the study of the general characteristics, morphology, anatomy, and physiology of microbes. The course contains a thorough study of various methods of disinfection, sterilization, and control of pathogens. Basic principles of disease and immunology are also discussed. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 222 Principles of Microbiology II

The characteristics and pathogenicity of selected forms of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, with emphasis on the personal and public health aspects of embalming are studied. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 331 Principles of Pathology I

This course involves an introduction to basic terminology, a study of the divisions of pathology, the nature and cause of disease, circulatory disturbances, inflammation, and a study of tumors and cysts. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 332 Principles of Pathology II

This course involves primarily special pathology, focusing on a study of the diseases of the heart, blood, and vessels, the respiratory, digestive, urinary, endocrine, reproductive, nervous, skeletal, and integumentary systems. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 242 Principles of Restorative Art I

The basic principles of restorative art, with detailed analysis of the facets of human anatomy which are responsible for the characteristics common to the countenance of man are included in this course. Specifically covered are introductory terminology, terms of anatomical direction, bony structures which influence surface form, the muscles of expression, facial proportion, facial profiles, and geometric headshapes. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 341 Principles of Restorative Art II

The quarter begins with a detailed study of the facial features, including the classification and description of the facial markings. Also included is a study of tissue preparation and the adaptation of waxes for modeling techniques. The quarter is concluded with a thorough study of the various cases requiring wax treatments. The theoretical phase of this course is supplemented by a laboratory workshop in which the student is issued a modeling head, modeling tools, wax, and a basic cosmetic kit. Through the application of the theory, the student is taught to create on the modeling head specific features for that quarter. 2.5 quarter hours credit.

 

SCI 342 Principles of Restorative Art III

The final quarter of Restorative Art begins with a comprehensive study of color theory, including the various applications of color within the funeral home operation and the mixing, blending and applying of cosmetic colors. Treatments which require waxing, as well as non-wax treatments, such as hair restoration, hypodermic tissue building and correction of swellings are also discussed. The laboratory work for this quarter includes final facial features and markings, as well as cosmetic application for the completed face. 2.5 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 201 Principles of Accounting

The basic accounting principles are introduced to the student from a funeral service perspective. Emphasis is placed upon the use of accounts, journals and ledgers, and proper procedures in journalizing and posting. Emphasis is placed on the study of the financial statements for a business at the conclusion of an accounting period. Payroll, federal and other taxes are covered in this course as well. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 211 Computers in Funeral Service

A basic introduction to data processing with modern computer systems as it relates to funeral service is covered in the course of study. Basic hardware and software concepts are introduced, with a discussion of general computer related terminology and processes. The Computer Laboratory will give the student the opportunity to work with a modern computer and will cover hands-on instruction in operating system, word processing, and funeral service software. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 212 Funeral Service Management I

The funeral service student is introduced to the basic principles of management as they apply to the funeral profession. The course is divided into two main sections. The first section includes a study of the basic principles of funeral service and the duties of the funeral director. Included is information on: notification of death, transfer of remains, the arrangement conference and pre-planned/pre-funded funerals. The second section examines general management technique and theory as it relates to funeral service practice. A study of the proper terminology specific to funeral service is also included. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 311 Funeral Service Management II

This course of study is designed to introduce the student to the various types of merchandise that may be made available through the funeral home and the basic principles of merchandising as they apply to the funeral profession. The course is divided into three main sections. The first section covers the construction and features of caskets and outer burial containers. The second section covers cemetery and cremation merchandise. The third section examines methods of pricing, display, presentation and control of funeral merchandise. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 312 Funeral Service Management III

This quarter’s study begins with information on various religious funeral practices, as well as fraternal and military funeral practices. Students will be given the opportunity to demonstrate a practical application of merchandising theory through the evaluation and design of a funeral home including a model selection room. They will also study and complete various forms, records, and benefits that are available for the decreased. They will conclude the quarter with information on the proper use of the U.S. Flag for burial purposes. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 222 Small Business Management

A course which has as its focus the effective management of small firms. The student becomes aware of the management process, including strategy formation, and the activities of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling small business operations. Emphasis is placed on those phases of management which are so uniquely important to the successful operation of small firms. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

ENG 201 Communication Skills for Funeral Service

This course introduces the student of funeral service to the art and science of effective communication skills as they relate to the funeral service environment. Fundamental principles of oral and written communication are presented. Practical experience in the completion of resumes, memos, obituaries, business letters, and speech outlines is also included. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

SOC 301 Sociology of Funeral Service

The social phenomena of funeral service is explored to familiarize the student with his/ her role as a sociologist in his/her community. The culturally defined meaning of death; the rituals, customs and practices of various cultures and subcultures; the changes in the American funeral rite; influence of organized religions; and traditional and nontraditional funeral practices are uniquely approached to prepare the funeral director for the challenges of service in the profession. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

PSY 201 Psychology of Funeral Service

An understanding of the emotion of grief, the process of mourning, and the state of bereavement can aid the funeral director in offering a more empathetic and emotionally satisfying funeral service. Included in this course are the stages of grief, views of death according to age, complicated grief reactions, and the therapy provided by the funeral service. Special types of losses, such as suicide, SIDS, AIDS, and accidents are studied for their effects on the family system. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

PSY 202 Counseling

This course focuses on the basic skills and techniques associated with effective funeral service counseling. Various definitions, as well as types of counseling, are discussed as they affect today’s practicing funeral director. The qualities associated with the definition of a crisis situation are included through the examination of crisis intervention counseling. The course concludes by examining the characteristics associated with the funeral director’s own grief. Signs of stress and burnout in the profession are also discussed. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

HIS 201 History of Funeral Service

This course includes an examination of the various funeral customs that have developed through time and into the modern era. Emphasis is placed on the origins of modern day funeral practices. The influence and the role of embalming is discussed as it developed from the ancient Egyptians to refinement in modern day funeral homes. 2 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 322 Business Law

This course offers an overview of the critical areas of business law related to daily business operations. Concentrations of study include contracts, bailments, agencies, commercial paper and legal forms of ownership. Students are introduced to the legal implications of insurance, wills and estates. 5 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 221 Mortuary Law/Ethics

A study of the laws regarding the disposal of the dead human body and rights, duties and responsibilities of the funeral service practitioner in relation to preparation, interment and disinterment of the dead human body are covered in this course. Statutory laws directly pertaining to funeral service are discussed. Landmark court decisions relating to funeral service are presented. Funeral service professional ethics from both a personal and business point of view are thoroughly discussed. The Federal Trade Commission Rules and Compliance are also updated in this course. 3 quarter hours credit.

 

MGT 302 Comprehensive Survey and Review

This course involves a review of previous coursework during the year, with new material covered at the instructor’s discretion. Preparation for comprehensive and board examinations is the main focus. 2 quarter hours credit.