5808 Baum Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA 15206

Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science (PIMS) offers a comprehensive program for individuals interested in pursuing careers in funeral service. The forward-thinking, diverse curriculum at PIMS addresses many important issues in contemporary funeral service, including up-to-date instruction about business management and accounting, psychology, counseling, marketing and public relations. A course in computer science is also offered, and a professional seminar series informs students about different aspects of the modern funeral service industry. The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science makes special effort to ensure that its students graduate with a sense of social consciousness and an understanding of the unique responsibilities faced by those who work in the funeral services industry.

Several degree programs are offered at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. The diploma program in embalming and funeral director is a one-year course of study. The school also offers an Associate in Specialized Technology (AST) degree in funeral service management. This 20-month program combines previous college-level experience with an education at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. In addition, PIMS has partnered with four different colleges and universities on a cooperative Bachelor's degree program. Students in this track can complete all the requirements for a Bachelor's of science degree in as few as 28 months.

There are four main areas of instruction at Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. These are: basic and health sciences, business and professional principles and practice, behavioral and social sciences, and legal ethical regulatory and other related areas. Students take a full range of courses in these areas, such as human anatomy, English, funeral service marketing, death and children, psychology of grief and counseling, funeral service law and world religions.

Students at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science can also take class online to earn a diploma in embalming and funeral directing or an AST degree. Most coursework is done via the Internet, and lab sessions are completed in short, intensive sessions on campus. Reference materials are available to all PIMS students at the William J. Musmanno Memorial Library.

Quick Facts

The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science's motto is "Scientia, Sollertia, Servitium," which translates as "Knowledge, Skills and Service."

Field trips to funeral homes, crematoriums, casket companies and monument dealers supplement the educational experience at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science.

PIMS is centrally located in Pittsburgh's Shadyside neighborhood, not far from the city's downtown.

The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science is accredited by the American Board of funeral service education.

This school profile has been compiled and updated by The CollegeBound Network. The school is not affiliated with The CollegeBound Network and shall not be considered a sponsor of this program.