Certificate in Mortuary Science
Unit Overview
The Certificate in Mortuary Science is a specialised program designed for students who want to work in funeral services and mortuary care within a professional healthcare environment. It prepares learners to handle deceased persons with dignity, respect, and proper technical procedures.
In many hospitals today, mortuary services are an essential part of healthcare delivery. This course introduces you to the correct handling, storage, identification, and documentation processes involved when a patient passes on. It is not just technical work — it also requires emotional maturity, discipline, and strong ethical standards.
At St. Mary’s, training is grounded in real hospital practice. You are exposed to how mortuary services are managed within a working health facility, including coordination with clinical teams, families, and administrative systems. This helps you understand both the technical and human side of the work.
The program follows the TVET CDACC competency-based approach, meaning you are trained and assessed on practical ability. By the end of the course, you are expected to handle basic mortuary procedures under supervision, following professional and safety standards.
Unit Objectives
By the end of this unit, students will be able to:
- Equip learners with skills in mortuary care and body handling procedures
- Develop competence in preservation, storage, and documentation processes
- Promote professionalism, dignity, and ethical conduct in mortuary services
- Build understanding of health, safety, and infection control standards
- Prepare learners for entry-level roles in mortuary and funeral services
Unit Content
Key areas of study include:
- Introduction to mortuary science
- Anatomy and physiology (basic level)
- Handling and movement of deceased persons
- Preservation and storage techniques
- Infection prevention and control
- Mortuary hygiene and sanitation
- Documentation and identification procedures
- Communication with families and stakeholders
- Workplace safety and ethics
- Industrial attachment / mortuary practice
Career Opportunities
Graduates can work in:
- Hospital mortuaries
- Funeral homes and services
- Public and private health facilities
Entry Requirements
KCSE Mean Grade D (Plain) or equivalent qualification
Duration of the Unit
1 Year, 3 Months
Why Study This Unit?
- High market demand
- Hands-on practical learning
- Pathway to further professional growth
