OSHER 420 - History of Funeral Service

This course is a brief introduction to the modern-day funeral service covering historical developments, contemporary practices, and the values of funeral service. Professional qualifications and ethics and their application to current practices will be discussed. Students will learn about religious rites, ceremonies, and memorial practices of different faiths. These include Protestant, Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Jewish, and Buddhist religions, as well as military, veteran, and fraternal organizations. Instruction includes guest speakers. Modern-day funeral service operation, law and regulations will also be discussed.