Certificate
Health Sciences
Physical

Certificate in Mortuary Science

A competency-based programme that prepares learners with practical skills in deceased body handling, preservation, embalming, mortuary hygiene, post-mortem support, documentation, ethics and

1 Year Next: January 2027 Physical
Certificate in Mortuary Science

Course Overview

The Certificate in Mortuary Science (TVET CDACC Level 5) is a competency-based programme designed to equip learners with the practical knowledge and workplace skills required in mortuary and funeral-service environments.

The programme introduces learners to human anatomy and physiology, mortuary microbiology, deceased body handling and management, body preservation, embalming techniques, mortuary premises maintenance, preparation of mortuary chemicals, post-mortem examination support, psychosocial support, professional ethics, legal requirements and occupational health and safety.

Through classroom learning, practical training and supervised workplace exposure, learners develop the competence to handle deceased persons with dignity, safety, professionalism and respect for families and cultural practices.

The programme provides a foundation for entry-level careers in hospital mortuaries, funeral homes, government and private mortuary facilities, and related pathology and forensic-support environments. It also provides a progression pathway to Diploma in Mortuary Science (Level 6), subject to the applicable entry requirements.

Learning Outcomes

Apply basic human anatomy and physiology knowledge to mortuary practice.

Receive, identify, handle, transfer and store deceased persons safely and respectfully.

Apply basic body preservation and embalming techniques within their scope of practice.

Prepare bodies for viewing, release and other authorized procedures.

Prepare mortuary facilities and equipment for post-mortem procedures.

Apply infection prevention, hygiene, sanitation and occupational safety procedures.

Handle mortuary chemicals, equipment and materials safely.

Maintain accurate mortuary records, identification information and documentation.

Apply legal, ethical and professional standards in mortuary practice.

Communicate professionally and sensitively with bereaved families and other stakeholders.

Demonstrate respect for cultural and religious practices surrounding death and burial.

Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare or funeral-service team.

Apply basic digital, research, communication and problem-solving skills in the workplace.

Entry Requirements

  • KCSE Mean Grade D (Plain) or its equivalent.

  • A relevant Level 4 qualification may also provide an entry route, subject to the applicable admission requirements.

The D (Plain) entry level is consistent with JFC's published Craft in Mortuary Science requirement, while other Kenyan institutions currently offering the Level 5 qualification also publish KCSE D (Plain) as the minimum entry requirement.

Quick Information

Duration1 Year
Next IntakeJanuary 2027
Study ModePhysical
CampusThika Main Campus
AwardCertificate in Mortuary Science
LanguageEnglish
Tuition FeeContact us
Class ScheduleWeekday Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) or Evening (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Deadline31 December 2026

Who Should Enroll

KCSE graduates with D (Plain) and above who want to enter the mortuary and funeral-services field.

School leavers looking for a specialized, practical health-sciences career.

Individuals interested in anatomy, body preservation, mortuary operations and healthcare support.

People who are comfortable working in a professional environment involving deceased persons.

Individuals who demonstrate maturity, attention to detail, cleanliness, confidentiality and respect for human dignity.

Workers already involved in mortuary or funeral-service support who want formal competency-based training.

Individuals seeking a pathway to Diploma in Mortuary Science.

Career changers interested in a specialized healthcare support profession.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue entry-level opportunities in public and private mortuary and funeral-service environments.

Possible roles include:

  • Mortuary Attendant

  • Mortuary Assistant

  • Funeral Home Assistant

  • Embalming Assistant

  • Deceased Body Care Assistant

  • Mortuary Operations Assistant

  • Post-Mortem Support Assistant

  • Mortuary Records Assistant

  • Mortuary Support Worker

Career opportunities exist in:

  • Public and private hospital mortuaries

  • County and national government health facilities

  • Private hospitals and medical centres

  • Funeral homes and funeral-service companies

  • Government and private morgues

  • Pathology departments

  • Forensic and post-mortem support environments

  • Other institutions providing mortuary services

Certification & Accreditation

Upon successful completion of the programme and the required competency assessments, learners receive the relevant TVET CDACC qualification/certification.

The programme falls within the TVET competency-based education and training framework, under which TVET CDACC is responsible for curriculum development, assessment and certification. The current TVET CDACC course portal lists Mortuary Science — Level 5, Cycle 03.

JFC Munene College of Health Sciences is registered by TVETA under Registration No. TVETA/PRIVATE/TVC/0090/2021. JFC's published programme records identify Craft in Mortuary Science at D as its Level 5 pathway and Diploma in Mortuary Science at C- as the Level 6 pathway.

Mortuary Technicians and Technologists are also listed among the approved cadres under the Kenya Health Professions Oversight Authority (KHPOA) framework. Registration and practice requirements are subject to the qualification, cadre and current regulatory requirements.

Facilities & Learning Resources

Modern lecture halls with audio-visual equipment

Science and practical laboratories

Practical mortuary training and simulation resources

Computer laboratory with internet access

Library and reference materials

Digital learning resources through the student portal

Personal protective equipment for practical sessions

Workplace and attachment exposure in relevant health-service environments

Wi-Fi-enabled learning environment

What Our Students Say

“I am very grateful for the knowledge and experience I gained during my studies at JFC. Thank you for opening door to so many opportunities and for setting me up for success.”

Diana Rapando

Alumni

Gallery

Gallery image 1Gallery image 2Gallery image 3

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements?

KCSE mean grade C- (minus) and above. Specific subject requirements apply per course. Equivalent qualifications are also considered.

How much are the tuition fees?

Tuition fees vary by program. Contact our admissions office for detailed fee structures and payment plans.

When are the intake periods?

We have 6 intakes yearly: January, March, May, July, September, and November. You can apply at any time.

How long is the application process?

Applications are processed within 1-2 weeks. Once accepted, you will receive an admission letter via email.

Do you offer accommodation?

Yes, we assist students in finding suitable accommodation near the campus. Contact admissions for details.

Is financial assistance available?

We offer flexible payment plans and have partnered with Rafiki Microfinance Bank for education loans.

What certification will I receive?

Graduates receive a Certificate in Certificate in Mortuary Science from JFC Munene College, accredited by TVETA.

Are there internship opportunities?

Yes, we have clinical placement partnerships with leading hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Can I study while working?

We offer flexible class schedules including weekday morning, evening, and weekend classes.

How do I apply?

You can apply online through our website, visit the campus, or call our admissions office for assistance.

Loading questions...

Application Process

01

Submit Application

Fill out the online application form

02

Upload Documents

Submit KCSE results & ID

03

Receive Letter

Get your admission letter

04

Pay Fees

Complete fee payment

05

Begin Classes

Start your learning journey

Contact Admissions

WhatsApp

0700 114 115

Campus

Thika Town, Kiambu County, Kenya

Office Hours

Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Start Building Your Future Today

Gain practical skills, earn an accredited qualification, and prepare for a rewarding career with industry-focused training at JFC Munene College.