How to Become a Qualified Embalmer

What to do if you want to be a qualified embalmer

In order to become a member of the British Institute of Embalmers (BIE) you, the applicant must successfully complete an approved training course recognised by the BIE and then apply for membership.

Training is provided by BIE accredited tutors who teach an approved syllabus and are accredited by the Institute. The tutors are not employed by the Institute and any fees, except those paid for examinations and membership, are paid directly to the tutor.

You will be required to sit an entrance test before the start of your course to ensure your suitability.

Student Membership

Initial membership of the BIE is gained by becoming a student member. To become a student member for 3 years you must be 18 years of age.

You will need to enrol with a BIE accredited tutor who will test your suitability for the course by way of an entrance test. If you pass this test you will follow the steps outlined belo

Course Structure

What Will You Learn?

By the end of the course you should know:

  • The requirements of setting up an embalming theatre and all that this entails
  • The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and how it relates to the embalmer
  • The anatomy and physiology of the human body from the cell to the fully developed individual
  • Common human pathology
  • About changes to the tissue after death and how these must be considered during the embalming process
  • The embalming process itself from preparation prior to embalming to the completion
  • Managing expectations and embalming ‘special’ cases
  • Precautions and infection control

The overall aim of the course is to provide you with the necessary skills to become a confident and effective, problem solving embalmer.

This will be achieved through academic study and supervised practical embalming experience.