Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service

There are exactly two academic paths here, both laser-focused on funeral service: a 60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree (leading to dual licensure as funeral director and embalmer) and a shorter Certificate in Funeral Directing. The curriculum is purely vocational—no liberal arts distractions—with coursework covering restorative art, mortuary law, and embalming chemistry. Online options exist for some courses, with Reddit users praising the flexibility for working students. The 40:1 student-faculty ratio suggests large lectures aren't part of the equation; this is hands-on training for a hands-on profession.

Don't expect football games or Greek life—this is a commuter campus where even the Student Council's activities are described as "campus/community" events in the catalog. The urban Houston location provides off-campus diversions, but most students seem to treat Commonwealth as a professional training ground rather than a traditional college experience. With nearly all students enrolled full-time and the program's intensity, camaraderie develops through shared lab work (think: embalming practicums) rather than dorm life (there isn't any).

The numbers tell a compelling story: a 58% graduation rate (well above the 35% average for two-year schools) and 72% employment in funeral service post-graduation. Median earnings hit $55,538—a strong return for an associate degree—though some sources report lower figures around $38k. The program's accreditation by the American Board of Funeral Service Education ensures graduates meet licensing requirements nationwide. Notably, 89% of graduates pass their board exams, suggesting the no-frills curriculum delivers where it counts.

Here's the rub: Commonwealth isn't cheap. The average net price after aid is $44,047—more than quadruple the $9,666 midpoint for two-year colleges. While 100% of full-time beginners receive some grant/scholarship aid, the average package is just $1,396, leaving many students to cover substantial costs. The school provides a net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator, but prospective students should weigh these expenses against the relatively high earning potential in funeral service.

Commonwealth is one of those rare institutions that does exactly one thing—trains funeral professionals—with zero pretension or dilution of mission. Its strengths are specificity (no gen-ed fluff), industry connections (72% job placement speaks volumes), and a pragmatic approach that attracts career-changers and first-gen?First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. students alike. The gender imbalance reflects broader funeral industry trends, creating a unique dynamic. While the price tag gives pause, the ROI appears solid for those committed to this niche but steady profession.