top of page
Rainbow Clouds

Diploma in Funeral Service

The British Institute of Funeral Directors (BIFD) Certificate in Funeral Service is accredited by Greenwich University at Level 4 (30 Credits)

Course Structure & Delivery

The Diploma in Funeral Service is an advanced, comprehensive programme designed for experienced professionals wishing to deepen their expertise. Delivered over a 12-month period, this course follows a five-module syllabus taught through a flexible blended learning format. Students will benefit from a combination of in-person and online Tutor-led classes.

​

📅 Course Dates: March 2027 – March 2028
🏨 Location: To Be Announced
💻 Additional Learning: Online ZOOM sessions
💰 Course Fees: £3795.00

​

This structured learning experience provides both theoretical depth and practical application. The programme culminates in both a written and a simulated final examination in April 2028.

​

Modules Covered:

  1. Public Health and the Funeral Profession,
    First Call and Moving the Deceased,
    Care of the Deceased,
    Arranging the Funeral

  2. Funerals for Children,
    Office Procedures,
    Funeral Rites,
    Conducting the Funeral,
    Alternative Funerals

  3. Registration of a Death in England and Wales,
    The Work of His Majesty’s Coroner,
    The Law and Practice of Cremation,
    The Law and Practice of Burial

  4. Repatriation,
    Burial at Sea,
    Bequeathal,
    Exhumation

  5. Assistance with Funeral Expenses and Administration of the Estate,
    Funeral Procedures and Law in Scotland,
    Funeral Procedures and Law in Northern Ireland

Assessment & Accreditation

Assessment throughout the course includes formative tutor-marked proof of learning reports, individual projects, and presentations. Learners are expected to complete 60 hours of private study using the syllabus and research tools to prepare for the final assessment.

​

A 1,500-word summative report based on the observation of a funeral being conducted must also be submitted. This report is sent to Greenwich University as part of the course accreditation process.

 

Final Examination:
📝 A 2-hour written paper featuring short essay-style questions
🗣️ A 1-hour simulated Funeral Arrangement with an Accredited Examiner
✅ Pass mark: 60%
📚 Exam papers are marked by accredited members of the BIFD examinations board and submitted to Greenwich University for accreditation.

​

Grading Criteria:

  • Distinction: 80% and above

  • Merit: 70% – 79%

  • Pass: 60% – 69%

  • Referral: Below 60%
    ​

Qualification:
Successful completion of all five theory units, tutor-marked assessments, summative report, and both the written and oral final examinations will result in the award of the Diploma in Funeral Service, accredited by Greenwich University at Level 4 (30 Credits).

​

This Diploma represents a significant step in professional development and reflects a high standard of competence in the funeral profession.

bottom of page