Frequently Asked Questions about the Funeral Service Programs
Pictured above: Elena Mroczkowski '17, Point Park University funeral service alumna and PIMS graduate
Traditional Bachelor of Science (3-1) program
When do I contact the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science (PIMS) to learn about the program and let them know I will be attending?
You can contact PIMS at any time before or after you begin your studies at Point Park University to schedule a visit and learn more about the PIMS campus and program. You should contact the PIMS Admission Office one year prior to completing your Point Park courses to begin the enrollment process for PIMS.
When do I attend PIMS?
The traditional Bachelor of Science in Specialized Professional Studies – Funeral Service program is a cooperative 3-1 program. You will attend Point Park for your first 72 credits (four to six semesters) of study and then attend PIMS for you final 60 credits (three semesters). For most students, this will be three years at Point Park and one year at PIMS. During your final year at PIMS, you will also complete a research project at Point Park for your senior capstone.
What program do I take while I attend PIMS?
You will enroll in the PIMS Diploma Program (Embalming and Funeral Director) which is a three semester program (fall, spring and summer). Once completed, 48 of the 60 credits in the PIMS program will transfer back to Point Park and you will receive your bachelor’s degree from Point Park.
What courses are required at Point Park before I attend PIMS?
The courses required for the traditional Bachelor of Science in professional studies/funeral service degree program can be found in this degree requirements guide.
How is financial aid handled when I attend PIMS?
Point Park’s Office of Financial Aid will process your financial aid — including your year at PIMS. You will need to complete a Financial Aid Consortium Agreement form before you attend PIMS.
If you choose to live on campus during your PIMS year, federal and state financial aid awards will be applied toward housing expenses first. Any remainder will be refunded to you, and you will be responsible for paying PIMS tuition.
If you choose to live off campus during your PIMS year, federal and state financial aid awards will be refunded to you, and you will be responsible for paying PIMS tuition.
Students are not eligible for Point Park University scholarships or grants while taking classes at PIMS.
Can I get food and housing at Point Park while I attend PIMS?
Yes.
Am I considered a Point Park student while at PIMS?
Yes. You will have a Point Park ID card and have access to the library, computer labs, dining facilities, student clubs, student activities, etc. Eligibility to participate in NAIA sports is determined on an individual basis.
Capstone Bachelor of Science program
When do I attend PIMS?
The capstone Bachelor of Science in Specialized Professional Studies – Funeral Service program is a cooperative program. You will attend PIMS for your first 97 credits (five semesters) of study and then attend Point Park for you final 36 credits (two semesters). For most students, this will be two years at PIMS (including a summer semester) and one year at Point Park.
What program do I take while I attend PIMS?
You will enroll in the Associate in Specialized Business Degree program (Funeral Service Management) which is a five semester program (includes a summer semester). Once completed, 84 of the 97 credits in the PIMS program will transfer to Point Park and you will begin the bachelor’s degree capstone program at Point Park.
What courses are required at Point Park before I attend PIMS?
The courses required for the capstone Bachelor of Science in professional studies/funeral service degree program can be found in this degree requirements guide.
How is financial aid handled when I attend PIMS?
Upon admission into the capstone program, Point Park’s Office of Financial Aid will process your financial aid for your studies at Point Park.
Students are not eligible for Point Park University scholarships or grants while taking classes at PIMS.
Can I get food and housing at Point Park while I attend PIMS?
Yes, you may choose to live on campus during your time at PIMS. You will be responsible for paying food and housing costs at Point Park.
Am I considered a Point Park student while at PIMS?
No, this is a capstone program. You will be a PIMS student while taking classes at PIMS and a Point Park student while taking classes at Point Park. However, you will be governed by all applicable University policies if you choose to stay on campus during your time at PIMS.