FAQs
Here you will find the answers to most of the commonly asked questions that prospective students have as they are researching online mortuary school programs.
New classes start each year in May and September.
The design of the online program is flexible to the online learner, however, some items are still required.
• PC running Windows 7 or newer or Mac running OS 10.10 or newer
• Reliable internet connection with the recommended speeds of 8 Mbps download / 2 Mbps upload
• Speakers, webcam, and microphone (Video conferencing and proctored exams)
• Google Chrome Web browser Version 48 or more current (proctored exams)
• Microsoft Office using the provided Office 365 online version or a personal license running version 2010 or more current
• An up-to-date installation of Adobe® Reader
Please see the Worsham Online Student Handbook for additional details.
The online program will take 16 months to complete. For example, the class starting in September 2023 will graduate in January 2025; and the class starting in May 2024 will graduate in September 2025.
The online program costs $24,800* ($23,800 tuition + $1,000 for laboratory expenses). This includes all courses, including all general education requirements for the AS degree. Our inclusive upfront pricing includes all technology fees:
• Student email
• Online industry-specific library
• Student learning management software
• Video conferencing
• Tech support
• Exam proctoring
• Career resources and Jobs Board
*Prices are subject to change. Once a student enrolls their tuition will not increase.
The Worsham online degree program has all the necessary prerequisites built into the program. Therefore, it is not required to take specific college courses prior to enrolling in our online program.
Applicants who do not have at least 12 college credits must meet one of the following admissions requirements:
• Graduate from high school in the top 25% of graduating class
• SAT combined score of 1000
• ACT composite score of 20
• Subject score above 260 in Worsham entrance exam provided by ACCUPLACER
The Worsham online program is an accelerated path to your Associate of Science Degree and as such requires a significant time commitment. Students in our online program commit to the same amount or even more hours than those in our campus programs. For each semester credit, a student should anticipate spending 3 hours per week on coursework and assignments.
• Flexible class times–course content is always available
• Students can learn from any location
• No need to commute–save on transportation expenses and hours of Chicago traffic!
• No need to relocate–save money on living expenses
Examinations are administered remotely at your home, office, or any quiet place where you will not be interrupted. You will need a computer/laptop with an internet connection, webcam, and microphone to be able to take exams. Worsham College uses the proctoring software program Proctorio which helps ensure the integrity of the test results. Students are also welcome to proctor on campus if preferred.
During the final semester, you are required to spend one week at the school to complete the Restorative Art and Embalming Competencies as part of your On-Campus Residency.
Besides the required week at the end of the program, you are welcome to come to campus to take a tour, study, work on coursework, use the library, restorative art lab, and computer lab, and meet with the instructors. Online students have all of the same privileges and access as our campus students.
See our page dedicated to information about the entrance exam for answers to the most commonly asked questions. If you need additional information, you are welcome to speak with a member of our staff at 847.808.8444 and we will be happy to assist.
Online students must possess a basic knowledge of computer and internet skills in order to be successful. Here are some of the highlights:
• Knowledge of basic computer terminology (i.e. browser, application, upload/download, etc.)
• Ability to use computer hardware, including keyboard, mouse, speakers, microphone, and webcam
• Ability to safely install software, while maintaining security and virus protection
• Use of software applications, such as Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel)
• File and folder management; ability to save, name, copy, move, backup, rename, delete, and check properties
• Understanding and management of files in different formats
• Basic internet literacy (connecting to the internet, troubleshooting connection, using browsers) and ability to perform online research using various search engines and library databases
• Ability to use online communication tools, such as email (including sending/receiving attachments), discussion boards, chats, messengers, and video conferencing
Additional information is provided in the Worsham College Student Handbook.
Online education at Worsham College can offer many students a path toward achieving their goals on their own schedules. To ensure the program is a good fit for you, consider the following challenges of online education:
• Requires strong time management skills and self-motivation.
• Learning curve may be steeper for the less technically savvy.
• Internet and technology-dependent—access is susceptible to network connections, browser compatibility issues, etc.
• In-person contact with professors and classmates is limited to the On-Campus Residency; distance learning requires a self-disciplined student that communicates effectively.
• Responses to questions are not always immediate.
• Less social interaction outside of class.