How VR Will Change Mortuary Education
When most people think about virtual reality (VR), they picture video games, sci-fi movies, or futuristic tech gadgets. But for most students in mortuary science, VR will become something far more meaningful: a bridge between theory and real-world experience.
Pierce Mortuary Colleges Is Preparing to Launch a VR Embalming Lab Simulator
This is a first-of-its-kind tool designed specifically for students completing their coursework online. For many of these learners, access to a physical preparation room is limited to a small number of in-person clinical experiences throughout their program. That model works, but it doesn’t always give students the space to build confidence before they arrive at a firm.
How Virtual Reality Enhances Embalming Education
This is where VR comes in. Through a headset, tablet, or laptop, students will be able to walk through and interact with a virtual prep room, including handling embalming instruments and completing procedures on randomized case types.
The experience is self-guided but includes checkpoints along the way and a performance recap. It’s not a replacement for in-person training — it’s a way to enhance and extend it.
More Than a New Way to Learn
This technology is more than just a new way to learn; it’s a powerful tool to help students truly understand the art and science of embalming.
VR helps reduce fear and uncertainty students experience when learning a new skill by allowing them to make decisions, respond to case variations, and familiarize themselves with the tools of their trade in a safe environment.
Because students can practice at their own pace, they arrive in real preparation rooms more confident, more prepared, and more capable.
Preparing Students for Work That Matters
In funeral service, we have the honor of caring for members of our communities during their most vulnerable moments. Anything we can do to prepare our students to serve with professionalism, skill, and compassion is worth investing in.
VR is one more way we’re helping students become not just technically proficient, but truly ready to do the work that matters.
The Future of Mortuary Education
The future of mortuary education isn’t just coming. It’s being built right here.
Be ready to experience the future firsthand in our Spring 2026 classes with VR.
Frequently Asked Questions About VR in Mortuary Education
How is VR used in mortuary science education?
VR is used to simulate embalming labs where students can practice procedures, handle instruments, and work through realistic case scenarios in a virtual preparation room.
Is virtual reality replacing in-person embalming labs?
No. VR is designed to enhance, not replace, in-person training by allowing students to build confidence and familiarity before entering a physical prep room.
Who benefits from VR embalming simulations?
Online mortuary science students benefit most, especially those with limited access to physical preparation rooms during their coursework.
Written by: Audrina Dollar
Title: Dean of Curriculum
Published: January 1, 2026