About the program

This program aims to promote awareness and understanding of death and how it affects individuals. Courses in the program focus on grief and bereavement issues, communication strategies and religious philosophies of dying and death from the perspective of both the dying and the bereaved. Graduates of this unique program will have the skills and experience to better understand, support and care for those facing or coping with death.

The program is ideal for individuals who work with the terminally ill or their families and for those who provide support or assistance to those affected by death including police officers, teachers, paramedics, social workers and employees in hospitals, hospices and long term care facilities. These courses would also help family, friends and caregivers of the dying or deceased cope with and manage death.

Program information

All courses must be completed within 3 years of acceptance into the program.

Admission requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, OR 19 years of age or older

Note re: admission requirements

Students must be able to receive instruction, respond and research in the English language

Admission procedures

  • Apply at Ontario Colleges - www.ontariocolleges.ca
  • Final selection is made following an assessment of the admission requirements.

Graduate opportunities

For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home

Program outcomes

  • Reflect on personal views, beliefs and experiences of death
  • Describe the role of thanatology and death education in society
  • Discuss contemporary issues and topics related to death and thanatology
  • Explore death and the grief response from a variety of perspectives
  • Identify coping strategies for individuals experiencing grief and loss
  • Identify the benefits of emerging bereavement techniques

Program related resources

Graduation requirements

Students are requiried to successfully complete all courses specified in the Program Design.

Program contact

Continuing Education
Upcoming registrations

Mark your calendar with our registration dates, so you can plan your future.

Winter registration: Opened November 4, 2024
Spring registration: Opens March 17, 2025