Master of Science in Thanatology Online at Edgewood College

Though rare in academic study, death and grief a part of every individual’s life and warrants scholarship, respect, and support. In our online thanatology program, we teach just that: how to care for individuals or groups dealing with personal loss.

Tuition: $15,000

Duration: 24 months

Credit hours: 30

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Thanatology: A course of study unlike any other

In the master’s in thanatology online program, you will gain a well-rounded education in the study of dying, death, loss, grief, bereavement, and related topics. By exploring various disciplines and approaches, you will be equipped to support individuals and communities during times of loss and grief. Through evidence-based practices, compassionate care, and breaking societal taboos, graduates of this program make a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing end-of-life experiences and provide vital support to grieving individuals and communities.

You will learn how to effectively support individuals and families during the dying and grieving process, using best practices and current research in the field. With this degree, you will be prepared to work in hospices, hospitals, faith communities, non-profit organizations, grief centers, organ and tissue procurement organizations, funeral homes, academic settings, and consultancy.

Potential career opportunities:

Bereavement program coordinator
Grief support specialist
Hospital bereavement support
Funeral director
Faith community bereavement program development
Healthcare professional
Military and veteran support personnel

Click here for a more in depth understanding of our MS in Thanatology.

Introducing New Certificates in Thanatology

Edgewood College has recently announced an alternative opportunity to learn within the field of Thanatology. You now have the option to enroll in our 100% online, 12-credit post-graduate or post-master’s Thanatology certificate programs. Choose what matters to you – we offer 9 certificates with varying topics that cater to your chosen career field or distinctive calling. For more information on Thanatology certificates, click here to read more.

TUITION

CALENDAR

ADMISSIONS

COURSES

BLOGS

Competitive tuition designed for working adults

We understand finances are an important factor in considering your higher education options. Our online programs are competitively priced and can be paid by the course for added flexibility.

Tuition rates listed apply to the 2023-2024 academic year. More detailed information about tuition and financial aid can be found here.

Program: MS in Thanatology
Per credit hour: $500
Per course: $1,500
Per Program: $15,000

Special Promotion
New students who enroll in the Thanatology program will now receive a one year Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC) membership for free.*

*Offer is for students who are enrolled in the Master’s program (not the certificate programs). Membership will be purchased for the student after the final partial refund day of their first class.

Financial aid
Financial aid is available to those who qualify and who are U.S. citizens. Complete the Free
Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.gov.

Edgewood College Federal School Code: 003848

Contact us:
Phone: 608.663.4300
Fax: 608.663.3495
Email: ecentral@edgewood.edu
Mailing address: 1000 Edgewood College Dr. Madison, WI 53711

Featuring academic scheduling that works for you

Our online programs are designed to fit your schedule. Find your ideal start date below.

16-Week Format

Term	Start Date	Application Deadline
Fall	8/26/24	8/12/24
Spring	1/21/25	1/7/25
Summer	5/19/25	5/5/25

Course registration is due the day before courses begin for each term.

Please review criteria for our online thanatology program

A completed graduate application
Official transcripts reflecting completion of a baccalaureate or more advanced degree from a United States accredited or equivalent post-secondary institution.
At least a 2.75 GPA
A personal essay (500-1,000 words) articulating why the applicant wishes to study thanatology and relevant career goals.

View our thanatology courses

To complete the MS in Thanatology online program, students must complete 30 credit hours of master’s coursework.

View Course List

Take a look into the Program Director’s thought leadership

Click below to read blogs written by Thanatology Program Director, Janet McCord, PhD, FT on varying topics within the Thanatology discipline.

Suicide and the Perfect Storm

How Can I Help Someone Who Seems to be Struggling, or Might be Suicidal?

U.S. Student Graduate Admissions Contact Information

Email: GPS@edgewood.edu

Phone: 608-663-4299

International Student Graduate Admissions Contact Information: powered by upGrad

Email: onlineadmissions@edgewood.edu

Phone (by region):

Europe, Middle East, Africa: +44 1147 007060
Asia Pacific except India: +65 6232 6730
North and South America: +1 240-719-6120
Vietnam: 1900-23-23-06