Exploring Mortuary Science: A Journey of Compassion and Knowledge
The Intersection of Science and Compassion in Mortuary Science
Lisa Roebbelen reflects on her transformative journey in the field of mortuary science, describing it as one of the best phases of her life. As a licensed funeral director, cemetery manager, and embalmer, Roebbelen found her calling nestled in the intricate blend of science, art, and compassion. “The combination of science, art, anatomy, compassion, and ethics all came together in a meaningful way,” she explains.
A Pathway to Education at Cypress College
Roebbelen began her professional journey at a small funeral home. Driven by a desire to deepen her understanding, she discovered the mortuary science program at Cypress College in Orange County. Completing her apprenticeship and earning an associate degree in mortuary science established a solid foundation for her future.
Advancements in Higher Education
Though passionate about advancing her education, Roebbelen faced a gap in accessible bachelor’s programs when searching for relevant degrees within California. However, her alma mater, Cypress College, made strides in 2017 by piloting a Bachelor of Science in Funeral Service program. This initiative became permanent following state legislation introduced in 2021.
Legislative Support for Community Colleges
The enactment of Assembly Bill 927 has heralded new opportunities for community colleges, permitting them to develop and award bachelor’s degrees. Essential guidelines ensure these programs address regional vocational demands and avoid redundancy with existing degrees at California State Universities (CSU) and University of California (UC).
Impacts on Underrepresented Students
Cecilia Rios-Aguilar, professor and department chair at UCLA’s School of Education, highlights the importance of community college bachelor’s degrees for traditionally overlooked student demographics, including lower-income individuals and adult learners. “These degrees create diverse opportunities, not just economically, but in health and civic engagement,” she asserts.
A Return to Cypress College for Advanced Learning
Despite considering out-of-state universities, Roebbelen chose to return to Cypress College for her bachelor’s degree, appreciating the smaller class sizes and affordable education. “I wanted to go back to where I knew I got a solid education before,” she states, emphasizing the profound connections built along the way.
A Rigorous Educational Experience
Pursuing her degree, Roebbelen enjoyed learning from knowledgeable professors and taking courses in science and history. One professor even traveled from Cypress to northern California to assist her with competency exams. “I’m so proud of the amount of information we absorbed,” Roebbelen reflects.
The Enrollment Landscape for Community College Bachelor’s Programs
Cypress College’s Bachelor of Science in Funeral Service is part of a broader initiative with 42 approved bachelor’s degree programs offered by community colleges in California. Programs range across various fields, including healthcare and technology.
Challenges in Expanding Nursing Programs
Despite advances, other initiative proposals—like those for nursing degrees—have faced significant pushback. Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill 1400, which sought to trial nursing programs across community colleges, citing existing competition and potential redundancy with programs at CSU and UC.
Rios-Aguilar notes that the discussions surrounding nursing education highlight the modern labor market’s evolving needs, pointing to bottlenecks and access disparities within existing programs.
A Bright Future Ahead
Roebbelen graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Funeral Services in 2024 and is preparing for the LSAT as she aspires to a career in health equity law, with interests in mortuary law. The skills and insights gained from her education continue to shape her approach to complex emotional situations and ethical considerations in her practice.
Bridging the Gap in Community College Perception
While proud of her achievements in mortuary science, Roebbelen emphasizes that many overlook the value of education at two-year colleges. “It’s a heavy program; I’m proud of getting through it,” she asserts. This sentiment embodies the broader shift towards recognizing the significance and rigor of community college programs in an evolving educational landscape.
The advancements in mortuary science education, exemplified by the growth at Cypress College, highlight a significant shift in the landscape of vocational education in California. With ongoing discussions about education access and legislative support, the path for aspiring professionals continues to expand.
