The Center for Death Education offers learning opportunities that help individuals gain a deeper understanding of the dying process, end-of-life care, death, and grief. We believe that education is essential to navigating these experiences, reducing fear and anxiety, and improving overall well-being.

Our classes offer factual, research-based insights into key theories, studies, and methodologies across thanatology, psychology, gerontology, philosophy, sociology, and medical fields. By enrolling in our classes, you will gain a deeper understanding of death and dying, along with practical skills to support individuals, friends, and families through difficult times. We recognize that discussions about death can be sensitive, and we respect each person’s comfort level. While we encourage open dialogue, we also recognize the value of silent reflection. Our experienced instructors provide thoughtful guidance, creating a supportive environment for learning and meaningful conversation.

Our death education classes offer a safe and supportive space for individuals to learn and reflect. While these classes provide valuable insights, they are not a substitute for professional therapy, legal guidance, or medical advice. Instead, they serve as an educational resource that can complement other forms of support. If you are navigating a personal experience related to death, we encourage you to seek guidance from a licensed professional. For recommendations, please feel free to contact us or visit our Resource page for additional information.

At the Center for Death Education, we believe that education is the key to understanding the physical and emotional experiences surrounding death. Our psychoeducational foundation provides classes that focus on death, the dying process, and grieving. While we encourage sharing stories within a supportive atmosphere, our classes are not intended to substitute professional therapy or provide legal or medical advice.

We understand that everyone's experience with death, dying, and grief is different and we welcome anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one and anyone who expects a loved one to die one day to learn and explore. However, if you are coping with a difficult personal experience, our classes may not be sufficient to address your needs, and we recommend seeking professional counseling. Please contact us for recommendations or visit our resource page for more information.

Taking classes in death education can be beneficial for a variety of reasons. Many people enroll in these classes to learn how to cope with their own experiences with death, dying, and grief. By gaining knowledge and understanding, they become less anxious when thinking or talking about these difficult topics. Additionally, death education can provide insight into what friends, relatives, or others coping with death-related issues may be going through. Professionals can also benefit from these classes, as they will be better equipped to assist those who are struggling with dying or death-related issues. Finally, learning about death, dying, and grieving can be a transformative experience that broadens one's view and understanding of different cultural, religious, and philosophical perspectives. It helps to correct misconceptions and inform about aspects that one may not have been familiar with before. By gaining a deeper understanding of death and its impact on our lives, we can develop a greater appreciation for life and learn how to live more fully. Overall, death education is an essential component of personal growth and development and can bring a greater awareness to life and lived experiences as well as foster closer relationships with friends and loved ones.

Thanatology is a fascinating and complex field that explores the many facets of death and dying. From physical and medical aspects to ethical, cultural, spiritual, sociological, and psychological angles, Thanatology covers a wide range of topics.

The Center for Death Education has a team of highly qualified instructors with advanced degrees in Thanatology, a Ph.D. in their area of expertise, a Medical Degree (M.D.), or relevant skillsets that certify their teaching ability to offer comprehensive courses on these topics. With their extensive knowledge and experience, our instructors are well-equipped to provide an in-depth understanding of death and its many facets.

Instructors at the Center for Death Education have a Master of Science in Thanatology, a Ph.D. in their area of expertise, a Medical Degree (M.D), or a qualifying degree or skill set that certifies teaching ability. Read more about our instructors here.

Our death education classes are open to all individuals aged 13 and above who wish to explore the topics of death and dying, grief and loss. We strive to create a supportive and inquisitive learning environment that is inclusive of all cultures, backgrounds, skill-sets, and beliefs. We understand that everyone's experience with death and dying is unique, and we respect these differences. Our live-streaming Zoom option allows for learners to participate in the conversation at their own pace or just simply listen. Zoom cameras are optional, providing anonymity for those who prefer to learn in private.

It is important to note that while our classes provide a safe and supportive space for exploration of these topics, they are not intended to replace professional therapy or offer legal or medical advice. If you are coping with a difficult personal experience, please contact us for recommendations in locating the appropriate support or visit our resource page for more information.

We offer a variety of classes that cover different aspects of death education, with the option to purchase single-subject classes or a package of 4 or 8 classes for a comprehensive experience. Each class is 1.5 hours long and includes time for open discussions and questions. If you opt for the single-subject classes, you have the flexibility to choose the order in which you take them. We believe that education is the key to understanding and coping with difficult topics, and we hope our classes provide you with valuable insights and knowledge.

Our classes aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for learners to explore the topic of death, dying, and grieving. We understand that death is a sensitive topic, and our goal is to empower and help you become more comfortable with discussing it with their friends, family, and loved ones. Each class is structured with both lectures and discussions, allowing participants to engage with the material and share their thoughts and experiences. Our classes are offered either live-stream on Zoom or in-person, depending on the format specified during registration. We keep class sizes small to encourage open discussions and promote a deep understanding of the subject matter. Join us as we work towards breaking down barriers around death and grief.

Once you have registered for a class a meeting link will be emailed to you to join the class streamed live over Zoom using your own personal device. During the class, we encourage interaction with the instructor and other learners via camera or chat.  However, cameras are optional providing anonymity for those who prefer to learn in private.

Currently, in-person classes are taught in Wilmington, NC and Seattle, Washington. Wilmington, NC classes and are held at the UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. We are continually adding new locations for in-person classes so please check back often.

We understand that plans change and you may need to cancel or reschedule a class or service. To receive a full refund for any paid class or service, please notify us at least 24 hours before the start time of the class or service. For confirmation of identity, please send the cancellation notice from your registered email address to contactus@centerfordeathed.org. In the event that you need to cancel your attendance within 24 hours of the class start time, we offer the option for you to receive a credit towards attending a future class, within 3 months. However, please note that we are unable to provide a refund or credit if no notification is received and the class has already started.