How Long Is Massage Therapy School
Massage therapy school can take as little as 5 months to complete, but choosing a school is not always a simple one. All legitimate massage therapy programs will give you the tools you need to get started, but there can be a lot of variation in things like teaching style, the kind of classwork and learning atmosphere that can all have an effect on the speed you learn. These factors will affect different people to varying degrees. It is important that you are aware of what helps you learn, what inhibits your learning so that you can choose a program that will give you the best possible learning experience. You should also learn what you can about any massage school instructors involved with the program. This way you can get an idea of whether or not the program you are considering has experienced, expert massage school instructors for you to learn from. If you choose a good program with qualified and enthusiastic instruction, your chances of timely success through that program are extremely high.
Finding a Massage Therapy Program That Works for You
How Dedicated Are You to Becoming a Massage Therapist?
Do I Need Student Liability Insurance
The short answer is: Yes.
In massage school, part of your education will be performing actual massage therapy on your fellow students and, most likely, on members of the public during portions of your training.
Most massage schools offer student massage clinics, with clients paying rates discounted from what they would pay licensed therapists. These clinics will offer you the chance to practice your skills on and get feedback from real people and represent an invaluable part of your education.
Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are during massage sessions, things happen. You may make a mistake and hurt someone during a massage. A client may have an allergic reaction to an ingredient in your massage oil. Someone may trip and fall as she gets up from your table.
Whether or not what happened is your fault, student liability insurance can protect you in the event that a client decides to sue.
Student liability insurance may be included as part of your tuition and fees check and make sure. If it is not included, you will want to obtain your own student policy. These are typically fairly inexpensive, but offer you protection in the event someone is injured during a session.
For example, Massage Magazine Insurance Plus offers a student policy for $25 that provides coverage for professional liability/malpractice , product liability , and general liability . Other companies offer similar policies.
Professional Accreditations & Recognition
Canadian Massage Therapy Council for Accreditation
The Massage Therapy Program at Humber has been granted official accreditation by the Canadian Massage Therapy Council for Accreditation . View Graduation Requirements. View the Strategic Plan of this program.
Registered Massage Therapist
This program is recognized by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario as meeting the academic requirements for eligibility to write the registration examination. Successful candidates of this examination will be entitled to use the professional designation of Registered Massage Therapist.
Additional requirements may apply.
Note: The requirements for the additional credential are determined by the granting body, which is independent from the College. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements directly from the granting body before enrolling.
Also Check: Baby Massage To Help Sleep
What Sets Us Apart
At NYIM you wont get lost in a sea of anonymous faces. Were a small, tight-knit school who cares about each and every one of our students. People from all walks of life attend NYIM, and we believe that increases everyones learning to the fullest extent. Feel at home with the NYIM family.
- Flexible Schedule We know youre busy and cant drop all of your responsibilities just to attend school. Thats why we work around your schedule providing short morning, noon and night classes.
- Short Time Commitment Complete the program in under one year if youre a full-time student , or in 2 years if youre a part-time student .
- Small Class Sizes Get to know your instructors personally as they guide you through the program. Individualized attention will increase your odds of success.
- Good Industry Relations We stay connected to local massage businesses and are always giving referrals on behalf of our licensed graduates.
- Free Review Classes These classes are provided for students and graduates who are preparing to take the board examination.
- In-Depth Training New York has extensive massage therapy requirements compared to other states. This means youll always be more-than qualified no matter where you go in the U.S.
- Transferable Credits If you decide to continue your schooling you may be able to apply your credits to an associates degree at another college.
How Much Does Massage Therapy School Cost
Tuition costs vary depending on location, hours required by the state, and inclusions in the cost.
Schools located in or near metropolitan cities will generally cost more than schools in the suburbs or less urban areas.
A school in New York requiring 1000 hours of instruction will necessarily cost more than a school in Maryland requiring almost half that length of training period.
Considering that the cost of conducting business in New York will be higher, too, the difference in tuition will be significantly huge.
Some schools also require packaged costing that cover not only tuition, but also books, uniforms and supplies.
On the average, schools that run on a 500-hour to 600-hour training period costs from $6,000 to $10,000 for tuition, books and supplies.
Recommended Reading: How To Become A Massage Therapist In Washington State
Massage Therapist Duties & Responsibilities
While massage therapy does not require as much training and expertise as other medical professions, it is an important field in healthcare. Muscle tension can be responsible for many injuries, and qualified massage therapists can find where that tension exists and relieve it to prevent more serious injuries. A massage therapists duties include:
- Collaborating with clients on stress and pain in order to create a treatment plan
- Assisting doctors and/or chiropractors in a patients physical therapy or recovery from injury
- Exercising sensitivity to a clients medical history and injuries while using massage to relieve pain and tension
- Coaching clients on proper exercise, stretch, and relaxation techniques
- Properly documenting all treatments
- Maintaining treatment records
- Recognizing health issues that need a referral to another healthcare provider
As a massage therapist, you will work extensively with your hands to locate stress and injuries. Knowing which parts of the muscles to target, as well as the appropriate amount of pressure to place on those parts comes with experience and training.
Q What Is The Average Salary For A Massage Therapist
The average salary for a Massage Therapist in the United States is around $51,000 a year.
People who decide to have their own business will likely make less money, to begin with, as their client base starts to grow they can make more money.
People with certification or specializations can make more money as well.
Those that have worked as a Massage Therapist for many years can expect to make around $60,000 a year.
Don’t Miss: Massage Close To My House
Enrolling In A Massage Therapy School
Admission to massage therapy school is straightforward. Before you can enroll, you will need to apply and meet the following common requirements:
- Have a high school diploma
- Submit official transcripts for any college coursework completed
- Pass a criminal background check
- Have a cumulative grade point average over 2.0
- Meet all other qualifications, based on the school
Spa Massage Practitioner Program
Intake Dates: January, May, September
Program Length: 8 months
Admission Requirements: High school diploma, successful interview with administration
Program Schedule Options:
- Weekends
- Evenings
- Daytime
Course Description: The Spa Massage Practitioner program is a prerequisite for entry to the second year Massage Therapy program. The program provides students with the knowledge to provide a safe and ethical one-hour relaxation massage using a variety of Swedish Massage techniques. Students will also be introduced to Case History, Anatomy, Physiology, Medical Terminology and Hydrotherapy. Graduates of the SMP program have the ability to work independently or as an employee at spas, resorts or cruise ships. Upon completion of this program, graduates may obtain associate or student memberships with the associations listed below.
ACMT programs are recognized by the following Canadian Registered Massage Therapy Associations.
Canadian Massage and Manual Osteopathic Therapists Association
Massage Therapist Association of Alberta
Natural Health Practitioners of Canada
You May Like: Ultra Luxury Zero Gravity Massage Chair
Massage Therapist Job Growth Salary & Outlook
Massage therapists face good starting salaries and a phenomenal career growth rate.
The median annual salary for massage therapists in 2018 was $41,420 and the field is expected to grow by 26% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average rate.
Moreover, massage therapy offers a very flexible job environment on account of the per-client nature of the work and the fact that many professionals are self-employed.
Here’s The Greatest Part
First, depending on your state, there are various grants available to help reduce your tuition. Then, your local Hand & Stone will pay up to $3,000 in scholarships . With grants and the scholarship, you pay a fraction of the normal cost of massage school.
Our school partners have great financing plans available with as little as $200 down and less than $80 for the first 9 months.*
Finally, consider the average starting Massage Therapist at Hand & Stone makes between $20-$25 per service, plus tips. Plus, there is additional earning potential from enhancements, product sales, and bonus contests. All of this makes massage therapy an immediately rewarding career. And through this unique program you will discover the fastest, least costly and most convenient way to join this rewarding new career in one of healthcare’s fastest growing professions.
To learn more and apply, or fill out the form below.
All training is via a 3rd party school not affiliated with our location, we provide scholarships and job opportunities only.
*For those who qualify. Payments increase to about $250 after 9 months, but you will be licensed and making the money or scholarship amount to pay it off quickly.
Also Check: Hand And Stone Massage Keystone
Preparing For Your Massage License
The full requirements for obtaining massage therapy licensing vary by state and may include:
- Passing the federal Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam
- State licensing exams
- A minimum number of training hours
- Payment of a fee
- Some states, like Florida, require board certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork .
Most states massage therapy licenses are only valid for a period of time, such as two years, after which you must renew the license in order to keep practicing in that state. In many states, you must also complete continuing education hours as a condition of license renewal.
Passing your examswhether the MBLEx or another exam in the massage therapy field, including some for board certificationcan be a source of anxiety for many prospective massage therapists. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help with test prep. For example, popular apps that help massage therapy students study for their required exams include:
American Massage Therapy Association Massage Exam AppPrepares students for the MBLEx exam with practice questions.
The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork administers a voluntary board certification exam called the BCETMB, which shows advanced standing among massage professionals and is required for graduate students in some states.
Does The School Offer A Variety Of Electives To Explore Various Massage Techniques
Massage therapy has hundreds of possible modalities, or types of massage specializations. Though no single program can cover them all, youll benefit from a program that exposes you to a wide variety of them.
The more opportunities you have to experiment with different modalities, the more prepared youll be to create the kind of career path thats right for you.
For instance, at NWHSU, we empower students to personalize their program by offering a wide range of electives. Sport massage, energy medicine, reflexology, trauma-informed healthcare, craniosacral therapythese are just some examples.
Read Also: Innovative Vending Solutions Massage Chairs
Comply With A Background Check
The State of Illinois requires fingerprint-based background checks in order to receive a massage therapist license. Fingerprints must be taken 60 days prior to exam application submission and should be made electronically through a licensed vendor.
Out-of-state applicants may have their fingerprints made on traditional cards from the Illinois State Police.
Specialize In Areas That Fit With Your Interests
As a massage therapist, you can develop a specialization path that allows you to focus on specific client types. Pregnant women, children, cancer patients, seniors, hospice patients, veterans, athletesthese are just a handful of examples.
Watch former NWHSU student Janet Kadlec describe her work as a massage therapist at a hospice.
Also Check: Massage Envy Stone Mountain Ga
Research The Program That Is Right For You
Schools for massage therapy can be found in all provinces across Canada. Before choosing a school, you have probably wondered how much it costs to become a massage therapist.
Robertson College offers the Massage Therapy program at the Winnipeg and Calgary campuses. The right program for you can depend on several factors such as where you live, the beginning and end date, tuition costs, and the program itself.
Once I Graduate What Do I Need To Practice Massage Therapy Legally
Graduating from massage therapy school is just the beginning. To practice legally, youll need to get licensed in any state in which you will practice.
The first step to licensure is to graduate from an accredited massage therapy school with at least the minimum number of hours your state requires. For example, the state of Illinois requires graduation from a program of at least 600 hours, whereas Florida requires a minimum 500-hour program.
Once you graduate, you will have to take and pass the MBLEx, or whatever exam your state mandates.
Once you pass your licensing exam, you will submit an application and pay a licensing fee to your states massage therapy board, or whichever government entity handles massage licensing in your state. Most states also require fingerprinting or a criminal background check many also require you to carry professional liability insurance, which will protect you from financial loss in the event that you are sued by a client. See our Massage Liability Insurance Resource Center for helpful information on choosing a policy.
For full, detailed licensing requirements, you will need to consult the website of the massage therapy board of the state in which you want to practice.
Read Also: What Is A Massage Therapist Called
Massage Therapy Is One Of The Oldest Medical Traditions In The World
Massage therapy is one of the oldest medical traditions in the world China, India, Japan, Korea, Egypt, Rome, Greece and Mesopotamia all present evidence of massage being used thousands of years ago for health purposes, with each using massage in a slightly different way.
In China, for example, acupuncture massage uses extremely thin needles to hit pressure points on your body to release pain and tension. And one of Indias most famous massage techniques, the head massage, is used not only to reduce stress but to improve joint mobility as relaxing muscles in the head, neck and shoulders has a positive impact on the rest of your body.
These treatments are often still used today and will likely be on the lesson plan as you learn how to become a massage therapist. Keep reading to find out all the necessary steps to launch your massage therapy career.
Learn About The Career And Establish Goals
Massage Therapy is a great career path, but there are some important choices to make before entering the field. You dont have to have it all figured out beforehand, but its important to have goals.
Start by asking yourself what type of massage would you like to learn. There are dozens of different modalitiesincluding deep tissue, sports, Swedish and trigger point. Most Massage Therapists practice several, but only specialize in a few. Typically, youll learn many different styles during a Massage Therapy training program, so you dont have to know yet.
Then, ask yourself if you want to work as a solo practitioner, or for an established spa or massage business? While many Massage Therapists are self-employed, most began their careers as an employee for a couple of years. If you have aspirations of starting your own business, youll want to pick a career training program that emphasizes entrepreneurship.
Start considering these options before you enter a program so you can make sure youll learn what you need to achieve your goals.
Recommended Reading: Lymphatic Drainage Massage Salt Lake City
Attend And Graduate From A Board
Currently, massage therapy is licensed in North Carolina and regulated by The North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy. To become a massage therapist in North Carolina, you have to complete at least 500 hours at a board-approved massage therapy school. Different schools offer programs ranging from 6 to 12 months, depending on if you choose to go full-time or part-time. When I was in massage school, it was a six-month program, Monday-Thursday, and cost $5000. Today it’s a lot more expensive, ranging from $8,500-$15,000 for tuition, which may or may not include books and supplies. There are grants and scholarships you can apply for, and if you are military or a military spouse, the Post 9/11 GI billwill pay for massage therapy tuition and supporting fees at an eligible school. So there are options out there to help pay for tuition, you just need to look.
Is Massage Therapy Hard To Learn
Massage therapy training programs may vary in content and focus, but the following subjects are typically taught and generally included in the curriculum:
- History of Massage Therapy
Lectures are usually provided by resource persons, professors and practitioners.
Hands-on practice and supervised training are integrated in the program to give the students a realistic simulation of the actual work and prepare them for the licensure.
You May Like: Massage For Osteoarthritis Of The Knee