Career and School Info for Massage Therapists

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Degrees and Schools

There are many postsecondary educational programs for massage therapy. They are frequently offered through vocational schools, community colleges and training schools, and prepare graduates for a certification test called the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB). Some states regulate the practice of massage therapy, and graduation from an approved school or program is required to be able to practice.

Good massage therapy programs are usually accredited through one or more governing bodies such as the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (CMTA) and the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT).

Classes

Coursework for massage therapy students combines class time with hands-on practice of massage techniques. Areas of study usually include:

• anatomy and physiology
• kinesiology (motion and body mechanics)
• business practices and ethics
• specific massage modalities

Online Classes and Programs

Because of the hands-on nature of massage therapy, online programs are not suitable. On-campus programs may offer some courses online for the convenience of students.

Employment Requirements

Some states regulate the practice of massage therapy, requiring graduation from an approved program, passing the National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB), or both. The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards provides licensure that is recognized by some states. A new professional credential that requires knowledge of fewer modalities of massage therapy is increasingly being recognized as well. It can be obtained through a new national certification test offered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).

How to Evaluate Schools

Consider the following when comparing massage therapy programs:

• Career goals - What are the prospective student's career goals? For example, massage therapy can be used for relaxation or rehabilitation - two very different settings. What kinds of clients are desired? What massage therapy modalities appeal most, or are more in demand? Is working in a team environment preferred, or working individually?
• Focus - Does the program provide comprehensive training in the desired massage therapy modalities?
• Class size and experiential learning - Is the student-teacher ratio in the program's classes conducive to learning? What amenities such as internship coordination or job placement are offered by the school?
• Tuition and financial assistance - Does the school help students take advantage of financial assistance options such as grants, scholarships, work study, loans, etc.?
• State approval and accreditation - If the state requires it, has the school been approved and / or accredited through the CMTA or ACCSCT?
• Graduate success - How many of the program's graduates pass the NCETMB (in states that require it)? How many graduates find employment in their field?

Massage Therapist Job Description

Massage therapists practice hands-on therapeutic and preventive medical care to optimize their clients' health and physical performance. Emphasizing the mechanics of bone and muscle, massage therapy is beneficial for people of any age, with differing levels of wellness. Therapists work the body's soft tissue muscles using special techniques to release waste products that cause stiffness and pain, and promote circulation to stimulate regeneration and healing.

A massage therapist may choose to be trained in one or more of 80 kinds of massage therapy including:

• Swedish and Shiatsu
• Trigger point and deep tissue
• Accupressure and lymphedema
• Reflexology and sports massage

Massage therapists often work in places where the human body receives professional care or may need relief, such as:

• Doctor's offices, clinics, hospitals and nursing homes
• Wellness centers, spas, fitness clubs and chiropractic offices
• Hotels, resorts, beauty salons, cruise ships,
• Sports teams and events (amateur and professional)
• On site chair massage in offices, airports, at public events, etc.

They may work from their home or an office, as part of a group practice, at private residences or on-site at companies. The majority of massage therapists work part time. They may travel to several different locations each day.