Therapeutic Massage

The Therapeutic Massage program addresses the theory and hands-on techniques of therapeutic massage. Massage skills include assessment, relaxation massage, therapeutic massage, deep tissue, sports massage, hydrotherapies, applications for special populations including pregnant women, children, geriatrics and the disabled. Anatomy, physiology, disease conditions, pharmacology and their effects on the body alone and during massage applications are studied thoroughly, to promote understanding of massage indications and contraindications. Psychological and emotional issues, legal and ethical aspects, and business development are addressed. The program is designed to prepare you for beginning entry into the massage profession, with an emphasis on working within the wellness community.

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SAMPLE CAREERS IN THIS FIELD
Massage Therapist

DEGREES AVAILABLE
Associate of Applied Science and Technical Certificate. NOTE: The number of credits required for a degree or certification is based on students who are program-ready and does not include non-academic skills courses. Availability of degrees varies by campus. Contact your campus of interest below for more information.

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE CERTIFICATE

TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE IN THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
(Minimum of 45 credit hours)

The Technical Certificate in Therapeutic Massage can be earned on the way to acquiring the Associate of Applied Science degree. Many available jobs require advanced education beyond the high school diploma. Technical Certificate programs provide education in conceptual and technical skills for specific occupations. The program content is designed to develop competency in the comprehension of general and technical skills. Certificate programs require mastery of basic reading, writing, mathematical and quantitative skills.

Completion of the Therapeutic Massage Technical Certificate provides the student in excess of 700 hours of training and preparation to sit for the NCBTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) National Certification Exam. Completion of the AAS degree provides the student in excess of 1000 hours of preparation to sit for the National Certification Exam. Program and Employment Information

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
(Minimum of 60 credit hours)

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree programs are two-year programs that prepare students for careers, career changes and career advancement. Students who need to take longer to complete the degree because of job or family obligations can take the program over a longer period of time. AAS programs may also prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions. These programs offer education in recognized technical areas and specialties with emphasis on analysis, synthesis and evaluation. The program content, which is approximately 30% general education and 70% professional/technical, provides depth and breadth in conceptual and professional/technical skills. The general education courses equip students with the problem solving, communications, scientific and mathematical skills to compete successfully in the job market. Professional/technical courses equip students with the skills to obtain employment and to advance in the workforce.