Massage Therapy, Associate of Applied Science

Program Overview

This program has been designed to prepare students for an entry-level career in therapeutic massage as a Certified Massage Therapist (CMT). The Massage Therapy program teaches the art and science of massage therapy using sound business practices, while also focusing on the medical and rehabilitative effects of massage. An externship course is included where students may work in conjunction or collaboratively with physicians, nurses, chiropractors, medical spas, and physical and occupational therapists to help treat and rehabilitate patients with specific health conditions. Upon program completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam offered through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Body Work.

Program Outcomes

• Graduates will be able to safely assist with the treatment and care of patients while practicing standard precautions and adhering to HIPAA and OSHA guidelines.
• Graduates will be able to identify all major muscles of the body (actions, attachments, and palpation), systems within the body, and the medical terminology associated with massage therapy.
• Graduates will be able to assist with functional restoration through one or more soft tissue manipulation techniques to increase range of motion, flexibility, and stability, provide pain relief, relaxation, or stress reduction.
• Graduates will be able to demonstrate good oral and written communication skills and essential job search skills.
• Program provides comprehensive preparation of graduates to be successful on the National Certification Exam offered through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and meet requirements within the state.

For additional information about the program outcomes, please see the Student Consumer Information (link to: http://www.ecpi.edu/medical/program/massage-therapy-associate-degree/  ) which provides additional information on the future careers, success, cost, and financing for this program. For information on the University Completion and Graduation Rates, please see Information About the University on the ECPI website (link to: http://www.ecpi.edu/services/about-ecpi-university/ )

In 1.5 years, through our year-round schedule, you can earn an Associate of Applied Science in Massage Therapy.

About Massage Therapy

As a Certified Massage Therapist, a vast range of employment opportunities are available. Therapists may own and manage private clinics, or they may secure employment in chiropractic clinics, medical and health centers, spas, private physicians’ offices, nursing homes, professional and amateur sports teams, fitness institutes, and private industry.

Massage therapists must pass the national certification exam administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork as well as abide by current regulations to become certified within the state/jurisdiction

Certified Massage Therapists typically are found in the medical field or in a spa environment. Many work alongside chiropractors, physical therapists, and/or sports trainers. Others are found within spas or massage clinics.

As a Certified Massage Therapist a vast range of employment opportunities are available. A therapist may own and manage private clinics, or secure employment in chiropractic clinics, medical and health centers, spas, private physician offices, nursing homes, professional and amateur sports teams, fitness institutes and private industry.

Recommended Certifications

Upon completion of the program, students will take the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB) exam. ECPI University provides vouchers allowing students to take certification exams at a greatly reduced cost.

Program Outline

To receive the Associate of Applied Science in Massage Therapy, the student must earn 61 semester credit hours. The program requires a minimum of 5 semesters or 18 months of instruction. The program requirements are as follows:

Program Requirements

Core Curriculum

34 semester credit hours

Arts and Sciences

21 semester credit hours

Self Integration and Computer Literacy

6 semester credit hours

There are 1,140 total contact hours in this program