Massage Therapy, Diploma
Program Overview
The Diploma in Massage Therapy program has been designed to prepare students for an entry-level position in the field of therapeutic massage as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT). The Diploma in Massage Therapy program teaches the art and science of massage therapy focusing on the medical and rehabilitative effects of massage while using sound business practices. 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 Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) offered through The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB).
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 Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) offered through The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and meet requirements within the state
For additional information about the program link to: https://www.ecpi.edu/programs/massage-therapy-diploma. To see the Student Consumer Information link to: https://www.ecpi.edu/student-consumer-services, 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 About ECPI University on the ECPI website.
About Massage Therapy
As a Licensed 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 Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) offered through Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB), as well as abide by current regulations to become licensed within the state/jurisdiction.
Recommended Certifications
Upon completion of the Diploma in Massage Therapy program, students will take the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). After successfully passing the MBLEx, students must apply to the State Board of Nursing for Certification. ECPI University provides vouchers allowing students to take certification exams at a greatly reduced cost. Certification as a Massage Therapist is required for employment.
Program Outline
To receive a Diploma in Massage Therapy, students must earn 21 semester credit hours. The program requires a minimum of 3 semesters, which is equivalent to 10 months or 40 weeks of instruction. The program requirements are as follows:
Program Requirements
Core Curriculum
15.5 semester credit hours
| MED100 | Medical Terminology | 1.5 |
| MTP113 | Swedish Massage | 1.5 |
| MTP117 | Introduction to Massage Therapy | 1.5 |
| MTP118 | Medical Massage | 1.5 |
| MTP119 | Special Populations | 1 |
| MTP120 | Fundamentals of Kinesiology | 1 |
| MTP121 | Musculoskeletal Anatomy I | 1.5 |
| MTP122 | Musculoskeletal Anatomy II | 1.5 |
| MTP209 | Pathophysiology | 1.5 |
| MTP210 | Massage Therapy Clinical | 1 |
| MTP211 | Professional Ethics and Business Practice | 1 |
| MTP212 | Massage Therapy Externship | 1 |
| MTP214 | Exam Prep | 0 |
Arts and Sciences
3 semester credit hours
| BIO106 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 1.5 |
| BIO108 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II | 1.5 |
Self-Integration
2.5 semester credit hours