Massage Therapist

• Massage Therapist education and training requirements vary by state
• In general, they must hold a high school diploma or GED and complete a full- or part-time accredited training program ranging from 500 - 1,000 hours. They don’t need a college degree but do need a certificate or diploma from their training program 
• Massage Therapist training includes both classroom study and hands-on practice of massage techniques
• Common courses include anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology. 38% of Massage Therapists are self-employed so many students study business, too
• There are several different types of massage that therapists can specialize in, such as deep tissue, Swedish, Thai, stone therapy, reflexology, aromatherapy, lymphatic, oncology, trigger point, Shiatsu, sports, and pregnancy and infant massage techniques
• The majority of states require graduated Massage Therapists to obtain a license to work. This usually involves passing either a state-specific exam or the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), managed by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards
• Licensure requirements may also include completing a CPR course, showing proof of liability insurance, and passing a background check. Lastly, there’s usually a need to take continuing education classes every two years to maintain licensure
• Practicing Massage Therapists can boost their credentials through board certification from the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork
• Other massage-related certifications include:
  • American Health Source -
    • Medical Massage Therapy Certification
    • Lymphedema Technician Certification
    • Holistic Health Care Practitioner Certification
    • Scandinavian Mobilization Therapy Certification
    • Practical Acupuncture Safety Certification
  • American Reflexology Certification Board - 
    • National Reflexology Certification - Foot Exam
    • National Reflexology Certification - Hand Exam
  • National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork - Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
  • National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine - Diplomate in Asian Bodywork Therapy
  • Zero Balancing Association - Zero Balancing Certification

• Classes: anatomy, physiology (study of organs and tissues), kinesiology (study of motion and body mechanics), business management, and ethics. 
• Hands-on practice of massage techniques
• Might have internship at hospital or nursing home. 
• Try to find a program that will fit your “style”: Do you want to work with athletes? In a hospital? Or more in spa for relaxation? 

• 17% with HS Diploma
• 15% with Associate’s
• 22.5% with Bachelor’s
• 4.2% with Master’s
• 3.9% with Doctoral

(*% of employees aged 25 to 44 in the occupation whose highest level of educational attainment is)

• Massage Therapists can expect to do hands-on training and practice in various settings. These experiences are invaluable and could lead to full-time jobs after graduation and licensure 
• Consider what type of massage you want to specialize in, based on your interests and where you want to work after graduation
• Along with learning the trade, you must hone your people skills and develop a knack for customer service
• Craft your “work persona” and develop your listening and verbal communication skills
• Watch YouTube tutorials, read blogs, and keep up with what’s new and popular
• Make friends with other Massage Therapists. Keep engaged with your network and help each other
• Learn from your fellow students. Ask questions and be willing to explore new methods
• Study additional treatments such as body scrubs, wraps, and hydrotherapy