Massage Therapy Certification Curriculum
One class hour is the equivalent of fifty (50) minutes of any one clock hour in which the student participates in a learning activity in the physical presence of a staff member.
Fundamental Theory & Practice of Massage
In both of these courses students are taught the history, theory and practice of various modalities. By the end of the program students will have the ability to give professional quality massages in a variety of settings while addressing a wide range of conditions. 1. In the first semester students receive a basic introduction to Swedish massage which will include: the history of massage; the effects, benefits, indications, and contraindications of massage, hygiene, sanitation, and safety; body mechanics, therapist self-care, how to touch, and joint movements. In the 2nd half of the semester students will take their Swedish skills to a new level in the context of deep tissue massage, chair massage, pre-natal/infant/geriatric massage, sports massage/hydrotherapy, and reiki. 2. The second semester is a trouble-shooting section. Students will be introduced to the clinical massage techniques of trigger point therapy and myofascial massage in order to confidently address various pathologies of the body. During the second half of the semester students are introduced to the Eastern massage theory and techniques of Shiatsu and Thai massage, as well as reflexology, cranialsacral bodywork, and spa treatments. Students end the semester with integrative techniques and a written final exam in preparation for the national test.
Individualized Tutorials/Professional evaluations (40 hours)
In this course students take one-on-one hands-on tutorials with a lead instructor. Students meet with their teachers to give and receive a massage four times per semester. During these sessions the teacher establishes a supportive and instructive relationship with the intention of answering questions, giving feedback, and providing specific suggestions to improve the student’s massage skills.
Professional Ethics (10 hours)
The first week of classes will be an orientation week dedicated to professional ethics and the NC rules and laws governing massage and bodywork therapists.
Fundamental Theory & Practice of Massage
and Bodywork Therapy 1 & 2 (286 Hours)
In both of these courses students are taught the history, theory and practice of various modalities. By the end of the program students will have the ability to give professional quality massages in a variety of settings while addressing a wide range of conditions. 1. In the first semester students receive a basic introduction to Swedish massage which will include: the history of massage; the effects, benefits, indications, and contraindications of massage, hygiene, sanitation, and safety; body mechanics, therapist self-care, how to touch, and joint movements. In the 2nd half of the semester students will take their Swedish skills to a new level in the context of deep tissue massage, chair massage, pre-natal/infant/geriatric massage, sports massage/hydrotherapy, and reiki. 2. The second semester is a trouble-shooting section. Students will be introduced to the clinical massage techniques of trigger point therapy and myofascial massage in order to confidently address various pathologies of the body. During the second half of the semester students are introduced to the Eastern massage theory and techniques of Shiatsu and Thai massage, as well as reflexology, cranialsacral bodywork, and spa treatments. Students end the semester with integrative techniques and a written final exam in preparation for the national test.
Western Sciences for Massage (152 hours)
In these courses students explore the structure, function, and pathology of every system in the human body from a Western perspective, with particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal system. The courses will parallel the Fundamental Theory & Practice of Massage and Bodywork Therapy and provide students with crucial information to understand and apply the massage techniques they are learning. These courses are highly experiential and include the use of lecture, discussion, palpation, yoga and movement, and case studies.Energetic Anatomy (60 hours)
This topic wll be covered in the following courses: Fundamentals of Energy Anatomy, Mindfulness, and Yoga. Here students focus on energetic models of human anatomy including: the meridian system, acupressure points, the chakra system, and subtle energy layers of the body. Students will gain first hand experience of these energy systems through yoga, meditation, and palpation.Somatic Psychology (24 hours)
This creative and informative course highlights elements of body-centered psychology including dynamics of client/therapist relationship, communication skills, and boundary functions.Business Practices and Marketing (28 hours)
This part of the program prepares students for the business aspects of a career in massage therapy. Topics include: record-keeping, marketing strategies, job search, taxes, contracts, professional organizations, strategic planning and goal setting.Supervised Student Clinic (50 hours)
At the end of each semester the school opens its doors to the public for a five-day supervised student clinic. This gives students an opportunity to test their skills in a supportive, clinical environment.
