Programs > The Massage Therapy Program

The Massage Therapy Program

It is the goal of the Massage Therapy Program to assist each student to become fully prepared to enter the field of massage therapy with a firm foundation in basic knowledge and skills. The Massage Therapy Program is designed to foster the development of a competent, confident, self-motivated massage therapist with the ability to act effectively in a variety of client situations.

A caring and helping attitude is a fundamental attribute of our profession. Your intuitive inner sense, so inherent to massage, is developed, reinforced and balanced with the practical scientific studies of anatomy, physiology and kinesiology. You will leave our Institute with the self-confidence to apply massage techniques in a purposeful and focused manner, and with the ability to communicate your knowledge intelligently to your clients and to other health care providers.

Graduates of the Massage Therapy Program may find employment in places such as sports medicine clinics, health clubs, spas, doctors' offices or may elect to work in private practice setting up their own businesses.

Graduates of the Basic Massage Therapist Program may find employment in places such as sports medicine clinics, health clubs, spas, doctors' offices or may elect to work in private practice setting up their own businesses.

This area of study includes a thorough background in massage technique, science and professional studies. Clinical experience and outreach programs provide the opportunity to specialize in a specific unique client population such as athletes or the elderly. Elective courses offer specialization in a particular style of massage therapy.

Graduates of the Massage Therapy Program are qualified to sit for the National Certification Test given by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Other organizations also offer membership and certification.

The Massage Therapist Program prepares each student to enter the field of massage with a firm foundation in basic knowledge and skills. We offer a basic 556 hour program focused on Massage Therapy techniques. This program is offered through C.O.D. and WMTI. The program is designed to foster the development of a competent, confident, self-motivated massage therapist with the ability to act effectively in a variety of client situations.

General Objectives

Graduates of the Massage Therapy Program shall:

Have a practical knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and kinesiology as they relate to the practice of massage therapy.
Be able to combine basic traditional massage techniques and their variations into a logical pattern, performing the sequence with sensitivity, rhythm and flow.
Be able to use adjunct methods to enhance the effects of massage therapy, including hydrotherapy, hot and cold packs, and oils.
Be able to create treatment goals for massage therapy sessions that are appropriate to the symptoms and conditions presented by the client.
Demonstrate critical thinking in all areas of the Massage Therapy Program.
Understand the concept of “wellness” and how massage therapy contributes to the health and wellness of the individual.
Understand the history and philosophy of massage therapy, especially as it relates to present professional, social and political issues.
Understand the principles of ethical behavior, and be able to make ethical professional and business decisions.
Have knowledge of essential business practices including record keeping, marketing and advertising, and pertinent laws.
Have knowledge of basic professional practices including client interviews, client/massage therapist relationship, taking and giving referrals, and appropriate scope of practice.