The amount of education required to become a practicing massage therapist can vary greatly from state to state. In some states with licensing laws that govern the practice of massage, it is actually illegal to practice massage therapy without a license. In other states where regulations are less strict, some might be able to practice massage without any formal education, although they could not call themselves a massage therapist, they would be a regular masseuse. In some states where certification is required, from 300 to 1000 hours of hands on experience are necessary to become certified.
Just as the regulations governing massage vary, so does the depth of massage education programs. Some programs can be completed in a few weeks, while others take up to 2 years. The depth and quality of training also varies from program to program. Some courses might give you just and introduction to the basics of massage therapy, while other formal certificate programs will give you the depth of knowledge and experience needed to be a true master of massage therapy.
Accredited Massage Training
When deciding which massage therapist school is right for you, it’s important to make sure your school of choice is a reputable institution that is currently accredited. Accredited massage schools are governed by the accreditation bureaus, which monitor the schools and programs to ensure that the level of education is at an acceptably high level. If you choose to attend a school or program that isn’t accredited, you take the risk of receiving improper training. The certificate you receive from a an accredited training program will also carry greater weight with employers and clients who will know that you have received the best available training.
The accreditation agency for massage therapy programs is the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA).
Top Massage Schools
Ashworth College
Ashworth offers respected, affordable online degree programs and expert guidance to help you meet your goals while balancing work and family. Now you can get the precise training you need to become the professional you’ve always wanted to be. And you can go as far as your education takes you.
Texas Center for Massage Therapy
Do you want a career that offers the satisfaction of helping people and a work environment that is positive and exciting? With the education you will receive at the Texas Center for Massage Therapy, that career can be yours.
Massage therapy is a flexible and rewarding career in which you not only take care of others – you also take care of yourself! You can work in a resort spa, cruise ship, medical office, sports clinic, destination spa, or a day spa close to home. You can even start your own private practice!
National Massage Therapy Institute
Are you seeking a rewarding new profession or just additional income? A part-time or full-time career as a Massage Therapist may be the solution you are looking for and the National Massage Therapy Institute can provide you with the necessary training to become a successful Massage Therapist in just 9 months!
The National Massage Therapy Institute (NMTI) has a singular focus and passion: professional massage therapy training. The school’s Massage Therapy program has been carefully crafted by local industry experts and aims to produce highly qualified massage therapists to meet the industry’s growing demand.
NMTI is proud to be accredited by COMTA (The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation), an agency listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency and by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). NMTI is also a member of the American Massage Therapy Association and the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, and certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.
Fremont College
At Fremont College, we have experienced teachers who are the leaders of today, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Baltimore School of Massage
Do you want a career that offers the satisfaction of helping people, the ability to earn a good living, and a work environment that is positive and exciting? After as little as seven months at the Baltimore School of Massage York Campus, that career can be yours.
Whether your dream is to work in a medical office, cruise ship, a resort spa, or a day spa or salon close to home, the education you receive at the Baltimore School of Massage York Campus can help get you there.
Globe Education
At Globe University and Minnesota School of Business we prepare students for exciting careers in high-value fields. Imagine getting paid for what you love doing. It all starts with career-based training at any one of our Globe University or Minnesota School of Business campuses. We offer master’s, bachelor’s and associate degrees, diplomas and certificates. Our graduates are prepared for careers in business, health science, technology, legal science and creative media.
Here you will find a dynamic learning environment, with hands-on training that gives you the experience you need to succeed in the real world. We’re committed to helping you succeed, not only in your training, but in your chosen career.
Bryan College
As a leading source of Health & Wellness training for the Northern California area, Bryan College prides itself on being an elite school for career-minded individuals who are committed to their training and future careers. Our goal is to graduate students who have received an excellent education, and who are inspired and confident to step into their new careers as Massage Therapists, Personal Trainers, and Wellness Consultants.
Denver School of Massage Therapy
The Denver School of Massage Therapy (DSMT) trains students for the numerous massage job opportunities in spas, medical settings, cruise ships, or private practices. For over 20 years, the Denver School of Massage Therapy has provided professional massage therapy training programs. DSMT has two campus locations in Westminster and Aurora, Colorado. DSMT has high standards for their programs, and is committed to the highest standards of bodywork education. The Denver School of Massage Therapy is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).
Cortiva Institute - Schools of Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is growing by leaps and bounds and has become a well respected health care profession, yet it remains under recognized for what it has to offer you as a career path. If you’re looking for a vocation that provides a true connection to people, diversity, autonomy, fulfillment, and possibilities, massage therapy may well be the career you’ve been searching for.
Virginia School of Massage
We have been providing high-quality education to the Charlottesville community for more than 18 years. The training you will receive at the Virginia School of Massage will prepare you for fulfilling and financially-rewarding careers that you will love … as a massage therapist or esthetician.
Whether your dream is to work in a medical office, cruise ship, a resort spa, or a day spa or salon close to home, the education you receive at the Virginia School of Massage can help get you there. You can even start your own private practice!