How to Become a Massage Therapist

Massage therapy is a promising and growing profession. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 19 percent employment growth for massage therapists between 2008 and 2018. If you are interested in becoming a massage therapist, now is the time to get started. Depending on the program you choose, you could become a massage therapist in as little as seven months--or take up to18 months to obtain an associate degree in massage therapy.

Generally, a high school degree is required to enroll in a massage therapy program. The necessary training to become a massage therapist can be obtained at private and public colleges, including community colleges.

Classes to become a massage therapist can be grouped into two general blocks: the practical side of actually performing massages and the practical and business aspects of the profession. Classes focused on massage include the following:

• Deep-tissue massage
• Geriatric/respiratory
• Swedish massage
• Sports massage
• Trigger point therapy

The cost of tuition varies greatly, depending on whether you choose a short degree or a longer degree, and whether the program is offered by a private or public institution. Tuition can run from as little as $2,000 up to $40,000. Some programs last two to four semesters, and different programs offer a variety of lengths of study, while others last only seven months.

Medical classes for business skills include body systems, effective communication, nutrition, business practices, kinesiology, anatomy, physiology, ethics and client management.

Have a look at available schools and start your journey toward becoming a message therapist, as soon as you are ready!