Due to the growth in public demand for alternative approaches to health, massage therapy is becoming one of the fastest growing segments of natural health care. Year after year, thousands of people are pursuing careers in massage therapy. Before choosing a massage therapy school, it’s a good idea to have a checklist of things to consider.
It pays to do your homework before choosing a massage therapy school. Here are some things you should consider:
1. Is the school in the same area as where you will be living and practising since massage therapy is not regulated the same everywhere?
2. Is the school recognized by the organization which will be providing you with your licensing or registration?
3.Has the school been approved by a credible accreditation agency? If so, this means that the school meets high industry standards and will better prepare students for regional, national or international examinations for licensing purposes.
4. Are you interested in full- or part-time studies? Not every school offers both options.
5. Does the school offer open houses or informational sessions so you can get a sense of what the school has to offer?
6. Can you interview some graduates to get a sense of their experience?
Entrance Requirements
Every massage therapy school will have different entrance requirements, however, most will require a high school diploma or post-secondary education. Some programs may require an interview in order to assess personal qualities and characteristics such as communication and listening skills. Other schools may require prior knowledge or training in certain subject areas such as Sciences, Psychology, Humanities and Business.
Some schools may waive certain entrance requirements when it comes to part-time studies.
Massage therapy classes are offered in both private and community colleges across Canada and the United States. Private colleges offer fast-paced programs that are usually more expensive. Community colleges offer more affordable options at a slower pace of study. Program lengths vary, but they are typically between 600 to 800 hours in length.
Be prepared for more costs than just tuition. Additional expenses may include textbooks, a massage table, professional uniforms and other learning tools and materials.