Massage Therapist Programs in Aurora, Illinois
Becoming a Massage Therapist in Aurora, Illinois
Why Become a Massage Therapist in Aurora
Aurora, Illinois, known as the “City of Lights,” is a vibrant and growing community located just 40 miles west of Chicago. With its rich history, diverse population, and numerous cultural attractions, Aurora is an ideal place to start a career in massage therapy. The city boasts beautiful landmarks such as the Paramount Theatre and the Phillips Park Zoo, making it a great place to live and work.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for massage therapists in Illinois is approximately $47,180 per year, with a projected job growth of 21% from 2021 to 2031. This positive job outlook makes Aurora an attractive location for aspiring massage therapists. For more detailed information, visit the BLS Massage Therapists Job Outlook page.
Massage Therapy Training Programs in Aurora, Illinois
If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Aurora, Illinois, there are several local schools offering comprehensive massage therapy programs:
- Waubonsee Community College
- Location: Sugar Grove, IL (approximately 10 miles from Aurora)
- Program: Waubonsee offers a Massage Therapy Certificate Program that includes both theoretical and hands-on training. The program is designed to prepare students for the MBLEx exam and state licensure.
- Waubonsee Community College Massage Therapy Program
- College of DuPage
- Location: Glen Ellyn, IL (approximately 15 miles from Aurora)
- Program: The College of DuPage provides a comprehensive Massage Therapy Certificate Program accredited by COMTA. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques.
- College of DuPage Massage Therapy Program
- Elgin Community College
- Location: Elgin, IL (approximately 20 miles from Aurora)
- Program: Elgin Community College offers a Massage Therapy Certificate Program that includes extensive hands-on practice and prepares students for the MBLEx exam.
- Elgin Community College Massage Therapy Program
Typical Program Curriculum
Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can expect to take courses in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, and ethics. Practical training often covers various massage techniques such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and sports massage. Programs usually last between 6 months to 1 year, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Some programs may offer specializations in areas like prenatal massage or reflexology.
Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Aurora
Aurora offers a variety of employment opportunities for licensed massage therapists. Here are some major spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities in the area:
- The Spa at the Hotel Arista
- Location: Naperville, IL (approximately 10 miles from Aurora)
- Description: A luxurious spa offering a range of services, including massage therapy. They frequently hire skilled massage therapists.
- The Spa at the Hotel Arista Careers
- Elements Massage
- Location: Naperville, IL (approximately 10 miles from Aurora)
- Description: A well-known massage therapy chain offering various massage services. They have a strong reputation for employing qualified massage therapists.
- Elements Massage Careers
- Rush Copley Medical Center
- Location: Aurora, IL
- Description: A leading healthcare facility in Aurora that offers integrative medicine services, including massage therapy.
- Rush Copley Medical Center Careers
Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Illinois
To become a licensed massage therapist in Aurora, IL, you must meet the following state and local requirements:
State Requirements
- License: Obtain a Massage Therapist License from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
- Education: Graduate from a massage therapy program approved by the National Accrediting Commission for Massage Therapy and Bodywork (NACMB) or the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA).
- Exam: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
- Age: Be at least 18 years old.
- Background Check: Submit to a criminal background check through the Illinois State Police and the FBI.
- Insurance: Maintain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate.
For more information, visit the IDFPR Massage Therapy page.
Local Requirements
- Business License: Obtain a business license from the City of Aurora if you plan to operate a massage therapy business.
- Zoning: Ensure your business location complies with the City of Aurora’s zoning ordinances.
For more details, visit the City of Aurora Business Licenses page.
Certifications
- National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB): Consider obtaining Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB) for additional credentials.
- American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA): Join the AMTA for professional development and networking opportunities.
For more information, visit the NCBTMB and AMTA websites.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Aurora, Illinois, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With a variety of local training programs and a positive job outlook, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion. Contact a local school today to learn more about their massage therapy programs and take the first step towards a new and exciting career.