Massage Therapist Programs in Massachusetts

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Massachusetts

Are you considering a career as a Massage Therapist in Massachusetts? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a certified Massage Therapist, from education requirements to licensure and employment opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change careers, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process.

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Massachusetts

Massachusetts, known for its rich history and cultural landmarks, offers a thriving environment for aspiring Massage Therapists. According to the official state website, Massachusetts is home to a diverse population and a robust healthcare industry. The average salary for Massage Therapists in Massachusetts is approximately $49,860 per year, and the job outlook is promising with a projected growth rate of 21% from 2021 to 2031. For more detailed information, visit the Massage Therapists page on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for Massage Therapy Programs

Before enrolling in a Massage Therapy program in Massachusetts, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites:

• Minimum Age: 18 years old
• Education: High school diploma or equivalency
• Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check
• Medical Status: Some programs may require a medical clearance

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage Therapy programs in Massachusetts typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology: 100 hours
• Pathology: 45 hours
• Kinesiology: 45 hours
• Massage Theory and Techniques: 300 hours
• Business Practices and Ethics: 60 hours
• Clinical or Internship Experience: 100 hours

Programs generally take between 6 months to 2 years to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.

Massage Therapy Programs in Massachusetts

Here are some top local schools offering Massage Therapy programs in Massachusetts:

1. Cortiva Institute – Boston
   • Location: 103 Morse St, Watertown, MA 02472
   • Program: Offers a comprehensive Massage Therapy program with flexible scheduling options.
   • Cost: Approximately $12,000
   • Website: Cortiva Institute
2. Spa Tech Institute – Ipswich
   • Location: 126 High St, Ipswich, MA 01938
   • Program: Known for its holistic approach and strong focus on hands-on training.
   • Cost: Approximately $10,000
   • Website: Spa Tech Institute
3. The Massage School – Boston
   • Location: 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125
   • Program: Offers a well-rounded curriculum with a focus on both Eastern and Western massage techniques.
   • Cost: Approximately $11,000
   • Website: The Massage School

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers a variety of employment opportunities for Massage Therapists. Here are some major employers:

1. Exhale Spa
   • Locations: Boston, Back Bay, and Battery Wharf
   • Specialties: Offers a range of wellness services including massage therapy.
   • Employment Page: Exhale Spa Careers
2. Elements Massage
   • Locations: Multiple locations across Massachusetts including Boston, Cambridge, and Newton
   • Specialties: Focuses on therapeutic massage.
   • Employment Page: Elements Massage Careers
3. Massage Envy
   • Locations: Multiple locations including Boston, Brookline, and Waltham
   • Specialties: Offers a variety of massage and skincare services.
   • Employment Page: Massage Envy Careers

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements

To become a licensed Massage Therapist in Massachusetts, you must meet the following requirements:

• Education: Complete 650 hours of supervised classroom and clinical instruction from an approved school.
• Exams: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) or another national certification examination approved by the Massachusetts Massage Board.
• Liability Insurance: Minimum of $1 million per occurrence and $1 million in aggregate coverage.
• Application Fee: $225
• Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check.
• Good Moral Character: Must demonstrate good moral character.

For more information, visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Massage Therapy.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of Massage Therapy programs in Massachusetts ranges from $10,000 to $15,000. Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. For more information on financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

Licensure Reciprocity

Massachusetts may issue a license without examination if the applicant’s current license from another state meets or exceeds Massachusetts standards. For more information on licensure reciprocity, visit the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Massage Therapy.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Massage Therapist in Massachusetts is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to start. Contact a school today to begin your path toward becoming a certified Massage Therapist.