Massage Therapist Programs in Saint Paul, Minnesota

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Saint Paul, Minnesota

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Saint Paul

Saint Paul, the capital city of Minnesota, is a vibrant and culturally rich location, known for its historic architecture, scenic parks, and thriving arts scene. With a growing demand for wellness services, becoming a massage therapist in Saint Paul offers a rewarding career path. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for massage therapists is expected to grow by 21% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The average salary for massage therapists in Minnesota is approximately $47,000 annually.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Saint Paul, Minnesota

Saint Paul offers several reputable massage therapy programs to help you start your career. Here are three local schools providing comprehensive training:

1. Saint Paul College
   • Program: Massage Therapy AAS Degree
   • Description: Saint Paul College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Massage Therapy. The program includes courses in anatomy, physiology, and various massage techniques. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical practice.
   • Link: Saint Paul College Massage Therapy Program
2. Northwestern Health Sciences University
   • Program: Massage Therapy Certificate
   • Description: Located in nearby Bloomington, Northwestern Health Sciences University offers a comprehensive Massage Therapy Certificate program. The curriculum covers a wide range of massage and bodywork techniques, preparing students for the MBLEx exam.
   • Link: Northwestern Health Sciences University Massage Therapy Program
3. CenterPoint Massage & Shiatsu Therapy School & Clinic
   • Program: Massage Therapy Diploma
   • Description: CenterPoint, located in St. Louis Park, offers a Massage Therapy Diploma program. The school focuses on both Western and Eastern modalities, providing a well-rounded education in massage therapy and bodywork.
   • Link: CenterPoint Massage Therapy Program

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of theoretical and practical courses. Students can expect to study:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its systems.
• Massage Techniques: Learning various massage modalities such as Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage.
• Pathology: Studying diseases and conditions that affect the body.
• Ethics and Business Practices: Preparing for professional practice and business management.
• Clinical Practice: Gaining hands-on experience through supervised clinical hours.

Programs usually range from 500 to 1,000 hours of training, depending on the certification or degree pursued. Specializations such as sports massage or shiatsu may also be available.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Saint Paul

Saint Paul boasts numerous spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists. Here are some notable employers:

1. The Saint Paul Hotel Spa
   • Description: Located in downtown Saint Paul, this luxury hotel spa offers a range of massage services. They frequently seek skilled massage therapists to join their team.
   • Link: The Saint Paul Hotel Spa Careers
2. HealthPartners
   • Description: HealthPartners is a large healthcare organization with facilities throughout the Twin Cities. They offer integrative health services, including massage therapy.
   • Link: HealthPartners Careers
3. Life Time Fitness
   • Description: With multiple locations in the Twin Cities area, Life Time Fitness provides wellness services, including massage therapy, to its members.
   • Link: Life Time Fitness Careers

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in Minnesota

To become a licensed massage therapist in Saint Paul, MN, you must meet both state and local requirements:

State Requirements
– Licensure: Obtain licensure from the Minnesota Board of Massage Therapy.
– Education: Complete a minimum of 500 hours of massage therapy education from an accredited institution.
– Examination: Pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).
– Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA).

Local Requirements (City of Saint Paul)
– Business License: Obtain a City of Saint Paul Business License.
– Zoning Approval: Ensure compliance with the City of Saint Paul’s Zoning Ordinance.

Certifications and Memberships
– National Certification: Consider obtaining certification through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).
– Professional Memberships: Join organizations like the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA).

Continuing Education
– State Requirements: Complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years.
– National Certification: Meet continuing education requirements for national certification, if applicable.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a fulfilling and lucrative opportunity. With a variety of local programs and a supportive community, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a school today to learn more about their massage therapy courses and take the first step towards a rewarding career in bodywork and wellness.