Massage Therapist Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Becoming a Massage Therapist in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Why Become a Massage Therapist in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful parks, thriving arts scene, and friendly community. As the largest city in South Dakota, Sioux Falls offers numerous opportunities for aspiring massage therapists. The city’s official website, Sioux Falls, provides a wealth of information about local attractions and amenities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for massage therapists was $46,910 in 2022, with a projected job growth of 21% from 2021 to 2031. This positive job outlook makes Sioux Falls an excellent place to start your career in massage therapy. For more detailed information on job outlook, visit the BLS Massage Therapists page.

Massage Therapy Training Programs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

If you’re looking to become a massage therapist in Sioux Falls, you’ll need to complete a state-approved training program. Here are three local schools offering massage therapy programs:

1. Southeast Technical College
   • Location: Sioux Falls, SD
   • Program: Massage Therapy Diploma
   • Description: Southeast Technical College offers a comprehensive massage therapy program that includes 750 hours of training. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and various massage techniques.
   • Website: Southeast Technical College Massage Therapy Program
2. Stewart School
   • Location: Sioux Falls, SD
   • Program: Massage Therapy Program
   • Description: Stewart School provides a 750-hour massage therapy program accredited by COMTA. The program includes hands-on training in Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and other modalities.
   • Website: Stewart School Massage Therapy Program
3. Globe University
   • Location: Sioux Falls, SD
   • Program: Massage Therapy Associate Degree
   • Description: Globe University offers an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy, which includes 900 hours of training. The program focuses on therapeutic massage techniques and business practices.
   • Website: Globe University Massage Therapy Program

Typical Program Curriculum

Massage therapy programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Here’s what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, and ethics.
• Massage Techniques: Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and other modalities.
• Hands-On Training: Supervised clinical practice to develop practical skills.
• Specializations: Some programs offer specializations in areas like prenatal massage, reflexology, or medical massage.
• Duration: Programs usually range from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the level of certification or degree.

Massage Therapy Employment Opportunities in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls boasts several spas, wellness centers, and healthcare facilities that employ massage therapists. Here are a few notable employers:

1. Radiance Day Spa
   • Location: Downtown Sioux Falls
   • Description: Radiance Day Spa offers a range of services, including therapeutic massage, facials, and body treatments. They frequently hire licensed massage therapists.
   • Website: Radiance Day Spa Employment
2. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
   • Location: Central Sioux Falls
   • Description: Avera McKennan is a leading healthcare facility that provides integrative medicine services, including massage therapy.
   • Website: Avera McKennan Careers
3. Sanford Health
   • Location: Various locations in Sioux Falls
   • Description: Sanford Health is one of the largest health systems in the region, offering massage therapy services as part of their holistic care approach.
   • Website: Sanford Health Careers

Massage Therapy Licensure Requirements in South Dakota

To become a licensed massage therapist in Sioux Falls, SD, you must meet the following requirements:

• Education and Training: Graduate from a state-approved massage therapy school with a minimum of 500 hours of training. The school must be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, such as COMTA or NACMB.
• National Certification: Obtain national certification through the NCBTMB by passing the MBLEx. While not required, this certification is highly recommended.
• State Licensure: Obtain a massage therapy license from the South Dakota Department of Health, Board of Massage Therapy. This includes passing a background check and paying a $150 licensure fee.
• Local Requirements: Sioux Falls does not have specific requirements for massage therapists, but you may need a business license to operate.
• Continuing Education: Complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain state licensure. The NCBTMB requires 48 hours every 4 years for national certification.

For more information, visit the South Dakota Department of Health, Board of Massage Therapy.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a massage therapist in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. With excellent training programs and a positive job outlook, now is the perfect time to start your education. Contact a local school today to learn more about their massage therapy programs and take the first step toward your new career. Your future as a skilled massage therapist awaits!