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Massage Therapy

The Massage Therapy program prepares students to provide manual manipulation, pressure, friction and kneading of the body to maintain wellness or treat alterations in wellness throughout the lifespan.

Coursework includes human anatomy and physiology, pathology, client evaluation, therapeutic massage, pain relief, stress management, ethical/legal issues and business practices. Employment opportunities may be found in massage therapy clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, medical offices, nursing homes, spas, health and sports clubs and private practice.

The 660-contact-hour program is designed to prepare students to sit for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) through classwork and practical hands-on training. Hands-on training is conducted through practice on other Massage Therapy students and a student clinic that is open to the public for therapeutic massage appointments.

Appointments

Passing the MBLEx is necessary to apply to the North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy (NCBMBT) for a license as a massage therapist. The NCBMBT regulates the practice in the state to ensure minimum standards of competency and to protect public health, safety and welfare.

Enrollment requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Submit a copy of a high school diploma, high school equivalency diploma or official or unofficial college transcript
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Meet the English language requirement
  • Attend a pre-enrollment information and interview session

For more information, or to be notified when information sessions are scheduled, email Program Director Nancy Harrell at [email protected].

The program is offered at the Western Wake Campus, at 3434 Kildaire Farm Road in Cary.

Massage Therapy Courses

Massage Therapy Part 1

  • Course ID: MTH-3021C3
  • Overview
  • Course Outline
  • Requirements
  • Intended Audience
  • More Details
Do you like helping people? Are you interested in a rewarding career in health care with excellent employment prospects? Massage therapy may be for you! This course covers concepts basic to the role of the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is on beginning theory and techniques of body work as well as therapeutic touch skills. Upon successful completion, you will be able to apply basic practical massage therapy skills and be prepared to take Massage Therapy Part 2, 3, and 4.

Course Objectives

Describe the purpose of Therapeutic Massage

Discuss the therapeutic role of the Massage Therapist

Incorporate general health and safety principles required for a massage session

Illustrate knowledge of related anatomy and physiology to the application of Massage Therapy

Differentiate related pathologies to the practice of therapeutic massage including recognizing contraindications

Summarize musculoskeletal information for use in massage therapy treatments

Evaluate pathologies for therapeutic massage indications, contraindication and treatment protocols

Summarize the origin, insertion, action and location of muscles


Outline of Instruction

Anatomy & Physiology

Pathology

Kinesiology


Contact Hours

200

CEUs

No

Industry Standard, State or National Certification

Certification

North Carolina Board of Therapeutic Massage and Body work

Website

www.bmbt.org

Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements

This course introduces concepts basic to the role of the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on beginning theory and techniques of bodywork as well as skill in therapeutic touch.


Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to apply basic practical massage therapy skills. Through classwork, and practical hands on experience students will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.



CE or CU Articulation

No

Prerequisites

none

Learning Supplies Needed

Textbooks (TBD), massage table, linens, massage lotion, scrubs

Clinical Site/Special Facilities

n/a

Requirements for Successful Completion

attendanceOverall grade - 70% or better - Final grade is calculated on Homework 20%, Quizzes 20%, Projects 20% and Exams 40%.

Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements

N/A

Intended Audience

Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements:
(1) have a high school diploma or equivalent
(2) is 18 years of age or older
(3) is of good moral character as determined by the Board
(4) demonstrates satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language

Specific Industry or Business Support Needs

Massage Therapist

Wake County Need for Industry Positions

Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in the Wake County and surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.

Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment

Massage Therapist

Related Courses

Course Contact Information

Samantha Bray
919-532-5844
[email protected]

No active courses available at this time.

To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.

Massage Therapy Part 2

  • Course ID: MTH-3021D3
  • Overview
  • Course Outline
  • Requirements
  • Intended Audience
  • More Details
Do you like helping people? Are you interested in a rewarding career in health care with excellent employment prospects? Massage therapy may be for you! This course covers concepts basic to the role of the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is on beginning theory and techniques of body work as well as therapeutic touch skills. Upon successful completion, you will be able to apply basic practical massage therapy skills and be prepared to take Massage Therapy 3 and 4.

Course Objectives

Describe the purpose of Therapeutic Massage

Discuss the therapeutic role of the Massage Therapist

Properly utilize standard equipment and supplies for a basic Swedish massage

Prepare and maintain a therapeutic environment for a professional massage

Utilize proper techniques of asepsis, universal precautions, physical preparation and body mechanics that assure the physical well-being of the Massage Therapist and Client

Incorporate general health and safety principles into the massage session

Construct a basic chair massage sequence

Integrate theories of health, wellness, and relaxation as they relate to the practice of Therapeutic Massage

Organize a basic one-hour Swedish massage using appropriate techniques to include appropriate draping

Organize client intake information to select appropriate massage therapy treatments

Summarize musculoskeletal information for use in deep tissue massage treatment

Demonstrate appropriate body mechanics in the practice of body work modalities

Describe the physiological effects of neuromuscular therapies

Demonstrate the techniques of deep tissue therapy

Implement strategies that promote effective communication with a massage client


Outline of Instruction

Introduction to Massage Therapy and Documentation

Swedish Massage

Chair Massage

Deep Tissue Massage


Contact Hours

200

CEUs

No

Industry Standard, State or National Certification

Certification

North Carolina Board of Therapeutic Massage and Body work

Website

www.bmbt.org

Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements

This course introduces concepts basic to the role of the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on beginning theory and techniques of bodywork as well as skill in therapeutic touch.


Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to apply basic practical massage therapy skills. Through classwork, and practical hands on experience students will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.



CE or CU Articulation

No

Prerequisites

none

Learning Supplies Needed

Textbooks (TBD), massage table, linens, massage lotion, scrubs

Clinical Site/Special Facilities

n/a

Requirements for Successful Completion

attendanceOverall grade - 70% or better - Final grade is calculated on Homework 20%, Quizzes 20%, Projects 20% and Exams 40%.

Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements

N/A

Intended Audience

Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements:
(1) have a high school diploma or equivalent
(2) is 18 years of age or older
(3) is of good moral character as determined by the Board
(4) demonstrates satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language

Specific Industry or Business Support Needs

Massage Therapist

Wake County Need for Industry Positions

Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in the Wake County and surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.

Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment

Massage Therapist

Related Courses

Course Contact Information

Samantha Bray
919-532-5844
[email protected]

No active courses available at this time.

To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.

Massage Therapy Part 3

  • Course ID: MTH-3021E3
  • Overview
  • Course Outline
  • Requirements
  • Intended Audience
  • More Details
For students who have successfully completed Massage Therapy Part 1 and Part 2, this course provides an expanded knowledge and skill base for the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on selected therapeutic approaches throughout the lifespan. Upon completion, students should be able to perform entry level therapeutic massage on various populations.

Course Objectives

Apply legal and ethical standards of practice to documentation of therapeutic massage

Implement strategies that promote effective communication with a massage client

Apply the basic concepts of business management to create a modified business plan, including choosing a business entity, marketing, budgeting, and workplace policies

Describe the legal and ethical standards that are required for massage therapists and that regulate the practice of massage therapy


Outline of Instruction

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Psychological Concepts-client communication, boundaries, mind-body connection

Business Practices


Contact Hours

70

CEUs

No

Industry Standard, State or National Certification

Certification

North Carolina Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork

Website

www.bmbt.org

Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements

This course provides an expanded knowledge and skill base for the massage therapist. Emphasis is placed on selected therapeutic approaches with a variety of populations throughout the lifespan.

Upon completion, students should be able to perform entry level therapeutic massage on various populations. Through classwork, and practical hands on experience students will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.


CE or CU Articulation

No

Prerequisites

Massage Therapy Part 1 and Part 2

Learning Supplies Needed

Textbooks (TBD), student clinic uniform, access to massage prep software

Clinical Site/Special Facilities

n/a

Requirements for Successful Completion

attendanceOverall grade - 70% or better - Final grade is calculated on Homework 20%, Quizzes 20%, Projects 20%, and Exams 40%.

Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements

N/A

Intended Audience

Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements:
(1) have a high school diploma or equivalent
(2) is 18 years of age or older
(3) is of good moral character as determined by the Board
(4) demonstrates satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language

Specific Industry or Business Support Needs

Massage Therapist

Wake County Need for Industry Positions

Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in the Wake County and surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.

Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment

Massage Therapist

Related Courses

Course Contact Information

Samantha Bray
919-532-5844
[email protected]

No active courses available at this time.

To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.

Massage Therapy Part 4

  • Course ID: MTH-3021F3
  • Overview
  • Course Outline
  • Requirements
  • Intended Audience
  • More Details
For students who have successfully completed HEA-3021A3 Part I, this course provides an expanded knowledge and skill base for the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on selected therapeutic approaches throughout the lifespan. Upon completion, students should be able to perform entry level therapeutic massage on various populations.

Course Objectives

Demonstrate appropriate body mechanics in the practice of bodywork modalities

Recognize the special needs of clients who have suffered trauma through accidents or illness

Demonstrate the integration of Swedish massage and sports massage theory and practice to various populations

Demonstrate the techniques of prenatal massage

Describe the techniques of active and passive assisted engagement techniques, and apply them

Distinguish theory and practice of complimentary healthcare and bodywork practices such as trigger point, aromatherapy, energetic techniques, myofascial release, and reflexology

Evaluate intake information on a variety of massage clients and recommend treatment plans

Evaluate pathologies for therapeutic massage indications, contraindications, and treatment protocols

Design appropriate treatment based on results from assessment techniques

Formulate treatment plans from health history and assessment information for a variety of individuals with unique needs

Under the supervision of an instructor, perform intake, treatment planning and massage therapy treatments on clients in the student clinic


Outline of Instruction

Sports Massage

Hydrotherapy

Energy Based Modalities and Reflexology

Prenatal Massage

Student Clinic


Contact Hours

190

CEUs

No

Industry Standard, State or National Certification

Certification

North Carolina Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork

Website

www.bmbt.org

Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements

This course provides an expanded knowledge and skill base for the massage therapist. Emphasis is placed on selected therapeutic approaches with a variety of populations throughout the lifespan.

Upon completion, students should be able to perform entry level therapeutic massage on various populations. Through classwork, and practical hands on experience students will be prepared for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam and will have a foundation to practice as an entry-level professional massage therapist.


CE or CU Articulation

No

Prerequisites

Massage Therapy Part 1, 2, and 3

Learning Supplies Needed

Textbooks (TBD), student clinic uniform, access to massage prep software

Clinical Site/Special Facilities

n/a

Requirements for Successful Completion

attendanceOverall grade - 70% or better - Final grade is calculated on Homework 20%, Quizzes 20%, Projects 20%, and Exams 40%.

Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements

N/A

Intended Audience

Those interested in massage therapy who meet the following requirements:
(1) have a high school diploma or equivalent
(2) is 18 years of age or older
(3) is of good moral character as determined by the Board
(4) demonstrates satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language

Specific Industry or Business Support Needs

Massage Therapist

Wake County Need for Industry Positions

Employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists. Numerous employers in the Wake County and surrounding area are continually recruiting for new therapists.

Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment

Massage Therapist

Related Courses

Course Contact Information

Samantha Bray
919-532-5844
[email protected]

No active courses available at this time.

To be notified when this course becomes available, please use Wake Tech's Notify Me service.

Part 1 includes the required science necessary to perform a safe and effective clinical massage. Students learn the structure and function of various body systems, pathologies that would be considered contraindications for massage or would require special administration of massage, and the detailed structure of musculoskeletal structure and how the body moves.

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Pathology
  • Kinesiology

The course involves 200 contact hours. Tuition and fees are $200, and textbooks cost about $175.

Part 2 introduces students to role of the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Beginning theory and techniques of bodywork, as well as skill in therapeutic touch, are emphasized.

  • Massage theory
  • Swedish massage
  • Seated massage
  • Myofascial/neuromuscular massage

The course involves 200 contact hours. Tuition and fees are $200, and textbooks cost about $100.

Part 3 introduces students to the legal, ethical and business aspects of the massage therapy profession.

  • North Carolina Law
  • Ethical principles and the therapeutic relationship
  • Business practices

The course involves 70 contact hours. Tuition and fees are $200, and textbooks cost about $100.

Part 4 provides an expanded knowledge and skill base for the massage therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Selected therapeutic approaches throughout the lifespan are emphasized. Students also complete required hours in clinical practice.

  • Sports massage
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Kinesiology
  • Deep-tissue and trigger-point massage
  • Prenatal and infant massage
  • Geriatric massage
  • Eastern bodywork
  • Business practices
  • MBLEx practice and review

The course involves 190 contact hours. Tuition and fees are $200, and textbooks cost about $100.

Financial assistance available

Don't have enough money to pay for a course? Right now, Wake Tech's Propel program offers scholarships that cover the cost of registration and fees.

NOTE: The Propel Scholarship Application is currently closed and will reopen July 1.

Professional licensure

Wake Tech academic programs (credit and non-credit) that are designed to lead to professional licenses are tied to North Carolina or national certifications. If you intend to pursue professional licenses outside North Carolina once you have completed your academic program at Wake Tech, please refer to the Professional Licensure section of the college's distance education authorization page for additional information.

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