Massage Therapists
One of CNNMoney.com’s top 2 best jobs for the young and restless, massage therapy is rapidly growing field that is expected to increase by 24% over the next 1 years. Massage therapists often have the freedom to be self-employed and are able to work in a variety of environments. Massage therapists are employed by hospitals, fitness centers, nursing homes, shopping malls, resorts, and more. Many massage therapists travel to homes and offices. Regardless of location, massage therapy is a rewarding career that offers independence and flexibility.
A career in massage therapy generally begins with massage school or a massage therapy program. For most states, completion of a massage therapy program is a requirement for practicing massage therapy. With approximately 1,5 massage therapy schools and training programs across the nation, there are plenty of schools to choose from. However, according to the American Massage Therapy Association only approximately 3 of these programs are accredited.
Massage therapy programs are also offered online. Sonoma College, an accredited online college, offers a Massage Therapy Certificate Program that provides a 735 hour Advanced Massage Therapy certificate. Sonoma’s Massage Therapy Program trains students in holistic principles combining both Western and Eastern techniques. Online Massage Therapy Programs such as these provide valuable training and help new massage therapists begin successful careers with a strong foundation.
Well-rounded massage therapy programs provide training on more than massage techniques. After teaching subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology, many programs prepare massage therapists for a career with courses in business, ethics, and accounting. Also, advanced and specialized programs delve deeper into the 8 different types, or modalities, of massage. These courses allow massage therapists to specialize in Swedish massage (provided by 82% of massage therapists), sports massage, deep tissue massage, reflexology, trigger point massage, and neuromuscular massage.
Another mark of a quality massage school is a job placement program. Many massage schools prove the value of their courses by placing their graduates in entry-level jobs, gaining new massage therapists the experience necessary to thrive in their careers.
Once a massage therapist has completed an education program he or she is qualified to take the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCETMB). A passing score on the NCETMB is required by many states.