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Massage therapy training in the US

• Massage Therapy Schools: Schools like The Massage School in Massachusetts, or the American Institute of Massage Therapy (AIMT) in California, offer a massage training program perfect for students who are interested in formal certification, with training in different techniques and skills like Deep Tissue and Swedish Massage. The same is true for the Cortiva Institute, which has campuses in different states, including New York, Florida, and Pennsylvania.
• Community colleges and adult education programs: Community colleges like Lane Community College in Eugene, Oregon, or Santa Monica College in California, offer both classroom instruction and clinical experience. Their program includes Swedish massage, deep tissue, anatomy, kinesiology, and various massage modalities. For more affordable programs, the New York City Department of Education – Adult and Continuing Education offers low-budget courses in high schools and training centers. The program is meant for adults who would like to expand their skill set and perhaps pursue a career in massage services.
• Private instruction: Platforms like Superprof make finding a local massage instructor and private local massage lessons easy for students in the US. Superprof offers a vast catalog of classes with professional instructors all across the US. Visit Superprof, type in “Massage Therapy,” followed by your location in the US, and you will have access to an array of local massage classes with local instructors.

What is the cost of a massage training program?

Enrolling in a massage therapy program can be quite expensive, depending on the status of the school or institute, and the prestige and experience of the instructors.

The Massage School in Massachusetts charges $9,500 for tuition for their 650-hour program, while the tuition for the Corvina Institute ranges from $12,000 to $15,000 for a full-time program. Now, on the higher end of prices, we can find the American Institute of Massage Therapy (AIMT), where tuition generally falls between $10,000 and $13,000, depending on the program length and location.

Community colleges and adult education centers are more affordable options. The program at Lane Community College (OR) costs around $8,000, and the program at Santa Monica College in California costs between $4,000–$6,000 for the full program and the complete series of lessons. Finally, the NYC Adult Education offers a massage program that can cost as little as $150–$300 per class. Each of these programs offers valuable skills and techniques, with certified classes that can help you become a massage and bodywork therapist.

Private instruction is the most affordable of them all. The average price on platforms like Superprof is $24/h. Studying with a private instructor can be a great introduction for students who are just starting to learn about deep tissue, the anatomy of the body, and the techniques and skills that massage and professional training require. Learning with a therapist can also be a great way to learn which school or institute is best for the student, especially if they're thinking about obtaining a license, medical, or clinical services, wellness, and much more.

A career in massage therapy in the US

Pursuing a career and becoming a massage therapist in the US can be both fulfilling and flexible. This career is also practical, since most programs take less than a year to complete. Therapists of this kind will work in a spa, clinic, or in a wellness center, but they can also work as independent practitioners, having their own clientele and practice. This will allow for a flexible schedule that not many jobs have.

States like Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and California are considered to be the ones where massage therapists earn more for their work. Cities like San Francisco and Seattle pay more, but only because the cost of living in these cities is higher.

For students who are looking to start their career in this type of training, or adults who are looking to change their career, massage therapy is a relatively quick and very practical path that doesn’t take long to navigate and become certified. It also allows people to provide a service that is all about helping others reduce stress, manage pain, and improve their well-being.

Superprof can help you connect with a professional instructor who can serve as a guide for your journey. Visit Superprof and learn directly from professional, licensed therapists who can help you find the right path for you.