Overview
Massage Therapy has become integral to conventional healthcare, complementary healthcare and alternative healthcare environments. Massage Therapy is frequently used in sports medicine, hospitals, physical therapy, physicians’ offices, as well as in chiropractic offices, spa/resort settings, gyms and acupuncture clinics. The Massage Therapy Certificate also complements the Spa and Wellness Management Certificate, offering students the opportunity to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to transition into management positions in the spa and wellness industry.
Our curriculum is approved by the State of New Hampshire Massage Therapy Board, The National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and by the State of New Hampshire Department of Education, Post-Secondary Education Division.
Upon successful completion, students will be prepared to take the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx), which is required by the state of New Hampshire and many other states for licensure.
The Massage Therapy Certificate program is designed to be completed within one year. Students must attend full time to continue in the program. While massage lecture teaches the theory of massage, the lab allows for hands-on practical applications of these concepts as well as proper posture and body mechanics. Students partner with each other to practice proper massage technique.
Why Great Bay?
98% of our graduates have passed the MBLEx licensing exam.
Great Bay provides students with real world experience through our onsite student massage clinic, where the student gains experience in the massage modalities learned in class as well as customer service skills and the details of operating a massage center while fulfilling the required hours for licensure.
The Massage Therapy Certificate Program is approved for funding through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program. This can include up to $6,500 of tuition assistance and $1,500 of support services that can help eliminate various barriers to employment. Learn more about WIOA Funding
Career Options
The Board of Labor Statistics estimates that the number of jobs in Massage Therapy will increase 21 percent through 2029.
Highlight Statistic(s)
For more information about graduation rates, loan repayment rates, and post enrollment earnings about this institution and other post secondary institutions please click here.
Program Cost Estimates are for a NH resident student enrolled full-time.
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Total Overall Credits: 37
The Certificate Program is designed to be completed in 3 semesters during the day. Part time attendance is not allowed.
Admissions Criteria
The application preferred deadline is July 1st for the fall semester. After the deadline, applications will be accepted until the program is full.
Massage Therapy Certificate Requirements
Admissions Requirements
1. Complete an application to the program
2. Provide proof of high school completion or equivalent and submit an official copy of college transcripts (if applicable).
3. Complete placement testing for, and place into, college-level reading.
Clinical/Lab Requirements
After acceptance and prior to the first week of classes, all Massage Therapy students must:
1. Submit a form (provided by the college and completed by your Physician) stating they are in good physical condition and have no contraindications to giving or receiving massage prior to the first day of class. Hepatitis B immunizations are at the discretion of the physician but are highly recommended.
2. Complete a criminal background check using our approved vendor ($25, NH State Police) prior to the first day of class.
3. Possess and maintain professional liability insurance prior to the first week of any class that requires practical demonstration. Insurance is purchased through the college at the Welcome Center ($20/school year).
4. Possess and maintain certification in adult/infant/child CPR and First Aid prior to clinical assignments.
Program Outcomes
Graduates from the Massage Therapy program will be able to:
• Demonstrate a full body massage designed specifically for the client.
• Identify major muscles and muscle groups.
• Determine if massage is indicated or contraindicated for various conditions.
• Apply the skills learned in a variety of environments.
• Write SOAP notes and explain a treatment plan to the client.
• Develop a business plan and properly apply and interview for jobs.
