In order to become a massage therapist in our fast-paced society, where relaxation treatments and techniques are in demand more than ever, see these 13 best massage therapy schools in the world, 2022. Generally, a body massage helps to relieve pain, reduce stress, unwind bound-up muscles and just plain make people feel better. The field of massage therapy continues to expand, offering solid benefits, such as competitive compensation and healthy job growth, as well as a rewarding career in healthcare. According to the U.S. News and World Report ranked massage therapy as #13 on their list of the Best Healthcare Support Jobs. Therefore, to help you advance in your career as a massage therapist, this article will give you insight into the 13 best massage therapy schools in the world and their cost. As well as, vital information on the massage therapy field, why you should study one and massage therapist salary.
What Is Massage Therapy?
Massage Therapy is a healthcare profession in which the practitioner applies manual techniques, and may apply adjunctive therapies, with the intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the client. Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasm, and stress; and to promote health and wellness. Massage therapy improves the functioning of the circulatory, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems and may improve the rate at which the body recovers from injury and illness.
Who Is A Massage Therapist?
Massage therapists are professionals that treat clients by using touch to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body. With their touch, therapists relieve pain, help heal injuries, improve circulation, relieve stress, increase relaxation, and aid in the general wellness of clients. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, these are the duties of massage therapists:
Talking with clients about their symptoms, medical history, and desired resultsEvaluating clients to locate painful or tense areas of the bodyManipulating muscles and other soft tissues of the bodyProviding clients with guidance on stretching, strengthening, overall relaxation, and how to improve their postureDocumenting clients’ conditions and progress
Want to advance your career as a massage therapist? Learn more on How Can I Become A Massage therapist In 2022? Schools, Cost Programs & Salary
Why Study Massage Therapy?
Are you still considering a career as a massage therapist? Here are some of the reasons why you should study massage therapy in any of the best massage therapy schools in the world: A massage therapy career is one that lets you be your own boss. If you are a private practitioner, you have the power to control your schedule practitioner. You can easily choose between full-time or part-time work in a variety of holistic settings. In simple terms, you are in control! If you find fulfillment in rendering help to others, then you are most definitely going to excel and enjoy being a massage therapist. As a massage therapist, you will find career options in various exciting settings and locations. You can work with sports teams and help athletes reach their full potential, own private practice, or work in a luxurious, five-star resort. Basically, potential environments that you could find work in as a massage therapist range from athletic to holistic to professional. Currently, the U.S. News and World Report ranked massage therapy as #13 on their list of the Best Healthcare Support Jobs in 2019.
Job Outlook
Also, according to the US BLS, the employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 22 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. In addition, they also reported that the median annual wage for massage therapists was $41,420 As a massage therapist, you’ll have the ability to create a balance in your life as well as, boost your clients’ moods. NCBI studies on massage therapy have found that on average massage increases levels of serotonin (a neurotransmitter linked to happiness) by 28% and dopamine ( a neurotransmitter involved in motivation and reward) by 31%. Naturally, your clients will appreciate the relaxation, pain relief, and your commitment to helping them improve their health. This, in turn, makes you happy as the masseur or masseuse.
How Long does it take to Study Massage Therapy?
It takes about 7.5 months (30 weeks) to complete a full-time program in massage therapy. In some cases, it can also take about 12 months (24 months) or above to get a certificate in massage therapy training.
The duration, however, depends on either the number of hours or the credit units of the courses.
For instance, it takes as little as 8 months to complete an 800-hour Hands-On Massage Therapy Training at the National Holistic Institute.
Meanwhile, at the National University of Health Sciences, it takes about 1 year to complete a 705-hour certification in the massage therapy program.
However, it takes a longer time to complete a massage therapy program in some schools. For example, it takes about 2 years to complete the massage training program at the OVCMT.
Furthermore, it takes a longer duration to complete a massage therapy program in schools where associate degree programs are offered. At the Canadian College of Massage And Hydrotherapy, it typically takes about 20 months or approximately 2 years to complete a massage therapy program.
How Much Does Massage Therapy Schools Cost?
According to Natural Healers, the cost of the best massage therapy school ranges between $6 to $17 per hour of education, with the average tuition around $9 to $10 per hour. This means that if your state(USA) has no/minimal requirements, you can choose to take a shorter program, which will cost you less in massage therapy tuition. However, most states with massage licensing criteria commonly require between 500-600 hours of massage therapy training. This is equal to a tuition range of between $6,000 and $10,000 for your certificate, depending upon the school and its location. For example, the National University of Health Sciences charges $14,934 for a 705-hour certification Massage Therapy program. Also, some programs include the cost of a massage table (around $500) in their tuition prices, not all do though. You may also like to see the Best Physical Therapy Schools in the World
Are There Massage Therapy Schools Online?
Yes, there are schools that offer online massage therapy programs. Online massage therapy degree programs are definitely a great fit for learners who may need to juggle family responsibilities with education coursework. They can also be a good option for those who are preparing for employment in a new career while still employed in an existing job. However, prospective students are advised to make sure that the programs are approved by recognized accrediting bodies.
Which Bodies Are In Charge Of Accrediting Massage Therapy Programs In Schools?
Currently, there are more persons embracing a career in the massage therapy field. This, in turn, has increased the number of schools offering massage therapy programs. However, to get a license to practice, it is of essence that prospective masseurs and masseuses get certified by accredited massage therapy schools. The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) is a national accrediting agency specifically for the massage therapy field and profession. However, there are also other nationally recognized accrediting agencies that accredit health programs and/or trade schools. Below is a list of bodies in charge of accrediting massage therapy schools both in the USA and in the world:
Are There Massage Therapy Schools In The USA?
The United States of America keeps topping the chart in various sectors including education. In the US, several schools offer massage therapy training programs. According to Wikipedia, Massage started to become popular in the United States in the middle part of the 19th century and was introduced by two New York physicians, George and Charles Taylor, based on Per Henrik Ling’s techniques developed in Sweden. Since then, the massage therapy industry is continuously increasing. Students are advised to attend schools that offer accredited massage therapy programs as all but 6 States require massage therapists to be licensed. The Licensure requires the applicant to receive training at an accredited school and to pass a comprehensive exam. In addition, those states that require licensure also typically require continuing education in massage techniques and in ethics.
The Best Massage Therapy Schools In The World
To effectively rank the best massage therapy schools in the world, we used the following factors.
Accreditation
To get a license to practice, it is of essence that prospective massage therapists get certified by accredited massage therapy schools. With reference to the accrediting bodies listed above, accreditation is an essential factor in our ranking criteria.
Number of Programs
This refers to the number of massage therapy program options each school offers. Basically, massage therapy training programs come in the form of certification (certificate program). This is just extra icing on the cake as most students will love to know the cost of attending their chosen school. Therefore, our ranking was done basically with a focus on accreditation and the number of programs. So, here is a list of the best massage therapy schools in the world:
#1 National Holistic Institute
Tuition: $15,588.00 Number of Programs: 3 National Holistic Institute (NHI) Massage Schools is one of the best massage therapy schools in the nation. In fact, NHI has been a leader in the massage therapy field since 1979. As the first nationally accredited massage therapy school in California, the school is committed to training the best massage therapists in the world while supporting the integrity and positive growth of the massage therapy industry. With ten campuses throughout California, NHI is truly one of the largest and most respected colleges of massage therapy in the nation. Here are some interesting facts about the National Holistic Institute Massage Schools and why you should study here: Furthermore, it takes as little as 8 months to complete an 800-hour Hands-On Massage Therapy Training. On the other hand, it takes about 5.5 months to complete a 450-hour Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program.
Massage Therapy Training ProgramAdvanced Neuromuscular Therapy ProgramContinuing Education Massage Classes
NHI is accredited by the following bodies:
Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET)State of California — California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 United States Department of EducationCalifornia Massage Therapy CouncilAmerican Massage Therapy AssociationForeign Student EligibilityVocational Rehabilitation & Veterans’ BenefitsNational Certification Exam
#2 London School of Massage
Tuition: £1450.00 Number of Programs: 3 The London School of Massage is UK’s Premier School of Massage providing professional diploma massage courses, sports massage courses & postgraduate courses. It is also the UK’s most successful complementary training school committed to excellence in the training, assessment, and practice of professional massage and body therapy. The school offers certificate programs in Massage, Sports Massage, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Mother & Baby Massage, Anatomy & Physiology, Touch for Health- Kinesiology, Thai massage, Ayurveda massage, and CPD courses. Here are some interesting facts about the London School of Massage and why you should study here: At the London School of Massage, each course has a unique duration. Do well to visit the school using the link below.
Massage Therapy Training Certificate ProgramAdvanced Therapeutic Massage ProgramContinuing Education/postgraduate Massage Classes
The London School of Massage is accredited by the following bodies:
ITECVocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT)CThAFederation of Holistic Therapist (FHT)Think TreeInternational Institute For Complementary Therapists (IICT)
Would you love to know more about occupational therapy? Then, read How can I become an Occupational Therapist? Schools, Cost Programs & Salary
#3 Myotherapy College of Utah
Tuition: $13,394 Number of Programs: 2 Since 1987, Myotherapy College of Utah has been offering a comprehensive clinical approach to massage therapy, training over 20 styles and modalities. The school provides smaller and personalized classes to achieve a more personalized training and attention. Upon graduation, students will be qualified to sit for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEX). MBLEX is provided by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) to obtain licensure. Here are some interesting facts about the Myotherapy College of Utah and why you should study here: Typically, it takes about 7.5 months to complete a massage training program. In addition, Myotherapy College is also open to Continuing Education for national re-certification.
Massage Therapy Training ProgramContinuing Education Massage Classes
Myotherapy is accredited by the following bodies:
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
#4 National University of Health Sciences
Tuition: $20.97/hour
Number of Programs: 2
Located in Lombard, Illinois, the National University of Health Sciences is one of the best massage therapy schools in the world. Basically, the massage therapy program at the National University of Health Sciences provides students with extensive hands-on instruction so that they can provide the highest quality of care to your clients.
Here students learn about anatomy and various massage techniques, including sports massage, deep tissue work, Swedish massage, and trigger point therapy. The school also provides introductory and advanced courses in massage techniques and theory, including business and communications skills.
In addition, the National University of Health Sciences doesn’t only offer Massage Therapy Certificate Program but also grant access to Associate of Applied Science in Massage Therapy course.
Furthermore, you can earn your Certification in Massage Therapy in 3 trimesters or just 1 year of convenient evening classes. That is, it takes about 1 year to complete a 705-hour massage program. 84.6% at the state licensure exams.
Here are some interesting facts about the NUHS Massage Progam and why you should study here:
Massage Therapy Training ProgramAssociate of Applied Science Degree in Massage Therapy
NUHS is accredited by the following bodies:
The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA)Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
#5 Miami Dade College
Tuition: Resident – $82.78/hr; Out-of-State – $331.11 Number of Programs: 3 The Miami-Dade College Medical Campus in Miami, Florida, offers a three-track vocational certificate massage therapy program. The associate program is designed for existing physical therapists or physical therapist’s assistants and the transition option is available for other healthcare professionals. With these pathways, students can skip a number of introductory health courses and go directly to basic massage therapy courses. Basically, it takes about 1 year to complete a massage therapy program at the Miami-Dade College Medical Campus. The Medical Campus Massage Therapy Program is a Career Technical Certificate program that offers three tracks:
Generic Option: 25 vocational credits (750 hours)Accelerated Option: 11.5 vocational creditsTransitional Option: 17 vocational credits
The Miami-Dade College Medical Campus is accredited by the following bodies:
Florida Board of Massage TherapySouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Also, see the 15 Best Respiratory Therapist Schools
#6 Cortiva Institute Schools of Massage Therapy
Tuition: $12,587 Number of Programs: 2 Cortiva Institute is a network of massage therapy and skincare schools; all united by a common mission and standards that help students, clients and the community thrive. The school basically provides a comprehensive educational experience that focuses on both the art and science of massage therapy. They also offer continuing education and career services for continued career development and success. Here are some interesting facts about the Cortiva Institute Massage Schools and why you should study here:
Massage Therapy Training ProgramContinuing Education Massage Classes
The Cortiva Institute is accredited by the following bodies:
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA)
#7 Southwest Institutes of Healing Arts
Tuition: $75/36.25hour
Number of Programs: 3
The Arizona Massage School at the Southwest Institutes of Healing Arts offers one of the best massage schools in the USA. SWHI’s mission is to inspire individuals to discover their gifts and graces and support them as they share their talents with the world in a loving and profitable way.
Basically, SWHI offers a customizable massage program where you can choose your specialties and point of interest at your own pace. Also, all their programs make students eligible for national licensing and national certification exams.
Massage Therapy Diploma Programs
Professional Massage Practitioner – 750 HoursMaster Massage Practitioner – 1000 HoursMaster Massage with a Specialty in Natural Aesthetics – 1000 Hours
Associate in Massage Therapy Degree:
Associates of Occupational Studies – Professional Massage Practitioner – 1000+ Hours
Continuing Education The SWIHA is accredited by the following bodies:
Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET)Arizona State Board of Private Postsecondary Education (AZPPSWE)National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)
#8 Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy
Tuition: $30,365 Number of Programs: 2 Founded in 1994, OV College of Massage Therapy is one of the top 10 massage therapy schools in Canada. The school is also the first Nationally Accredited Registered Massage Therapy program in Canada. The massage program comes in two formats: practical (on-hand) and academics (mind) training. During the on-hand training, students get to learn massage theory and practice, hydrotherapy, clinical assessment, sports massage and a lot more. On the other hand, at the mind training, they get to learn anatomy & physiology, musculoskeletal anatomy, communication & ethics, and so on. Here are some interesting facts about the OV College of Massage Therapy and why you should study here: Typically, it takes about 2 years to complete the massage training program at the OVCMT.
Massage Therapy Training Diploma ProgramContinuing Education Massage Classes
The OVCMT is accredited by the following bodies:
Canadian Massage Therapy CouncilPrivate Training Institutions Branch ( PTIB ) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training
You may also like to see the Best Chiropractic Schools in Texas.
#9 Canadian College of Massage And Hydrotherapy, Toronto
Tuition: Domestic Students – $10,294.00 (Year 1); $10,301.00 (Year 2).International Students – $12,480.00 (Year 1); $12,020.00 (Year 2). Number of Programs: 1 Since 1946, the Canadian College of Massage And Hydrotherapy has been providing a first-class education in massage therapy. In fact, it is one of the world’s best massage therapy schools. CCMH, along with its sister school, the West Coast College of Massage Therapy, has a national footprint, with campuses in Ontario, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia. Located in midtown Toronto, this CCMH campus is home to approximately 120 students and over 30 faculty. Also, in addition to academic and practical education, the campus includes a busy Public Intern Clinic that operates 5 days a week. Basically, the school’s renowned mastery-level Massage Therapy Program was designed to build an understanding of the human body through various courses such as anatomy, neurology, pathology, and kinesiology, in addition to 330+ hours of practical clinical training. Here are some interesting facts about the Canadian College of Massage And Hydrotherapy and why you should study here: Typically it takes about 20 months or approximately 2 years to complete a massage therapy program at CCMH. Although, there are options for a 16-month accelerated program.
Massage Therapy Diploma Program
The CCMH is accredited by the following bodies:
Canadian Massage Therapy Council for AccreditationCollege of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO)
#10 New York College of Health Professions
Tuition: $390.00/credit Number of Programs: 1 The New York College of Health Professions School of Massage Therapy Program is one of the best massage schools in the world. The school offers an advanced 72 credit Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) degree program. The massage program offers many currently practiced modalities of massage therapy in addition to its core curriculum of European massage therapy, which is based on standard Western anatomy and physiology and Asian bodywork based on the principles of Oriental medicine. Furthermore, graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the New York State licensing exam, as well as to sit for the National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Here are some interesting facts about the New York College of Health Professions and why you should study here: Typically, the 72-credit recommended course of study for the massage therapy program is designed to be completed in 24 months but can be completed in 20 months as well.
Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) degree program
The New York College of Health Professions School of Massage Therapy is accredited by the following bodies:
New York State Education DepartmentNational Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)New York State Board of Regents and Commissioner of Education
#11 Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN
Tuition: $363.00/credit hour Number of Programs: 3 At Northwestern Health Sciences University, the rigorous massage therapy program explores the art and science of human health and natural, non-invasive, drug-free care. The NWHSU school of massage therapy focuses on the science of massage therapy throughout the curriculum. Courses include anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pathology, and medical terminology, as well as ethics and professionalism, Here are some interesting facts about the Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington and why you should study here: Furthermore, the NHSU Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) or Certificate in Massage Therapy has 3 to 5 trimesters and takes 11½ to 19½ months to complete. On the other hand, the Certificate in Therapeutic Massage has both full-time & part-time schedules and 3 to 4 trimesters. It takes 11½ to 15½ months to complete. Meanwhile, the Certificate in Relaxation Massage with full-time & part-time schedules and 2 to 3 trimesters, takes 7½ to 11½ months to complete.
AAS in Massage TherapyTherapeutic Massage CertificateRelaxation Massage Certificate
The Cortiva Institute is accredited by the following bodies:
Higher Learning CommissionCommission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA)
Do you want to pursue a career in occupational therapy? Then, see these Top 13 Occupational Therapy Programs in Florida
#12 Center For Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy
Tuition: $17,500 Number of Programs: 1 Center For Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy (CNWSMT) is one of the best massage therapy schools in the world. Generally, CNWSMT offers a New York State recognized Massage Therapy training program in three formats: a Full-Time Day Program, a Part-Time Morning Program, and a Part-Time Evening Program. CNWSMT massage therapy program starts at a basic introductory level and progresses to the more advanced techniques that are used in professional practice. Basically, all programs at CNWSMT total 1,020 hours and are in compliance with current New York State Education Department requirements. Here are some interesting facts about the Center For Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy and why you should study here: Furthermore, at CNWSMT, it takes about 9-12 months to complete a full-time massage therapy program. Meanwhile, it takes 14 months to complete a part-time morning massage therapy program and 22 months to complete a part-time evening massage therapy program.
Massage Therapy Program Certificate
The Center For Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy is accredited by the following bodies:
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB)
#13 SOHA Institute
Tuition: Not available
Number of Programs: 1
SOHA Institute is an established massage therapy school in Singapore with over 15 years of experience delivering massage therapy certification and spa massage training programs. Situated at the crossroads of East and West, the school also offers self-care and wellness courses for those interested to learn massage in Singapore.
Basically, SOHA institute includes body massage courses such as reflexology, Chinese meridian massage, holistic massage, Indian Head Massage, Seated Chair Massage and Swedish Massage which are needed to apply for massage license.
In addition, more advanced massage courses like lymphatic drainage, aromatherapy, pre- and post-natal and infant massage are also offered to provide wellness practitioners with mastery in a comprehensive range of skills and treatment modalities.
Also, foreigners attend massage training in Singapore to deepen their understanding of the healing wonders of Asian Bodyworks and experience the positive effects of massage to reduce stress, aid blood circulation, aid in muscle relaxation and improve quality of sleep for self, family members, friends, and associates.
Here are some interesting facts about the SOHA Massage Program and why you should study here:
Massage Therapy Training ProgramContinuing Education Massage Classes
The SOHA is accredited by the following bodies:
Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, ChinaInternational Therapy Examination Council, United KingdomSingapore Workforce Development Agency
Massage therapists are professionals that treat clients by using touch to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body. With their touch, therapists relieve pain, help heal injuries, improve circulation, relieve stress, increase relaxation, and aid in the general wellness of clients.
It takes about 7.5 months (30 weeks) to complete a full-time program in massage therapy. In some cases, it can also take about 12 months (24 months) or above to get a certificate in massage therapy training. The duration, however, depends on either the number of hours or the credit units of the courses.
The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) is a national accrediting agency specifically for the massage therapy field and profession. However, there are also other nationally recognized accrediting agencies that accredit health programs and/or trade schools. They include:Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET) Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) National Accrediting Commission of Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) ITEC Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT) CThA Federation of Holistic Therapist (FHT) ThinkTree International Institute For Complementary Therapists (IICT)
Yes, there are schools that offer online massage therapy programs. However, prospective students are advised to make sure that the programs are approved by recognized accrediting bodies.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for massage therapists was $41,420. That is, they earn $19.92 per hour.
According to Natural Healers, the cost of massage therapy school ranges between $6 to $17 per hour of education, with the average tuition around $9 to $10 per hour.
Here is a list of the best massage therapy schools in the world: National Holistic Institute London School of Massage Myotherapy College of Utah National University of Health Sciences Miami Dade College Cortiva Institute Schools of Massage Therapy Southwest Institutes of Healing Arts Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy Canadian College of Massage And Hydrotherapy New York College of Health Professions Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN Center For Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy SOHA Institute
Conclusion
Basically, everyone loves to get a massage from time to time. As a treatment for body stress or pain, the services of massage therapists have gone on the increase. Hence, making it a promising career.
Furthermore, most schools now offer various massage therapy programs to train world-class masseurs and masseuses.
In other to help you in making a decision, we have provided vital information on the 13 Best Massage Therapy Schools In The World, 2022.
Good Luck And Success!!!
