Massage Therapy Certificate

Program Overview

Major ID: 197C

Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

The Massage Therapy Certificate program meets requirements for National Certification as well as professional membership in American Massage Therapy Association and Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals.

Massage Therapists manipulate soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, using techniques such as Swedish Massage, Reflexology, Sports Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release, Lymphatic Drainage, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) and Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) techniques, and Travel Trigger Point Therapy. Graduates of the certificate program integrate manual massage techniques to positively contribute to the wellbeing of the client in a safe and skillful manner.

Career Opportunities

The employment outlook for massage therapists is projected to be better than average in the upcoming years. The increasing population, increasing personal incomes, longer life spans, and an increasing recognition that massage is beneficial to reduce stress, relieve pain, and improve overall health all contribute to an increased demand for these workers. Factors affecting long term growth include economic well-being and the degree to which insurance companies and HMOs will reimburse for this service. Graduates perform massage therapy in health spas, resorts, health clubs, retirement residences, country clubs, hospitals, chiropractic offices, long-term care facilities, and clinics, or may be self-employed.

Licensing or certification exams are independent of graduation requirements.

Program Outcomes

1. Plan and organize an effective massage and bodywork session.
2. Perform massage therapy and bodywork for therapeutic benefit.
3. Develop and implement a self-care strategy.
4. Develop successful and ethical therapeutic relationships with clients.
5. Develop a strategy for a successful practice, business, or employment situation.
6. Identify strategies for professional development.

Program Faculty

Nick Bohrer
nick.bohrer@saintpaul.edu

Jeremy Sartain
jeremy.sartain@saintpaul.edu

Day and Evening Classes

Day and evening options are available to complete the program.

Textbook and Supply Costs

Students should expect to spend approximately $900.00 for books and supplies. (Does not include massage table.) This cost is in addition to tuition and fees.