Massage Degree - Online and Campus Programs

Do you have good communication skills and enjoy working with people? If so, you already have two of the most important qualities for building a successful career in massage therapy, and building trust with your clients. With more than 80 types of massage, or modalities, you can continue to learn and grow with a career as a massage therapist. Most specialize in more than one modality, with Swedish, trigger point/neuromuscular, deep tissue, sports massage, and Shiatsu being the most commonly practiced.

How to Prepare for a Career as a Massage Professional

Therapeutic massage training requirements vary by state, but massage programs usually require 500 hours or more of study. Programs generally take about one year to complete, even with a part-time class schedule. Some massage programs offer intensive training that takes as little as eight months to complete before earning a massage certificate.

Career Outlook for Massage Therapists

Massage therapists charge an average of $63 for one hour of therapeutic massage, and earn an average of $41.50 an hour (including tip), according to the American Massage Therapy Association. As for work environments, massage therapists often divide their time among several different settings, including:
  • Massage offices
  • Hospitals
  • Wellness centers
  • Nursing homes
  • Chiropractic offices
  • Fitness centers
  • Hotels and resorts
  • Spas
  • Cruise ships
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of massage therapists is expected to increase by almost 20 percent from 2008 to 2018, faster than the average for all occupations.