Certificate   

This program is designed to prepare entry-level skills for students seeking practice as licensed massage therapists.   Graduates complete a course of study that meets or exceeds 600 clock hours of curriculum content. Completion of the program qualifies graduates to apply for a license as a massage therapist in Pennsylvania.  Students with previous coursework in healthcare and sciences have the option to complete the certificate in accelerated format by demonstrating proficiency in prior coursework.

Licensed massage therapists may work as independent contractors or employees in a variety of health-related settings including pain management clinics, wellness retreat centers, hospice facilities, orthopedic centers and physical therapy and chiropractic offices.  Licensed therapists may also be employed in athletic clubs, resorts, spas, yoga centers, golf resorts and country clubs, beauty salons, dance studios and on cruise ships.

Enrollment is limited by lab size and other factors.  Students must make separate application to the program.  Applicants should have a successful record of achievement in high school science courses or develop these skills prior to program admission.  Applicants must be eligible for all college-level courses.

Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will:

1. Plan, organize and perform an effective massage and bodywork session for therapeutic benefit.
2. Display skill in developing professional and ethical relationships with diverse clients and interdisciplinary health care teams.
3. Identify and implement strategies for self-care, personal health and wellness, successful practice, business or employment situations and on-going professional development.
4. Apply evidence-based practices of massage therapy within the scope of practice.

Completion of the program qualifies the graduate to sit for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx).  Students completing more than 750 clock hours of approved courses for this certificate will meet the educational requirements to later sit for the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork.

Because certification and licensing requirements vary by state, students who plan to relocate after graduation are encouraged to verify the educational requirments in states other than Pennsylvania.

A criminal record may affect a graduate’s ability to take the licensure examination or obtain state licensure.  A majority of the states require a license to practice massage therapy.

Applicants must submit a criminal background check for acceptance into the program.

See Massage Therapist Program for more information.