Certificate
This program equips graduates with the essential skills and knowledge to practice as Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs). Graduates acquire a deep understanding of medical terminology as well as the anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology of the human body. The program emphasizes practical, hands-on training in a diverse range of massage modalities, including Swedish, deep tissue, chair massage, sports massage, trigger point therapy and myofascial release techniques. Graduates learn proper assessment, documentation and treatment planning to address client needs. They are also prepared for the business of massage therapy, with coursework covering professional practices, effective communication, ethics and marketing strategies. Additionally, graduates of the program gain certification in Basic Life Support (BLS).
The program meets the Pennsylvania Board of Massage Therapy’s requirement of 600 clock hours of curriculum content. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates qualify to sit for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx). Those who pass the exam can then apply for licensure as a Massage Therapist in Pennsylvania. Students with previous coursework in healthcare and sciences have the option to complete the certificate in an accelerated format by demonstrating proficiency in prior coursework. Applicants already licensed as Physical Therapists (PT), Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA), Athletic Trainers (LAT,ATC), or Registered Nurses (RN) may qualify for advanced standing in the program.
Licensed massage therapists can pursue careers as independent contractors or employees across diverse health-related settings, including pain management clinics, wellness retreats, hospices, medical facilities, orthopedic centers, physical therapy clinics and chiropractic offices. Licensed therapists may also find employment in athletic clubs, resorts, spas, yoga centers, golf resorts and country clubs, beauty salons, dance studios and on cruise ships.
Enrollment is limited due to lab size and other factors. Prospective students must submit a separate application to the program. A strong foundation in high school science courses is recommended, or applicants should seek to develop these skills before admission. Applicants must complete or test out of MAT-080, CRE-070 and ENG-090. A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required for both admission to and continuation in the program.
All applicable credits earned from other schools must be transferred in to CCAC to appear on one transcript which is sent to the Pennsylvania State Board of Massage Therapy upon graduation.
Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will:
- Perform professional and therapeutic massage sessions safely and competently utilizing appropriate modalities for client conditions, needs and goals.
- Demonstrate professional communication skills, cultural sensitivity and ethics to effectively build therapeutic relationships, provide client-centered care and collaborate with diverse populations and interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
- Conduct thorough client assessments, formulate customized treatment plans utilizing medical terminology and documentation standards and apply evidence-based massage therapy practices within the scope of practice.
- Implement strategies for self-care, personal health, wellness, business management and successful practice as a prepared entry-level massage therapist.
CCAC is an Assigned School with the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). Graduates who become licensed in massage therapy meet the educational requirements to be eligible for the Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB).
Because certification and licensing requirements vary by state, students who plan to relocate after graduation are encouraged to verify the educational requirements in states other than Pennsylvania.
Please note that a criminal record may impact a graduate’s eligibility to take the licensure examination or obtain state licensure. A majority of the states require a license to practice massage therapy.
Applicants are required to submit a criminal background check and child abuse clearance as part of the acceptance process.
See Massage Therapist Program for more information.