An online associate degree in massage therapy may prepare students for an entry-level career as a therapeutic massage therapist. In this two-year program, students may learn how to identify all major muscles of the body, apply tissue manipulation techniques, and may also prepare students for state certification examinations. Program coursework may consist of general education requirements as well as core coursework including medical terminology, introduction to massage therapy, and medical massage.

Upon graduation, students may either seek entry-level employment or pursue a bachelor’s degree. Associate-level graduates may gain employment in spas, salons, medical massage therapy clinics, chiropractor clinics, and rehabilitation centers.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 20% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for associate-level massage therapy degree programs may consist of a handful of general education requirements alongside major-specific classes. These classes may teach students how to communicate with clients and evaluate their needs, manipulate muscles and tissue, and guide clients on how to improve their posture and increase relaxation. Core massage therapy courses may include the following:

• Introduction to Massage Therapy
• Medical Terminology
• Musculoskeletal Anatomy
• Medical Massage
• Pathophysiology
• Spa Administration and Techniques
• Professional Ethics and Business Practice

Career Options

Associate-level graduates may pursue employment in massage clinics, wellness centers, resorts, spas, and rehabilitation centers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities as a massage therapist are projected to increase by 20% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Sports Massage Therapist
• Clinical Massage Therapist
• Massage Therapy Technician
• Prenatal Massage Therapist
• Esthetician

Continuing Education

Those who successfully complete an associate degree in massage therapy may wish to continue their studies by transferring their credits to a baccalaureate degree program. A bachelor’s degree in massage therapy may provide increased education pertaining to health science and biomedicine.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook