Benefits of Earning a Degree in Massage
Therapy
As the benefits of massage therapy begun
more widely known, jobs for masseuses are expected to grow
at a rate faster than average between now and 2014, according
to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Now is a good time
to work as a massage therapist.
In order to practice as a masseuse, you will likely need
formal training in order to work. The qualifications required
for massage therapists vary from state to state. But as
of 2004, around 33 states regulate the practice of massage
therapy, and many require a combination of formal education
and national certification in order for a person to practice
as a masseuse legally. Some states also demand that massage
therapists keep up with developments in the field by regular
participation in continuing education.
Massage Therapy Education
The benefits of earning a degree in massage
therapy include becoming an expert on the body’s mechanics
and on the subject of running your own business. A basic
massage therapy program will typically include courses like:
• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Organs and tissues
• Kinesiology
• Business
• Ethics
• Practical application of massage techniques
In addition to this basic coursework, most
massage therapy programs offer specialized training in more
than one of the 80 modalities, or massage types, such as:
• Swedish massage
• Deep tissue massage
• Reflexology
• Acupressure
• Sports
• Neuromuscular massage
• Prenatal massage
• Infant massage
• Elderly-persons massage
Massage therapy does not offer much opportunity for advancement.
But the greater your skills, the greater your client base
is likely to be. As demand increases for your services,
so can your fees.
Sources:
BLS.GOV, Massage Therapists
