Explore careers in massage in the United States and Canada. Today, careers in massage are expected to grow faster than average, so career prospects are promising. However, before deciding to pursue a career in massage, it is equally important to receive the appropriate education and training to meet individual state/province requirements for certification and/or licensure.

Why a job in massage?

For starters, the ancient healing art of massage therapy is widely used as a complementary medicine around the world. In addition to its healing properties, massage therapy has been proven to relax and revitalize tired muscles and improve overall well-being. In addition, there are more than 80 types of massage modalities in which one can specialize; so the field is wide open for prospective massage therapists who desire certification in more than just one particular therapy.

For example, typical jobs in massage are available to those who have completed a minimum of 300 hours of basic education (anatomy, physiology, pathology); and training in Swedish massage, deep tissue massage and sports massage. However, in order to become nationally certified and gain more advanced careers in massage therapy, candidates seek courses that provide a minimum of 500 hours of training alongside special instruction in more massage modalities such as acupressure, trigger point, craniosacral therapy, and the like.

What modalities are taught for a career in massage?

That depends on the healing arts school or massage school you enroll in. While the vast majority of massage institutions offer general training in the top three modalities (mentioned above), a growing number of massage therapy careers require professionals to expand their customer service; therefore, educational programs have started offering a wider variety of modalities. Some of the many massage techniques offered to students pursuing a career in massage include Animal Massage (Dog/Horse Massage), Baby Massage, Prenatal Massage, Geriatric Massage, Chair Massage, Tuina, Thai Massage, Reflexology, Trager Therapy, Esalen Massage , cancer massage , lymphatic drainage massage and meridian therapy, among others.

Is Learning Other Therapies Beneficial for a Massage Career?

One of the great aspects of taking massage training is that there are many training opportunities in healing arts schools; apart from traditional massage instruction. For example, a number of holistic schools also offer training in kinesiology (muscle testing), energetic healing (Reiki, chakra balancing, etc.), nutritional counseling, holistic skin care and nutrition, and other relevant topics. Of course, the more you learn, the greater the chance of your professional success.

Are  careers in massage  limited to massage therapy clinics?

Certainly not. Today, certified massage therapists work in hospitals, nursing homes, primary care, aboard cruise ships, resorts, sports/athletics facilities, physical therapy offices, airports, day spas, and other health and wellness clinics.

What income does a job in massage provide?

Although income varies depending on education, experience and environment; professional massage therapists have the potential to earn more than $30 an hour; in addition to tips.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in a career in massage, let professional training in high-growth industries such as massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki and others help you on your way! Discover career school programs  near you.