🧾 Program Overview:
The Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Massage Therapy is a two-year degree program designed to prepare students for a career as licensed massage therapists (LMTs) with a holistic and integrative approach to wellness and bodywork. Students will gain hands-on training in various massage modalities, anatomy & physiology, pathology, clinical practice, ethics, and client care.
Emphasis is placed on integrating Eastern and Western therapeutic practices, including Swedish massage, deep tissue, neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release, reflexology, and energy work, along with complementary approaches like aromatherapy and hydrotherapy.
⌛ Program Length:
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credit Hours Required: 60–65 credits
🧠 Program Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will be able to:
Demonstrate proficiency in multiple massage therapy modalities.
Understand and apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
Develop individualized treatment plans for diverse clients.
Apply ethical, legal, and professional standards of practice.
Communicate effectively with clients and other health professionals.
📘 Program Curriculum:
🧩 General Education Courses (15–18 credits):
ENGL 101: English Composition I (3 cr)
COMM 110: Interpersonal Communication (3 cr)
PSYC 101: Introduction to Psychology (3 cr)
BIOL 130: Human Biology (with Lab) (4 cr)
MATH 102: Applied Math or Statistics (3–4 cr)
💆‍♂️ Core Massage Therapy Courses (45–50 credits):
1. MT 101: Introduction to Massage Therapy (3 cr)
Description:
Foundational course introducing massage history, career pathways, scope of practice, and overview of therapeutic techniques.
Syllabus/Modules:
History & Philosophy of Massage
Scope of Practice & Licensing
Professional Ethics and Boundaries
Self-Care for Therapists
Basic Techniques Overview
2. MT 102: Anatomy & Physiology I (4 cr)
Description:
Detailed study of the human body's systems with focus on muscles, bones, and tissue structures relevant to massage therapy.
Syllabus/Modules:
Skeletal and Muscular Systems
Nervous System Basics
Anatomical Terminology
Joint Mechanics & Movement
Muscular Palpation Practice
3. MT 103: Swedish Massage Techniques (3 cr)
Description:
Hands-on training in traditional Swedish massage, including effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, and friction.
Syllabus/Modules:
Massage Draping and Hygiene
Client Intake & Positioning
Five Basic Swedish Strokes
Session Flow & Routine
Contraindications and Modifications
4. MT 104: Kinesiology for Massage Therapists (3 cr)
Description:
Exploration of human movement, biomechanics, and how muscular actions relate to massage therapy.
Syllabus/Modules:
Planes and Axes of Movement
Origins, Insertions, and Actions
Muscle Function Testing
Gait Analysis
Postural Assessment
5. MT 201: Deep Tissue and Trigger Point Therapy (3 cr)
Description:
Advanced training in deeper bodywork techniques, myofascial release, and pain management strategies.
Syllabus/Modules:
Deep Tissue Concepts & Safety
Locating and Treating Trigger Points
Myofascial Chain Theory
Client Pain Management
Advanced Body Mechanics
6. MT 202: Pathology for Massage (3 cr)
Description:
Study of disease processes and how they affect massage therapy applications.
Syllabus/Modules:
Introduction to Medical Terminology
Common Musculoskeletal Disorders
Autoimmune & Chronic Conditions
Contraindications for Massage
Client Communication & Referrals
7. MT 203: Eastern Modalities & Energy Work (3 cr)
Description:
Exploration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), reflexology, Reiki, and chakra balancing.
Syllabus/Modules:
Meridian Theory & Acupoints
Reflexology Foot Mapping
Introduction to Reiki (Level 1)
Chakra Balancing & Energy Flow
Integrating Eastern Techniques into Sessions
8. MT 204: Clinical Massage Practicum I (2 cr)
Description:
Supervised, on-campus student massage clinic with real clients to build experience.
Syllabus/Modules:
Clinical Documentation & SOAP Notes
Time Management
Professional Conduct
Peer/Instructor Feedback
Post-Session Evaluation
9. MT 205: Hydrotherapy and Spa Applications (2 cr)
Description:
Introduction to water-based therapies and spa services like hot stones, wraps, and aromatherapy.
Syllabus/Modules:
Thermotherapy & Cryotherapy
Contrast Baths and Hydrocollator Use
Essential Oils and Blending Basics
Salt Glows, Mud Wraps, and Scrubs
Spa Safety and Sanitation
10. MT 206: Ethics, Law, and Business of Massage (3 cr)
Description:
Covers massage laws, insurance billing, client boundaries, marketing, and business setup.
Syllabus/Modules:
Informed Consent & Confidentiality
Legal Issues and Licensure
Small Business Basics
Marketing Strategies
Creating a Private Practice Plan
11. MT 207: Clinical Massage Practicum II (3 cr)
Description:
Advanced clinic internship with focus on personalized treatments and client care.
Syllabus/Modules:
Advanced Treatment Plans
Diverse Populations & Conditions
Therapist Evaluation Criteria
Professionalism in Practice
Community Engagement or Outreach
12. MT 208: Capstone & MBLEx Preparation (3 cr)
Description:
Comprehensive review and preparation for the MBLEx exam and entry into the professional field.
Syllabus/Modules:
Mock Exams and Review Sessions
Study Skills and Test-Taking Tips
Case Study Development
Resume and Interview Skills
Final Exit Portfolio