Program Overview
The Associate Degree in Healing Arts and Therapy is a two-year undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for careers in holistic wellness, complementary therapies, and integrative health practices. This program provides a balanced foundation in anatomy, psychology, energy healing, bodywork, nutrition, and various therapeutic modalities. Graduates will be prepared for roles in holistic health centers, wellness spas, rehabilitation clinics, or to pursue further studies in alternative medicine or counseling.
Program Duration
2 years full-time (or 4 semesters)
60–64 credit hours
Program Objectives
Upon completion of this degree, students will be able to:
Understand foundational concepts of physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.
Apply various healing modalities like massage therapy, aromatherapy, energy work, and counseling techniques.
Integrate traditional and alternative approaches to wellness.
Conduct client-centered holistic assessments.
Maintain ethical practices in healing and therapy environments.
📚 Program Curriculum
Year 1: Foundational Studies (Semesters 1 & 2)
Semester 1
Introduction to Healing Arts (3 credits)
History, philosophy, and contemporary practices of healing arts around the world.
Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4 credits)
Introduction to the structure and function of the human body with lab work.
Psychology of Healing (3 credits)
Mental and emotional aspects of healing including stress, trauma, and resilience.
Holistic Health Principles (3 credits)
Nutrition, lifestyle, and mind-body integration for health maintenance.
Communication Skills for Therapists (2 credits)
Client interaction, active listening, and empathetic communication.
Semester 2
Energy Medicine and Chakras (3 credits)
Understanding energy systems, auras, chakras, and energy healing tools.
Massage Therapy I (3 credits)
Basic massage techniques, touch therapy, and safety protocols.
Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4 credits)
Continued study of body systems with a focus on clinical relevance.
Ethics and Professional Practice (2 credits)
Legal, ethical, and business considerations in holistic practices.
Introduction to Herbal Medicine (3 credits)
Use of plants and botanicals for healing and wellness.
Year 2: Applied Practice and Specialization (Semesters 3 & 4)
Semester 3
Massage Therapy II (Advanced Techniques) (3 credits)
Deep tissue, reflexology, myofascial release, and advanced protocols.
Aromatherapy and Essential Oils (3 credits)
Therapeutic uses of essential oils and methods of application.
Meditation and Mindfulness Techniques (2 credits)
Breathwork, guided visualization, and mindfulness-based practices.
Therapeutic Movement Practices (Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong) (3 credits)
Movement-based therapies for physical and emotional healing.
Client Case Studies and Practice Lab I (2 credits)
Hands-on healing practice under supervision with real case evaluations.
Semester 4
Holistic Counseling Techniques (3 credits)
Basic therapeutic conversation, motivational interviewing, and support skills.
Integrative Healing Modalities (3 credits)
Comparative study of Reiki, sound therapy, craniosacral therapy, etc.
Business Skills for Healing Professionals (2 credits)
Marketing, entrepreneurship, and building a private wellness practice.
Client Case Studies and Practice Lab II (Capstone) (3 credits)
Final supervised practicum, peer review, and capstone presentation.
Elective (choose one):
Trauma-Informed Healing Practices
Healing Through Art and Music Therapy
Shamanic and Indigenous Healing Systems
(3 credits)