Academic Programs

Massage Therapy

Award: Associate of Applied Science
Number of credits required: 60
Locations: La Plata Campus (LAPL)
Offered: Days And EveningsAll Required Courses Must Be Completedwith A Grade Of C Or Better
Contact: Department Liason, 301-934-7534

Description:

This program prepares students to work as professional massage therapists in a variety of health care settings. Massage therapy involves the manipulation of soft tissue structure of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, and stress; to improve body function and per- formance; to stimulate or enhance healing and recovery; as well as to promote health and wellness. Therapeutic massage is quickly becoming an important component of health care as providers and patients are increasingly recognizing the value of alternative medicine as a viable option for the prevention and treatment of certain health conditions. Massage therapists are employed in a variety of settings including chiropractic offices, rehabilitation clinics, long-term care and acute care facilities, health clubs, spas, salons, as well as private practice environments.The program consists of lecture, laboratory, and clinical instruction and practice. Students are required to provide proof of immunization status, a completed health form, proof of current CPR certification for healthcare providers, and a criminal background check at the student's expense. In addition, students may be required to provide proof of current health insurance and a negative drug screen at their own expense. Clinical training will be conducted at selected healthcare sites in the area. To practice in Maryland,graduates must be certified.Applicants for certification in Maryland must be 18 years of age and have passed the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) and the Maryland Massage Therapy Jurisprudence Examination. The program is approved by the Maryland Board of Chiropractic Examiners. A minimum grade of C or better is required in every course to advance in the program. This may be a competitive admissions program determined by student: instructor ratios and clinical space available.

The maximum number of credits accepted in transfer from other institutions to this program is 45.

Required courses:

Take 2 groups; #Take BIO-1040 BIO-1040L ENG-1010 PSY-1010 # HTH-1040 HTH-1100 HTH-1600 MAS-1005 MAS-2035 MAS-1015 MAS-1020 MAS-1030 MAS-2000 MAS-2020 MAS-2030 MAS-2040 MAS-2050 ; minimum grade C

Communications:

Take 3 credits from General Education Courses listing.

General Education:

Take 5 credits from General Education Courses listing.

Mathematics:

Take 3 credits from General Education Courses listing.

Electives:

Take 1 group; #Take BAD-1520 #Take WFS-1300 , WFS-1310 , and WFS-1330

Last Update: October 10, 2008