Massage Therapy
The therapeutic massage program trains you for success in a rapidly growing and dynamic profession.
Our program has:
- High demand for employment
- Fast and affordable training
- Great income potential
- Advanced training in clinical modalities
- Potential for being self-employed or gaining placement in a spa, sports, or medical facility
How Long is the Therapeutic Massage Program?
The curriculum is 660 hours of classroom and clinical training. Part-time night classes are 13-14 months in length. Our full-time day classes are 9-10 months in length.
Graduates can work in various settings:
- Spas and salons
- Massage clinics
- Medical offices
- Hospitals
- Chiropractic offices
- Hotels and resorts
- Cruise ships
- Sports, fitness, and/or wellness centers
- Massage franchises
- Self-employment
After graduation:
To work in the field, North Carolina requires you to pass the North Carolina Massage and Bodywork Therapy Licensing Examination (MBLEx) and apply for and receive a North Carolina Massage License from the NC BMBT (licensure board in North Carolina).
Have a question?
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Admission Policy
To be accepted in GTCC’s Therapeutic Massage Program, an individual must meet the following criteria and complete the application packet:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a high school diploma or equivalency
- Attend the first day of class
- Have a current government issued photo ID
- Meet the training program's technical standards
- Agree to abide and follow the training program's Code of Conduct
Professional Therapeutic Massage Program
The program consists of 660 hours of training, more than the minimum state requirement.
- Module I: Fundamentals of Massage. This will lay the foundation for Therapeutic Massage by exploring basic human Anatomy & Physiology and musculoskeletal anatomy, body mechanics, indications/contraindications for Massage, and a thorough coverage of Swedish/relaxation massage techniques. A broad introduction of spa techniques will also be covered, as well as Chair Massage, Sports Massage, stretching, and energy work.
- Module II: Clinical Massage Therapy: This will focus on how to treat more specific concerns by focusing on specific parts of the body, injuries, and various pathologies commonly treated with therapeutic massage. Clinical and medical applications will be introduced along with in-depth coverage of Deep Tissue and Neuromuscular techniques. Condition-specific treatments are also addressed, including Myofascial Release, Lymphatic Drainage, Craniosacral, and orthopedic testing/PNF.
- Student Clinic: At the end of each Module, students will participate in clinic, which will provide each student with real-life experience working with the public.
Successful Completion of the program qualifies the student to sit for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) as part of the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy (NC BMBT) requirements to become a licensed Massage Therapist in North Carolina.
Check back for our next Module I course beginning soon in Spring 2025.
To register in person (cash or check), go to:
- Jamestown Campus: 601 E. Main St., Jamestown, Medlin Center Admission office regular business hours
The curriculum consists of 660 hours of classroom and clinical training.
- Day program
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Length is about 9 months.
- Evening program
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Length is about 13 months.
Cost of the program:
- Most modules: $204.50 (tuition and fees) per module
- Book cost: $640 (book prices may vary)
Other required student supplies:
- Navy scrubs, portable massage table, twin sheets, hypoallergenic, unscented oil, cream or lotion, a professional massage by a LMBT (must bring receipt to the first class): $375
- Total investment: $1,424.00 (estimate)
- Students must comply with the program's strict attendance requirements.
- Students must wear navy scrubs and comfortable, close-toed shoes to all classes.
- All classes will require a minimum grade of 80% on all examinations, papers, quizzes, and practical (hands-on) work.
- All requirements of the individual classes and the program must be met.
Yes. You may be eligible for scholarships when taking this training program. Each scholarship has a time-sensitive application deadline. Click on the link below to learn more about the requirements.
All scholarships support tuition and fees first, then books and supplies purchased at the GTCC bookstores only.