Massage Studies - Associate of Applied Technology Degree
This program is currently not admitting new students.
Prepares successful students for employment and practice in a variety of workplace settings. Graduates from this program are qualified for positions at spas, clinics, hospitals and successful private practices.
Students develop a strong foundation in Swedish massage and deep tissue techniques. Clinical massage students benefit from advanced training in treatment applications and assessment. Teaching techniques are varied, addressing a wide variety of learning styles.
All students enrolled in the program are required to participate in the exchange of applied massage techniques in a supervised and professional setting. As part of the participation, students must be able to stand for up to two hours to perform massages. In addition, students must be able to support and smoothly move the limbs of their partner’s body, including the head and neck. Participation in the student-operated massage clinic allows students to gain experience in the profession while under instructor supervision.
Topics covered include, but are not limited to, massage theory and practice, anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, orthopedic assessment, pregnancy massage, sports massage, deep tissue, myofascial techniques, lymphatic drainage, on-site seated massage, hydrotherapy, hot-stone massage, and mini-spa applications.
Business classes introduce the skills and theories necessary for successful employment, such as professional ethics, goal setting, business planning, insurance billing, networking and communicating with health care professionals, marketing, job networking, resume writing, and interviewing.
Included in the associate degree program are academic courses in communication (English composition, speech), quantitative reasoning (math), and social sciences (psychology, sociology) that provide knowledge and abilities that enhance personal development and serve as a foundation for technical skills. These classes are offered at various times outside the regular Massage program hours.
Students pursuing an AAT or AAS-T degree must complete all college degree requirements prior to graduation. This includes courses that meet the requirements for diversity, computer literacy, and the capstone project.
Physical Activity Requirements
This occupation requires medium physical activity and lifting/handling objects weighing 10-25 lbs. (occasionally up to 50 lbs.). Massage practitioners are often standing and bending for long periods of time (up to two hours) while performing massages. This profession tends to stress the wrists, shoulders, back, and neck of practitioners.
Employability Requirements
Graduates are able to apply for licensure from Washington after passing the Federation of State Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). State requirements include completion of a minimum 500-hour program, passing the exam, and applying for licensure. A Washington State Patrol background check will be conducted to screen for prior convictions prior to state licensing. Persons with some types of criminal convictions may not be eligible for licensure.
Program Length
The associate degree program may take up to eight quarters, depending on the time students need to satisfactorily complete all graduation requirements. Some students attending full-time day courses complete in four quarters.
Admission Dates
Day program: Fall quarter.
Evening Program: Spring quarter, dependent upon enrollment.
Program Outcomes
• Implement a plan for the treatment of a variety of different skeletal-muscular pathologies.
• Interpret a kinesiology evaluation for use in treatment planning and implementation.
• Perform a variety of massage techniques that are tailored specifically to the client’s wants and needs.
• Summarize the test standards and information in order to complete a Washington State approved certification exam for massage.
• Employ successful business strategies and professional ethics related to a career in massage therapy.
• Adapt treatment applications to provide massage to those with chronic pain and illness.
• Use complimentary modalities such as hydrotherapies, hot stones, and essential oils safely in treatment sessions.
Completion Requirements
Prerequisite(s)
A medical statement of health status from a primary care provider stating that the student is able to safely participate in all aspects of the class is required to enter the program. That statement must be submitted to the instructor during the first week of class.
Potential students entering the program must test at college level (283 or higher) in reading on the Accuplacer or equivalent or have completed ENG 094. Students must also have documentation of training in standard first aid and CPR and a four-hour HIV/AIDS/blood-borne pathogens class prior to progressing to second quarter. A Washington State Patrol check will be required during the first quarter of study to progress to the second quarter. Some results from the background check may prevent individuals from participating in certain classes.
Program Course List
Computer Literacy Requirements: Complete an approved computer literacy course or successfully pass the computer literacy exam.