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How to Choose the Right Massage Therapy Program: Key Accreditation Standards to Look For in 2024

Your Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Massage Therapy Program: Essential Accreditation Standards to Look for in 2024

Choosing the right massage therapy program is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in launching your wellness career. With the field rapidly expanding according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for qualified massage therapists continues to grow. However, not all programs are created equal, and understanding key accreditation standards can make the difference between a program that truly prepares you for success and one that leaves you struggling to meet licensing requirements.

Why Accreditation Matters More Than Ever

In 2024, one method of knowing whether a program or massage school provides a nationally-recognized standard level of education is to see if it is accredited by a credible agency (i.e., one that follows the guidelines of the U.S. Department of Education). Accreditation serves as your assurance that the education you’re investing in meets rigorous professional standards and will be recognized by state licensing boards nationwide.

Credentials help inform a consumer about the qualifications and competency of a massage therapist. Standards for education and training can assist the consumer to know whether a massage therapist has adequate preparation to practice. This is especially critical as several states have revised their requirements for massage therapy education: Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, Colorado, Delaware, Tennessee, Florida, and Nevada have all increased their entry-level education requirements to at least 600 hours in response to federal regulations.

The Gold Standard: COMTA Accreditation

When evaluating massage therapy programs, COMTA elevates and upholds standards of excellence in massage therapy/bodywork and esthetics education through specialized accreditation, benefiting students and schools, practitioners, and the public. The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) represents the pinnacle of educational quality in the field.

COMTA-accredited programs must demonstrate competency in five core areas:

There are fewer than 15 massage therapy schools in the country that have earned this distinction, making COMTA accreditation a rare and valuable credential. About 85 schools are currently certified in COMTA. East West College is the only COMTA-accredited program in Portland, and one of only 4 COMTA schools on the entire West Coast.

State-Specific Education Requirements

Understanding your state’s specific requirements is crucial when selecting a program. State massage educational requirements range from 500 hours to 1000 hours of classroom or supervised training by an approved or accredited school. For example, Virginia requires completing an approved 500-hour massage education program and passing the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx). Applicants for a Virginia massage license are required to complete a minimum of 500 hours of training from a massage therapy program that is approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, or similar agency in another state.

In contrast, New York requires completing 1000 hours of massage therapy education and training, while Pennsylvania requires at least 600 hours of in-class postsecondary education instruction approved by the Board.

Key Accreditation Standards to Look For

When evaluating programs, ensure they meet these essential criteria:

Federal Recognition

Look for programs accredited by a credible agency (i.e., one that follows the guidelines of the U.S. Department of Education). This ensures the program meets national educational standards and that your education will be recognized across state lines.

Curriculum Competencies

Every massage therapist should understand a certain body of knowledge and possess a specific skill set to be competent and successful. COMTA has listed and defined this knowledge and skill set as the COMTA Curriculum Competencies.

Assessment Methods

While some schools determine massage therapy competence through written exams, COMTA accreditation requires institutions to assess massage technique through partner work and a public-facing clinic.

AVI Career Training: A Model of Excellence in Fairfax County

Located in Tysons Corner, Fairfax County, AVI Career Training exemplifies the standards prospective massage therapy students should seek. AVI Career Training is accredited by the Council of Occupational Education (COE) and approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). They welcome students from all backgrounds, including international students and veterans, offering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

Students learn from seasoned professionals who bring years of salon and spa experience into the classroom, receiving personalized mentorship and insider insights to elevate their skills and confidence. The school’s commitment to excellence is evident in their comprehensive approach, as their educational approach seamlessly combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience, ensuring students grasp the latest techniques and technologies. From mastering the art of microdermabrasion to chemical peels and advanced facial treatments, their goal is to equip students with both practical skills and the essential theoretical knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen profession.

For those interested in massage therapy in Fairfax County, VA, AVI Career Training offers a program that prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities. Graduates of this program are provided with the tools to practice in a variety of settings, including private practice, health clubs, chiropractic or osteopathic offices, beauty salons, stress reduction, sport centers, as well as many other locations.

Financial Aid and Federal Recognition

One significant advantage of choosing an accredited program is access to federal financial aid. COMTA accreditation allows schools to offer federal financial aid to those who qualify. AVI Career Training is approved by the Department of Education (ED) to offer Federal Financial Aid Title IV Funding which includes Pell Grants, Direct Loans for those who qualify.

The COMTA Endorsed Curriculum Option

For programs that may not have full COMTA accreditation, the COMTA-endorsed Curriculum status provides recognition without full accreditation. This status can be an alternative to accreditation to honor programs who meet COMTA’s requirements, but may not be able to meet full accreditation standards or costs. Any state-approved, post-secondary massage/bodywork institution or program which meets state professional licensing requirements (or a minimum of 500 hours in lieu of licensing) and the COMTA Curriculum Competencies is eligible to apply.

Making Your Decision

When choosing a massage therapy program in 2024, prioritize schools that demonstrate:

A therapeutic massage school with top-notch certifications—such as COMTA–will tend to deliver more effective learning. Beyond the education process, accreditation serves clients and therapists alike, as it ensures competency in core aspects of massage.

Your massage therapy education is an investment in your future. By choosing a program that meets these rigorous accreditation standards, you’re setting yourself up for success in this rewarding and growing field. Take the time to research thoroughly, visit campuses, and ask detailed questions about accreditation status and curriculum alignment with national standards. Your future clients—and your career—will benefit from this careful selection process.

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