How to Enroll in a Massage Therapist School near Knoxville Tennessee

Selecting the right massage therapist school near Knoxville TN is an important first step to launching a rewarding first or second career in massage therapy.  After all, who wouldn’t enjoy working in an occupation where the sole purpose is to help people function and feel better?  Massage therapists can work in a wide variety of locations, including medical clinics, health spas, hospitals and alternative care facilities.  But before starting a career in this specialty of alternative medicine, receiving the right training and licensing is essential.  And keep in mind that not all massage therapy programs are alike.  When evaluating your options, it’s vital that you look at all facets of the schools you are considering and not just the cost or convenience of the locations.  Following are some fundamental tips that you should incorporate into your review process when choosing a massage therapist school.

What is Therapeutic Massage?

As previously discussed, therapeutic massage is a holistic form of medicine that helps people feel and function better. The massage therapist manually stimulates muscles, tissue and skin to diminish stress and relieve pain and tension in their clients.  Classic, or Swedish Massage, is the type of massage that most of us think of when discussing massage therapy, and almost all Knoxville TN massage therapy schools teach it as their principal type of massage.  But keep in mind, there are numerous other types of massage that programs may or may not include as part of their syllabus.  Below are some of the more popular examples.

• Neuromuscular Therapy Massage
• Deep Tissue Massage
• Sports Massage
• Shiatsu Massage
• Thai Massage
• Hot Stone Massage
• Pregnancy Massage

Practitioners that work in therapeutic massage are properly referred to as massage therapists. On occasion one may hear them called a masseur or a masseuse, which refers to a female or a male massage practitioner. However, these titles generally have a negative connotation among Knoxville TN professionals and the public at large and should be avoided.

Massage Therapist Education Requirements

The majority of Knoxville TN massage therapy programs require that the enrollee has earned a high school diploma or its equivalent to qualify. Programs can range in length from a few months for a Diploma or a Certificate to as long as two years for an Associate’s Degree.  The lengths of the programs will also vary by State based on the training hours required for licensing.  Another factor that may also influence the length of the program is whether classes are offered during the day or in the evening.  In addition, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy may have general studies requirements and are often transferrable into a related Bachelor’s Degree Program.  Once you have earned your Certificate or Degree, the training does not end there. The amount and type of continuing education you are required to complete will vary based on the State where you are licensed.  Some states have requirements for both number of hours and subjects covered, such as ethics or HIPAA compliance. 

Massage Therapist Licensing

After your graduation from an accredited Knoxville TN massage therapy school, the next step is to obtain your license in the State where you will be practicing.  The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), is a test controlled and administered by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is mandated by the majority of States as a portion of the licensing process.  There are States that have their own or additional exams, so check with your State before enrolling in a massage therapy program.  If you fail the MBLEx in your initial attempt, you can re-take it after thirty days but must pay an additional testing fee.  Once licensed, you will be required to maintain it in most states, which means paying a renewal fee and satisfying renewal requirements.  As earlier stated, completion of a specific number of continuing education hours are usually required as a prerequisite for renewal.  And if you should move to another State, licensing will be required for that new State also. Every State has different regulations for massage therapists, so do not assume that you will automatically be qualified for licensing. Confirm with your new State prior to moving that you meet the requirements to practice legally there. 

Massage Therapy Online Schools

Since massage therapy by nature is a hands-on profession, programs generally require a good deal of clinical or physical training. This means that online programs are not available (or should not be available) that are offered solely online. However hybrid programs are available in Knoxville TN that allow students to complete their general education requirements remotely, and then attend classes on campus for their clinical massage therapy training. These programs can often have lower tuition fees and give students more flexibility by allowing them to complete some of their classes at home at their convenience. It is important, however, that students make sure that they can attend the scheduled portions of the program, such as for clinical training or online seminars prior to enrolling as they would with a more traditional program.   

What to Ask Massage Therapy Schools

Before you choose a massage therapy school, there are some important questions that you need to ask about the programs you are considering.  As previously mentioned, the location of the school is important, particularly if you will be commuting to classes from Knoxville TN. And of course the total cost, including tuition, books and all training materials will also be an important factor.  But beyond those basic qualifications, following are some questions you should ask so that you have all of the facts before choosing a massage therapist training program.

• Is the School Accredited? Accreditation may be required for licensing as well as student loans or financial aid. It also helps to ensure that the program meets acceptable levels of quality.  Some Knoxville TN employers also prefer job candidates from accredited schools.
• Does their Curriculum Comply with EALP Standards? Entry-Level Analysis Project (EALP) standards were created by an association of massage organizations to define minimum standards for preparing massage school graduates for entry-level professional work.
• What Massage Therapy Programs are Available? Find out if the type of program you are interested in is available, such as an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy. Also, if you need to attend evening classes make sure that they are offered near Knoxville TN as well.
• What Types of Massage Therapy are Taught? As previously mentioned, most massage therapy schools teach Swedish Massage. However, the better programs include multiple types of massage therapy.  Make sure that the program you choose includes those you are most interested in.
• Is Financial Aid Available? To qualify for federal financial aid or a student loan, the school will need to be accredited by a national accrediting organization.  Find out from the schools you are considering what they offer in aid or if they assist students in obtaining funding from other sources.
• How Long has the School Existed? One indication that a school provides a quality education is longevity.  However, all schools had to start from day one, and many fine schools are relatively new.  So use this as one of several qualifications when comparing schools.
• Does the School have a Job Placement Program? Find out if the schools have job placement programs in the Knoxville TN area and what their placement rates are.  Ask if they assist with such skills as how to interview for a position and how to prepare a resume.
• Is Plenty of Hands-On Training Provided? This includes classroom training as well as placement in Knoxville TN internship programs.  The best massage therapy schools make sure that students have plenty of time to practice what they learn so they can develop their skills and be corrected when necessary.
• What is the Background of the Faculty? Find out what the experience and credentials are of the teaching faculty.  Speaking with schools’ faculty in person can also provide valuable information. Before applying, arrange to take a tour of the school and talk with staff members and students if permissible. Schools may also have Open House events for prospective students.

Find Out More About Knoxville Massage Therapist Programs

Pick the Right Massage Therapist School

Good luck as you embark on your journey to begin a career as a professional massage therapist.  As with all things worth achieving, it will take a lot of hard work and dedication to succeed.  And by following the suggestions contained within this article, you will have an excellent opportunity for success by choosing the right school and training program.  With the right education you will soon become a professional massage therapist servicing Knoxville Tennessee.