The Massage Therapy Certificate Program

Introductory Workshop
Although this class is a prerequisite to Admission, it counts towards the total program hours. It is the perfect way to see the philosophy and methods of our school in action. It is open to the general public as well as prospective students who are looking into careers in massage therapy. Instructors and current students will be available to answer questions. During an informative and fun session, particpants will be taught how to give a basic Swedish relaxation massage (and receive one as well). 7 Hours

Anatomy
This course is focused on the musculoskeletal anatomy of the human body. Students will learn the structure and function of the bones, connective tissue, and skeletal muscles. They will gain an in-depth appreciation of the body's engineering. Although this is a lecture class, there are hands-on labs to provide students with direct experience. 140 Hours

Fundamentals of Massage
This course is the basis for all future massage therapy work. In it, students will develop hands-on proficiency in basic Swedish massage strokes, proper body mechanics, and massage routines. Students will learn the history and theory of massage, as well as the psychological and emotional aspects of bodywork. Additional subjects such as Medical Documentation, Ethics, and Business Practices are addressed in both dedicated classes and ongoing discussions. In addition, students will develop a business plan for a massage practice. Other modalities (i.e. techniques or “schools”) that are introduced include chair massage, sports massage, and Reflexology, as well as energy work such as Reiki. 140 Hours

Physiology
This course acquaints students with the systems of the human body and how they work. Students will develop an understanding of the whole body starting with the cells and progressing through the tissues, organs and complex systems (such as digestive, nervous, cardiovascular, and integumentary). 105 Hours

Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
This hands-on course is the capstone of the curriculum. The students’ fundamental skills are built upon and integrated with Anatomy and Physiology. Students learn how to treat specific conditions of the body’s musculature, using advanced techniques such as Muscle Energy, Trigger Point Therapy, and Myofascial Release. In dedicated classes, instruction is focused upon a region of the body, such as the neck and shoulder. The anatomy of that area is thoroughly reviewed, and the application of each technique is demonstrated and then practiced. Throughout the course, students employ Postural Assessment, Gait Analysis, and Effective Treatment Planning, learning how to identify and address underlying problems instead of just the symptoms. 140 Hours

Pathology
This course is a vital adjunct to Physiology. The study of disease and its effect on the body is an important part of the massage therapy curriculum. As massage therapy is increasingly sought out for the treatment of medical conditions, therapists have the responsibility to understand them. Knowing when not to treat a client due to ill health is as important as knowing how to treat a healthy client. The symptoms and effects of major diseases and conditions such as skin disease, sports related injuries, and chronic pain will be covered as well as appropriate treatment options. 40 Hours

Hydrotherapy
This course covers the theory and practice using water for therapeutic effect. Students will learn how and when to apply treatments such as ice, hot packs, and hot and cold water baths. In addition, some non water-based thermal treatments will be covered. 15 Hours

CPR and First Aid
Students will receive certification for CPR and First Aid from a certified instructor. 12 Hours

Student Clinic
The Clinic is modeled on a professional massage clinic. It provides a safe and comfortable setting for both student and client, with its private treatment rooms, client waiting area, and therapist’s office. Student therapists have the opportunity to work on actual clients, who typically present a wide array of body types, physical conditions, and personalities. Students get a valuable preview of their professional career as they hone their massage skills, interact with clients, and complete medical documentation. Clinic Supervisors, who are Licensed Massage Therapists themselves, are on hand at all times to support and assist the student therapist. 211 Hours

Licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Education

Contact Us At:
M.I.T.M., 223 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA 01803
781-272-3866

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