Certificate in Massage Therapy

Certificate

Hours: 32 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Massage Therapy at Fort Hays State University prepares students for professional practice by providing the essential knowledge and hands-on skills required for a successful career in therapeutic massage. This undergraduate certificate is aligned with industry standards and includes a well-rounded curriculum that covers foundational techniques as well as advanced therapeutic methods.

Students engage in both theoretical and practical learning through lectures, demonstrations, lab work, and real-world experiences. Service-learning projects and fieldwork allow them to apply their skills in professional settings. With an emphasis on current trends and innovations, the certificate ensures students are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the massage therapy field.

Why pursue a Certificate in Massage Therapy at Fort Hays State University?

The Certificate in Massage Therapy at FHSU offers a flexible and comprehensive educational experience. With both online and on-campus learning options, it accommodates students with diverse schedules and commitments. Designed to meet industry standards, the certificate prepares students for immediate employment by covering both foundational and advanced massage techniques.

The curriculum incorporates the latest advancements in massage therapy, ensuring students stay current with emerging practices. Through hands-on training, including service-learning projects and field experiences, students gain valuable real-world skills. Emphasizing professional development and lifelong learning, this certificate equips students for sustained success in the health and wellness industry.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in Massage Therapy is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their skills and advance their careers in the health and wellness industry. It is ideal for:

Individuals interested in pursuing a career in massage therapy
Healthcare professionals looking to expand their skill set
Individuals passionate about health and wellness
Students seeking flexible learning options with both online and on-campus courses
Those eager to gain hands-on experience through fieldwork and service-learning projects
Individuals aiming to stay current with the latest advancements in massage therapy

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Massage Therapy is designed to develop proficient, knowledgeable, and ethical practitioners. These learning outcomes ensure that students are well-prepared for successful careers, equipped with the skills and expertise required to meet industry standards and demands.

Proficiency in Massage Techniques

Students will master basic and advanced massage techniques, including Swedish and deep tissue massage, to provide effective therapeutic treatments. Hands-on training ensures they can confidently apply these skills in real-world settings.

Anatomical and Physiological Knowledge

At the conclusion of the certificate, students will have a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology, including the musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems. This knowledge is essential for applying effective massage therapy and understanding its benefits.

Professional Communication

Effective communication is vital in massage therapy. Students develop strong interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport, conduct consultations, assess client needs, and provide clear guidance. These abilities are essential for client satisfaction and a successful practice.

Ethical Standards

The certificate emphasizes professional ethics and standards, covering client confidentiality, informed consent, and boundaries. Adhering to these principles is crucial for maintaining the profession’s integrity and ensuring client safety.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Massage Therapy equips students with practical application through service-learning projects, field experiences, and hands-on coursework. These opportunities enable students to apply classroom knowledge in supervised, real-world settings, ensuring they are prepared for the demands of professional massage therapy.

The curriculum incorporates the latest techniques and advancements in the field, keeping students current and competitive in the job market. Upon completion, students will have the skills and confidence to succeed in diverse environments, including spas, clinics, private practices, and sports teams.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University's Certificate in Massage Therapy incorporates the latest industry advancements and trends into its curriculum. Through lectures, demonstrations, labs, and research projects, students learn new techniques and practices that are shaping the field. This approach ensures participants remain current and innovative in their application of massage therapy.

The certificate also emphasizes continuous learning and professional development, encouraging students to stay informed about emerging trends. This commitment prepares students to be leaders in massage therapy, equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare and wellness industries.

Hands-on Activities

The Certificate in Massage Therapy provides extensive hands-on learning through labs, field experiences, and service-learning projects. These activities enable students to apply their skills in real-world settings, gaining practical expertise essential for professional success.

Supervised field experiences offer direct client interaction, ensuring students are well-prepared for the demands of the profession. This hands-on approach enhances skill development, building both confidence and competence. Students will complete the certificate with a strong portfolio of real-world experience, positioning them as competitive candidates in the job market.

What You’ll Learn:

Basic and advanced massage techniques
Therapeutic practices
Anatomy and physiology
Client communication skills
Professional ethics and standards

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive lectures and demonstrations
Hands-on labs and field experiences
Service-learning projects in classes
Research integration into coursework
Real-world applications through service learning

Courses

The core curriculum for the Certificate in Massage Therapy includes 32 credit hours covering fundamental and advanced topics. Courses include basic massage techniques, advanced therapeutic practices, anatomy and physiology, client communication, and professional ethics. This comprehensive coursework prepares students for successful careers in massage therapy.

The certificate offers both online and on-campus options, providing flexibility to accommodate diverse student needs and schedules. By integrating the latest advancements and techniques in the field, the curriculum ensures students are equipped with current, practical skills. This well-rounded approach readies students to excel in a variety of professional settings.

MTP 100: Basic Massage Techniques

This hands-on class teaches basic massage techniques for a professional experience, emphasizing correct body mechanics, self-care to prevent injury, and essential Swedish techniques.

MTP 124: Functional Kinesiology for Massage Therapy

This course examines the musculoskeletal systems and their role in daily support and movement, helping students assess and correct body movement deviations essential for structural analysis in massage therapy.

MTP 150: Externship in Massage Therapy

Clinical fieldwork practice provides students with the opportunity to apply learned techniques in a supervised setting.

Discover the full Certificate in Massage Therapy course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

FHSU’s students who complete the Certificate in Massage Therapy have a variety of career paths available to them, including roles such as:

Licensed Massage Therapist

Participants can work in various settings, including spas, clinics, and private practices, providing therapeutic massage services to clients. They are trained to perform various techniques that cater to clients' needs, from relaxation to injury rehabilitation.

Sports Massage Therapist

Specializing in athletic support, sports massage therapists help improve performance and aid in recovery. They apply techniques that focus on preventing injuries, enhancing flexibility, and reducing muscle soreness, making them valuable assets to sports teams and individual athletes.

Chiropractic Assistant

In this role, students assist chiropractors with patient care and therapeutic treatments. They help with tasks such as administering massages, preparing patients for treatments, and providing post-treatment care instructions. This position combines massage therapy skills with knowledge of chiropractic practices.

Rehabilitation Specialist

Working in rehabilitation centers, these professionals help patients recover from injuries through massage therapy. They collaborate with other healthcare providers to create comprehensive treatment plans that promote healing and improve mobility, significantly impacting patients' recovery journeys.

Spa Manager

Students with leadership skills can pursue roles as spa managers, overseeing operations and managing staff in wellness and spa settings. They ensure that the spa runs smoothly, maintains high service standards, and implement programs that attract and retain clients, contributing to the business's success.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a range of related programs that complement the Certificate in Massage Therapy. These programs provide additional opportunities for students to expand their knowledge and skills in related fields. Related programs include:

FAQ

What are the job prospects for the Certificate in Massage Therapy?

Job prospects are excellent, with growing demand in wellness, healthcare, and sports industries.

Where are your students employed?

Students who have completed the Certificate in Massage Therapy are employed in spas, clinics, sports teams, and private practice.

What are the requirements for the Certificate in Massage Therapy?

While Kansas does not require certification, FHSU’s Certificate in Massage Therapy prepares students for national certification exams.

What is the duration of the Certificate in Massage Therapy?

The certificate can be completed in approximately one year, depending on the course load.

Are there online options available?

Yes, the Certificate in Massage Therapy offers both online and on-campus courses for flexibility.

Information about the Department of Health and Human Performance

The Department of Health and Human Performance provides specialized, in-demand degrees that combine innovative, hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art facilities. You will be supported by a dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to helping you address the needs of the community and make a meaningful impact beyond the campus.

We strive to prepare you for a fulfilling and rewarding career that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Our programs emphasize practical learning experiences, offer flexible academic options, and foster close-knit mentorship from our experienced faculty. With opportunities in diverse, high-growth fields such as professional sports, healthcare, and more, you will be equipped to pursue your career aspirations. Join our network of accomplished alumni and embark on a path that leads to both personal satisfaction and professional success.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Phi Epsilon Kappa - Delta Theta Chapter: The Delta Theta chapter of Phi Epsilon Kappa, a national honor society, recognizes FHSU students pursuing careers in physical education, health, recreation, dance, human performance, exercise science, sports medicine, and sports management. Through Phi Epsilon Kappa, you will gain leadership skills by engaging in campus, community, and professional activities. To get involved, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
HHP Majors Club: The HHP Majors Club is ideal for students wanting to stay involved with departmental activities, meet classmates, and participate in university events. This club fosters a sense of community within the department. For more information, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes offers students the chance to combine their faith with their passion for athletics. This organization sponsors the national annual event, Fields of Faith, which allows FHSU students to worship and serve alongside the Hays community. All students interested in Christianity are welcome to join, regardless of their participation in FHSU athletics. To get involved, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
Pre-Professional Healthcare Club: The FHSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club is dedicated to providing meaningful experiences for students preparing for physical therapy school. This club brings together students interested in professional development to strengthen their applications for physical therapy programs and beyond. Membership is available to any FHSU student interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy or related fields. For more information, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.

Massage Therapy

Certificate

On-Campus
Online

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