Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Massage Therapy

Program Overview:

The Associate of Applied Science in Integrative Massage Therapy is a two-year degree program designed to prepare students for a career as licensed massage therapists (LMTs) with a holistic and integrative approach to wellness and bodywork. Students will gain hands-on training in various massage modalities, anatomy & physiology, pathology, clinical practice, ethics, and client care.

Emphasis is placed on integrating Eastern and Western therapeutic practices, including Swedish massage, deep tissue, neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release, reflexology, and energy work, along with complementary approaches like aromatherapy and hydrotherapy.

⌛ Program Length:

• Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)

• Credit Hours Required: 60–65 credits

🧠 Program Learning Outcomes:

Graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate proficiency in multiple massage therapy modalities.

• Understand and apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology.

• Develop individualized treatment plans for diverse clients.

• Apply ethical, legal, and professional standards of practice.

• Communicate effectively with clients and other health professionals.

• 📘 Program Curriculum:

🧩 General Education Courses (15–18 credits):

• ENGL 101: English Composition I (3 cr)

• COMM 110: Interpersonal Communication (3 cr)

• PSYC 101: Introduction to Psychology (3 cr)

• BIOL 130: Human Biology (with Lab) (4 cr)

• MATH 102: Applied Math or Statistics (3–4 cr)

💆♂️ Core Massage Therapy Courses (45–50 credits):

1. MT 101: Introduction to Massage Therapy (3 cr)

Description:
Foundational course introducing massage history, career pathways, scope of practice, and overview of therapeutic techniques.

Syllabus/Modules:

• History & Philosophy of Massage

• Scope of Practice & Licensing

• Professional Ethics and Boundaries

• Self-Care for Therapists

• Basic Techniques Overview

2. MT 102: Anatomy & Physiology I (4 cr)

Description:
Detailed study of the human body's systems with focus on muscles, bones, and tissue structures relevant to massage therapy.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Skeletal and Muscular Systems

• Nervous System Basics

• Anatomical Terminology

• Joint Mechanics & Movement

• Muscular Palpation Practice

3. MT 103: Swedish Massage Techniques (3 cr)

Description:
Hands-on training in traditional Swedish massage, including effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, and friction.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Massage Draping and Hygiene

• Client Intake & Positioning

• Five Basic Swedish Strokes

• Session Flow & Routine

• Contraindications and Modifications

4. MT 104: Kinesiology for Massage Therapists (3 cr)

Description:
Exploration of human movement, biomechanics, and how muscular actions relate to massage therapy.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Planes and Axes of Movement

• Origins, Insertions, and Actions

• Muscle Function Testing

• Gait Analysis

• Postural Assessment

5. MT 201: Deep Tissue and Trigger Point Therapy (3 cr)

Description:
Advanced training in deeper bodywork techniques, myofascial release, and pain management strategies.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Deep Tissue Concepts & Safety

• Locating and Treating Trigger Points

• Myofascial Chain Theory

• Client Pain Management

• Advanced Body Mechanics

6. MT 202: Pathology for Massage (3 cr)

Description:
Study of disease processes and how they affect massage therapy applications.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Introduction to Medical Terminology

• Common Musculoskeletal Disorders

• Autoimmune & Chronic Conditions

• Contraindications for Massage

• Client Communication & Referrals

7. MT 203: Eastern Modalities & Energy Work (3 cr)

Description:
Exploration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), reflexology, Reiki, and chakra balancing.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Meridian Theory & Acupoints

• Reflexology Foot Mapping

• Introduction to Reiki (Level 1)

• Chakra Balancing & Energy Flow

• Integrating Eastern Techniques into Sessions

8. MT 204: Clinical Massage Practicum I (2 cr)

Description:
Supervised, on-campus student massage clinic with real clients to build experience.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Clinical Documentation & SOAP Notes

• Time Management

• Professional Conduct

• Peer/Instructor Feedback

• Post-Session Evaluation

9. MT 205: Hydrotherapy and Spa Applications (2 cr)

Description:
Introduction to water-based therapies and spa services like hot stones, wraps, and aromatherapy.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Thermotherapy & Cryotherapy

• Contrast Baths and Hydrocollator Use

• Essential Oils and Blending Basics

• Salt Glows, Mud Wraps, and Scrubs

• Spa Safety and Sanitation

10. MT 206: Ethics, Law, and Business of Massage (3 cr)

Description:
Covers massage laws, insurance billing, client boundaries, marketing, and business setup.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Informed Consent & Confidentiality

• Legal Issues and Licensure

• Small Business Basics

• Marketing Strategies

• Creating a Private Practice Plan

11. MT 207: Clinical Massage Practicum II (3 cr)

Description:
Advanced clinic internship with focus on personalized treatments and client care.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Advanced Treatment Plans

• Diverse Populations & Conditions

• Therapist Evaluation Criteria

• Professionalism in Practice

• Community Engagement or Outreach

12. MT 208: Capstone & MBLEx Preparation (3 cr)

Description:
Comprehensive review and preparation for the MBLEx exam and entry into the professional field.

Syllabus/Modules:

• Mock Exams and Review Sessions

• Study Skills and Test-Taking Tips

• Case Study Development

• Resume and Interview Skills

• Final Exit Portfolio