Online Massage Therapy Degree Programs

Massage therapy is a field that owes much of its appeal to the immediate relief and stress reduction that it offers to patients and clients alike. Unlike clinical medicine and lifestyle changes that often require days or weeks of dedication, massages can provide demonstrable results almost instantly. The industry's appeal for practitioners is equally telling. Massage therapists enjoy tremendous freedom and flexibility, with nearly 64 percent of specialists self-employed. And because massage therapy is considered a healing art, you can enjoy the satisfaction of helping others on a daily basis.

Massage Therapy Degrees

Despite outward appearances, massage therapy involves a lot more than pleasant rubbing. In order to provide consistent relief to patients, you must have a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, biology, and some might add, spirituality. This is why most states require certification and licensing for aspiring massage therapists. In preparation for such exams, most massage therapists secure two-year degrees from vocational programs. Through the coursework, you study the massage strokes, in addition to diet, nutrition, stress reduction, breathing, and physical therapy. If your particular school stresses the spiritual side of massage therapy, you might be required to include Eastern philosophy and Chinese medicine into your studies as well.

Online Massage Career Training

Many aspiring massage therapists opt for online degrees due to the freedom and flexibility they offer. While this approach is ideal for mastering the theoretical aspects of massage therapy, be prepared to supplement your career training with hands-on experience. Fortunately, massage therapy students rarely have to look hard for willing volunteers upon which to practice. And due to massage therapy's growing commercial popularity, setting up a home studio is both convenient and affordable.

Career Options in Massage Therapy

Massage therapy positions exists throughout the country, from home studios and cruise ships to gyms and resorts. There are even massage therapists who develop partnerships with local business. Imagine making the rounds during office hours as you help employees who are stressed or who have ergonomically unsound working habits.

Career Outlook for Massage Therapy

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), if you complete a formal training program and pass a national certification exam in massage therapy, your career opportunities should be very good. At 20 percent expected growth, massage therapy positions could increase nearly twice as fast as the national average for all other occupations. Equally encouraging are the salary estimates. In 2006, the median hourly wage was over $16 plus tips. But because you have an opportunity to build your own clientele and create your own hours, massage therapy offers lifestyle benefits that money can't always buy. And if you specialize in a unique branch of massage therapy (for example, reflexology, Reiki healing, and Shiatsu), you can potentially set your prices slightly above the industry standard, thus, making more money over time.

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