Top 12 Best Massage Therapy Schools Online

Massage therapy is a holistic healing practice that uses touch and pressure to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. It has been shown to provide a variety of health benefits, including reducing stress, pain, and muscle tension. 

Massage therapy is also a growing field, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 32% increase in employment opportunities between 2020 and 2030.

Pursuing a career in massage therapy can be a dream that seems out of reach for many individuals, due to various constraints like busy schedules, and geographical limitations. The good news is that in our increasingly interconnected digital age, access to high-quality massage therapy education is now at your fingertips, literally.

Thanks to the advent of online learning, aspiring massage therapists can embark on their journey towards a fulfilling career without leaving the comfort of their homes.

In this article, we will guide you through the top 10 massage therapy schools online that offer comprehensive training, accredited programs, and the flexibility to fit your learning into your busy lifestyle.

Whether you’re a career changer, a wellness enthusiast, or someone looking to enhance their massage therapy skills, these massage therapy schools can help you achieve your goals. Join us as we explore the best online massage therapy schools that are shaping the future of this ancient healing art.

Related: Best Massage Therapy Schools In Florida

Best Massage Therapy Schools Online

The best online massage therapy schools include the following;

1. Florida College of Natural Health 

Florida College of Natural Health 

The Florida College of Natural Health (FCNH) is a private, for-profit college that offers a variety of programs in natural health, including massage therapy, esthetics, and electrology. 

The FCNH massage therapy program is a 750-hour program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for entry-level positions in the massage therapy field.

The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, and business practices. Students also complete a clinical internship to gain hands-on experience.

The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), and the massage therapy program is a good option for students who are looking for a comprehensive program that will prepare them for a successful career in massage therapy. 

Visit Florida College of Natural Health

2. Centura College 

Centura College is a distinguished institution offering top-notch online massage therapy programs. Committed to equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the field, Centura College has gained recognition for its quality education.

The Centura College massage therapy program is a 720-hour program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for entry-level positions in the massage therapy field. The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, and business practices.

Graduates from Centura College often go on to thrive in various settings, including spas, wellness centers, and rehabilitation facilities.

With its strong commitment to massage therapy education, Centura College deserves its spot as one of the top massage therapy schools online for aspiring massage therapists.

Visit Centura College

3. Ashford University 

Ashford University is a private, online university that offers a variety of programs in business, healthcare, education, and technology. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and it offers online massage therapy programs to help students embark on fulfilling careers in the field.

The Ashford University massage therapy program is a 600-hour program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for entry-level positions in the massage therapy field. The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, and business practices.

The Ashford University massage therapy program is a good option for students who are looking for the best massage therapy school online that is flexible and convenient.

Visit Ashford University

4. South University 

South University

South University is a reputable institution known for its online massage therapy programs, offering students an excellent foundation for successful careers in the field. With a strong commitment to healthcare education, South University is recognized for its comprehensive curriculum.

The South University massage therapy program is a 750-hour program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for entry-level positions in the massage therapy field.

The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, and business practices. Students also complete a clinical internship to gain hands-on experience.

One key advantage of South University is the range of massage therapy programs it offers, providing flexibility to students with varying career goals and schedules. This adaptability makes it an attractive choice for individuals seeking a tailored education.

Visit South University

5. National Holistic Institute 

The National Holistic Institute (NHI) is a private, accredited college of massage therapy with ten campuses throughout California. NHI offers a comprehensive online massage therapy training program that prepares students for careers in a variety of massage therapy modalities, including Swedish, deep tissue, sports, and shiatsu massage.

NHI’s massage therapy program is designed to be both educational and practical, with a strong focus on hands-on training. Students learn from experienced massage therapy instructors and have the opportunity to practice their skills on real clients in the on-campus massage therapy clinic.

In addition to massage therapy training, NHI also offers a variety of other holistic health and wellness programs, such as aromatherapy, herbalism, and yoga. This gives NHI students the opportunity to learn about and integrate other holistic healing practices into their massage therapy practice.

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6. Delaware Technical Community College

Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC) is a respected institution offering online massage therapy programs, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in this field.

The DTCC massage therapy program is a 690-hour program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for entry-level positions in the massage therapy field. 

The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, and business practices. Students also complete a clinical internship to gain hands-on experience.

The DTCC online massage therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), which is a reputable organization that ensures that massage therapy programs are meeting high standards of education.

Visit Delaware College

7. Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) is a well-regarded institution that offers online massage therapy programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers in the field. 

LWTech holds the necessary accreditations, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education aligned with industry standards. The institution’s faculty is composed of experienced professionals, enriching the learning experience with their real-world expertise.

One of the features of LWTech is the range of massage therapy programs it provides, catering to students with diverse career aspirations and scheduling needs, offering flexibility and personalization in education.

Graduates from Lake Washington Institute of Technology often find opportunities in wellness centers, rehabilitation facilities, and spa environments, reflecting the institution’s dedication to massage therapy education.

Visit Lake Washington Institute 

8. Eastern Washington University 

Eastern Washington University 

Eastern Washington University (EWU) is a respected institution that offers online massage therapy programs, preparing students for rewarding careers in the field. The school offers a 750-hour massage therapy program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for the massage therapy field.

With a strong commitment to education, EWU’s massage therapy programs are recognized for their comprehensive and well-rounded curriculum. The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, and business practices.

Graduates from Eastern Washington University often find opportunities in wellness centers, spas, rehabilitation facilities, and healthcare settings, underlining the institution’s commitment to providing quality massage therapy education. 

Visit Eastern Washington University

9. Southwestern College 

Southwestern College (SWC) is a public community college located in Santa Fe, New Mexico. SWC offers a variety of programs in healthcare, business, technology, and the arts.

The SWC online massage therapy program is a 720-hour program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for entry-level positions in the massage therapy field. 

The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, and business practices. Students are also required to complete a clinical internship to gain hands-on experience.

The SWC massage therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), which is a reputable organization that ensures that massage therapy programs are meeting high standards of education.

Visit Southwestern College

10. Massage Therapy Center of Nevada

The Massage Therapy Center of Nevada (MTCN) is a private massage therapy school located in Las Vegas, Nevada. The school  stands out for its commitment to massage therapy education and its comprehensive curriculum.

The MTCN massage therapy program is accredited by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB), which is the gold standard for massage therapy education accreditation.

Furthermore, the graduates from the Massage Therapy Center of Nevada are often sought out for in wellness centers, spas, and healthcare facilities, underlining the center’s dedication to massage therapy education.

Visit Massage Therapy Center of Nevada

11. Pinnacle College

Pinnacle College is a well-established institution offering online massage therapy programs to students from all over the world. With a strong commitment to education, Pinnacle College’s massage therapy programs are recognized for their comprehensive and industry-relevant curriculum.

Pinnacle College holds the necessary accreditation from the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education in accordance with industry standards. 

Pinnacle College’s massage therapy programs offer a range of options, allowing students to select the program that best aligns with their career goals and scheduling needs, thus providing flexibility and personalization in education.

Visit Pinnacle College

12. Myotherapy College

Myotherapy College

 Myotherapy College is a private, accredited college of massage therapy and myotherapy located in St. Louis, Missouri. Myotherapy College offers a variety of programs in massage therapy, myotherapy, and other holistic health and wellness modalities.

The Myotherapy College massage therapy program is a 690-hour program that prepares students for the national certification exam and for entry-level positions in the massage therapy field.

The program covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, massage techniques, business practices, and myotherapy. 

The Myotherapy College massage therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), which is a reputable organization that ensures that students receive a high-quality education aligned with industry standards. 

Visit Myotherapy College

FAQs

Which is the best massage course?

There are several courses attached to massage therapy. The following are the best massage courses you can take to get an in-depth knowledge of the massage game;

  • Acupressure.
  • Cupping Therapy.
  • Pain Relief.
  • Physical Therapy.
  • Massage Business.
  • Ayurveda.
  • Kinesiology Taping.
  • Natural Medicine.

What is the highest degree in massage therapy?

The highest level of achievement in the field of massage therapy is known as the Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB). 

To attain this prestigious certification, individuals are required to complete their education at a school affiliated with the National Certification Board in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) and successfully pass the rigorous board certification examination.

How long are most massage therapy programs?

Most therapy programs typically last for one to two years of full-time studies.

Some programs may be completed by students through online learning while others will involve attendance at campuses located throughout the country.

What is the best massage to learn?

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage stands as one of the most recognized and popular massage modalities, making it an excellent choice for those new to the experience. This technique involves the use of extended, gentle strokes, kneading, and fluid gliding movements, applied with a range of pressure from light to moderately firm.

Conclusion

Massage therapy is a growing field that offers a variety of career opportunities. If you’re interested in becoming a massage therapist, there are many great online schools available to help you get started, even from the comfort of your home.

Remember, when choosing an online massage therapy school, it’s important to consider your individual needs and goals. Some factors to consider include the school’s accreditation, curriculum, and reputation. You should also make sure that the school’s program is approved by your state’s massage therapy board.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s important to reach out to each school and ask questions about their program. This will help you get a better feel for the school and its culture.

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