Do You Need a Degree to Become a Massage Therapist?

Do you have a passion for improving the wellbeing of those around you? Are you a personable individual who works well in one-on-one situations? Do you like working with your hands to help others?

If so, becoming a massage therapist may be the right line of work for you. As a licensed massage therapist, you can work in a great deal of settings, from clinics to at-home visits. You also can continually increase your level education on the subject, adding on new forms of massage to your knowledge base.

As you pursue this line of work though, you may wonder whether or not you need a degree to become a massage therapist. Here are answers to common questions regarding massage therapy and massage therapy degree programs.

Requirements for the State of Virginia

In the state of Virginia, you don't need a degree to become a massage therapist. In order to obtain a license you do need to complete certain massage training programs and pass an exam at the conclusion of the course. Outside of this, no actual degree is required. Each state is different, although the majority of states within the U.S. do not require actual degrees in order to become a practicing massage therapist.

Advantages of Having a Degree

While no degree is required to become a massage therapist, if you want to increase your earning potential and finely hone your craft, you'll be better off going after a degree. It is possible to study massage therapy and take the necessary massage courses while obtaining an associate's or bachelor's degree, so you don't need to put off your ability to work.

One of the benefits of obtaining a degree is the amount of knowledge you gain. Massage therapy is about improving upon the functionality of muscles within the body. In order to best do this, you need to know where specific muscles are, how the muscles come together, and how each functions. Some of this is covered in non-degree massage therapy courses, but you don't receive the extensive education as you would from a degree program.

The degree program normally not only covers the muscular system but also how it connects to other organs in the body. You'll learn how issues with muscle tissue may cause problems in the skeleton, which may increase the levels of pain a client experiences. A skilled massage therapist can identify what muscles are used more frequently, why the muscles may be used more frequently, and how it affects the rest of the body. The best way to fully understand this is to have a strong understanding of the human body itself.

Practice and Hone Your Skills

Holding a degree also makes you more attractive to possible job openings, especially more exclusive, high-profile spas where competition might be intense. With the educational background you'll instantly set yourself up for success as your resume stands out from the crowd.

While in school you could increase your knowledge and skill in massage therapy at the same time. Many schools offer copious opportunities for massage therapy students to work on live clients. Externships at local businesses are also common. This helps you to not only learn the theory side of massage, but apply it on real people.

There are always new techniques and forms to learn. The more styles you master, the more clients you'll be able to work with. No matter what your current educational level in massage therapy, additional education gives you both insights and time to improve.

More Job Options

While the state of Virginia doesn't require a degree to become a massage therapist, other states have varying regulations. The more education you obtain the better off you'll become and the more jobs you'll qualify for. If you're currently living in Virginia but have sights on a different state or even country, having the degree and added massage practice gives you the added boost for these positions. As you become more attractive to employers, your potential income increases.

While you do not necessarily need a degree to become a massage therapist, the more you know regarding the human body and how it works, the better off you'll be. You'll also be able to improve upon the services you provide clients, which brings them back to you and increases the amount of money you'll earn as a massage therapist. So while no degree is required, it makes a drastic difference in your line of work.

Are you thinking about a career in massage therapy? If you want to earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Massage Therapy, consider ECPI University for your education. With accelerated classes, you could graduate sooner and start looking for work faster. For more information, connect with one of our friendly admissions counselors.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Massage Therapy - Associate’s

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