Therapeutic massage involves the use of manual soft tissue mobilization to promote
health and wellness. Recent scientific studies have documented the many positive physical,
mental, and emotional effects of massage.
Individuals who are licensed massage therapists may work in a variety of settings
including their home, hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, rehabilitation
facilities, sports facilities, spas, or home health agencies. Massage therapists work
in the day and evening hours. They may also work weekends or weekdays.
Massage therapists are usually self-employed and charge $65.00 - 90.00 per hour. Most
massage therapists will see approximately 4 clients per day. A summary of quick facts
can be found online through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Massage therapists are required to complete at least 650 hours (minimum) of classroom
instruction to apply for licensure. The individual who successfully completes these
courses at CCRI receives a certificate in Therapeutic Massage and is eligible to take
the licensure examination for massage therapists in Rhode Island. State licensure
requirements may vary state to state.
Interested high school students should enroll in a math and science curriculum, including
algebra and Human Anatomy & Physiology. Students should consider completing the online
MEDL 2350 Medical Terminology course at CCRI in preparation for success in the Therapeutic
Massage curriculum. High School students can take online courses during their senior
year. All students will need good reading and communication skills to prepare them
to take English Composition I at the college level.
The therapeutic massage program integrates classroom preparation and clinical practice.
General education courses such as English Composition and Human Anatomy and Physiology
enhance the therapeutic massage core courses. The core courses include laboratory
sessions to learn and practice hands on skills required to be a massage therapist.
Also see "Why choose CCRI?"
The total cost of the 12 month therapeutic massage program including tuition, fees,
and books is approximately $9,161. This does not include the costs for uniforms.
CCRI Bursar's Tuition & Fees: Up-to-Date Costs
Additional information about massage therapy can be found in the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) website.
You can also find each state’s regulatory requirements by visiting the following pages: