Therapeutic Massage Career Facts
Nature of Work
Massage therapists manipulate the soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints to relax or reduce pain in patients or customers. Massage therapists may be self-employed in private practice, employed in a variety of health care settings, in health and beauty spas, in sports or exercise complexes, or in large lodging and travel facilities.
Employment prospects
Jobs in massage therapy are expected to increase faster than
average. Graduates of this program are eligible to take the National
Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Body Work (NCBTMB),
which is necessary in order to advertise as a "certified" massage
therapist. Graduates are in private practice and work at hospitals,
chiropractic offices, physical therapy clinics, holistic health
clinics, spas and salons. Employment opportunities exist in resorts
and on cruise ships.
Skills you need
To succeed as a massage therapist, you will need physical
strength, mobility, and good interpersonal, communication, listening
and critical thinking skills.
Physical Fitness and Wellness Department
Health and Human Services Bldg.
Room 108
Phone: (517) 483-1227
Additional contact information »