Associate in Applied Science
Massage Therapy
Prepare to become a skilled, entry-level massage therapist through hands-on training in massage techniques, anatomy and physiology, pathology, kinesiology, client care, ethics, and business practices. Minimum required credits: 62.
Program Snapshot
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
- Minimum required credits: 62
- Program Certificate (PC) option available
- All required AAS and PC courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher
Career Settings
- Private practice
- Spas and wellness centers
- Resorts, cruise lines, and casinos
- Hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics
Ready to Become a Teton?
Student Education Plan
Review the full Massage Therapy AAS Student Education Plan for recommended course sequencing, program requirements, and advising notes.
View AAS Student Education Plan (SEP)
Program Description
The Massage Therapy program at °µÍøTV prepares students to become skilled, entry-level massage therapists ready to make a difference in people’s lives. Through the art of massage and complementary techniques, students learn how to address body dysfunction, promote relaxation, and enhance overall wellness.
Graduates are equipped to work with a wide range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, offering clients tailored treatments for relaxation and recovery. Whether students envision themselves running their own practice or working in environments like resorts, cruise lines, casinos, wellness centers, hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient clinics, this program sets them on the path to success.
The program combines in-depth learning about the human body, its systems, functions, and responses to injury or disease with the practical benefits of massage therapy. Students gain hands-on experience to prepare for a national licensing exam and develop the confidence needed to thrive in their careers.
Program Standard: All courses required for both the AAS degree and the PC in Massage Therapy must be successfully completed with a grade of C or higher.
What You’ll Learn
- Human Anatomy and Physiology: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the human body’s systems, focusing on musculoskeletal structures and their functions.
- Pathology and Kinesiology: Study common medical conditions and diseases, along with the mechanics of body movement, to effectively address health issues through massage.
- Massage Techniques: Master massage modalities including Swedish massage, myokinesiology, and advanced techniques to support diverse client needs.
- Client Interaction and Ethics: Develop professional communication skills, adhere to ethical standards, and learn to design individualized treatment plans for clients.
- Business Practices in Massage Therapy: Learn business management, personal finance, and the operational aspects of running a successful massage therapy practice.
Course Requirements
To earn the AAS degree in Massage Therapy, students must complete a minimum of 62 credits, including general education courses and the following program-specific courses:
- AH 130 — Pathology for Allied Health
- 3 credits
- AH 171 — Medical Terminology
- 3 credits
- AH 260 — Kinesiology I
- 3 credits
- AH 261 — Kinesiology II
- 3 credits
- BADM 251 or BUSN 120 — Personal Finance or Fundamentals of Business
- 3 credits
- MASG 101 — Introduction to Massage Therapy
- 2 credits
- MASG 120 — Swedish Massage I
- 3 credits
- MASG 121 — Massage Clinical I
- 1.5 credits
- MASG 150 — Myokinesiology I
- 3 credits
- MASG 220 — Swedish Massage II
- 2.5 credits
- MASG 221 — Massage Clinical II
- 3 credits
- MASG 240 — The Business of Massage
- 2 credits
- MASG 250 — Myokinesiology II
- 3 credits
- MASG 260 — Advanced Massage Techniques
- 3 credits
- NUTR 222 or NUTR 230 — Contemporary Nutrition or Herbs & Supplements
- 3 credits
- BIOL 115 — Concepts of Anatomy & Physiology L/L
- 4 credits
- COMM 212 — Interpersonal Communication
- 3 credits
- HPER 210 — First Aid & CPR
- 1 credit
Note: All courses required for both the AAS degree and the PC in Massage Therapy must be successfully completed with a grade of C or higher.
View course descriptions.
Possible Career Paths & Average Salaries
Graduates of the Massage Therapy program are prepared for various roles within the health and wellness industry.
Licensed Massage Therapist
$45,000 / yr
Provide therapeutic massage services to clients in settings such as spas, wellness centers, and private practices.
Spa Therapist
$40,000 / yr
Offer massage and body treatments within spa environments, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation.
Sports Massage Therapist
$50,000 / yr
Work with athletes to help prevent injuries and enhance performance through specialized massage techniques.
Clinical Massage Therapist
$48,000 / yr
Collaborate with healthcare professionals to assist patients in rehabilitation and pain management.
Massage Therapy Instructor
$55,000 / yr
Teach massage therapy techniques and theory in educational institutions or training programs.
Spa Manager / Wellness Center Director
Advancement Path
With experience and additional certifications, graduates may advance into management roles in spa, wellness, or clinical settings.
Salary figures are approximate and can vary based on location, experience, certification, and industry demand.
Program Certificate Option
Minimum required credits for PC: 30
Review the Massage Therapy Program Certificate Student Education Plan for course sequencing and certificate requirements.
View PC Student Education Plan (SEP)
- AH 130 — Pathology for Allied Health
- 3 credits
- AH 260 — Kinesiology I
- 3 credits
- AH 261 — Kinesiology II
- 3 credits
- BIOL 115 — Concepts of Anatomy & Physiology L/L
- 4 credits
- HPER 210 — First Aid & CPR
- 1 credit
- MASG 101 — Introduction to Massage Therapy
- 2 credits
- MASG 120 — Swedish Massage I
- 2.5 credits
- MASG 121 — Massage Clinical I
- 1.5 credits
- MASG 150 — Myokinesiology I
- 3 credits
- MASG 220 — Swedish Massage II
- 3 credits
- MASG 221 — Massage Clinical II
- 3 credits
- MASG 240 — The Business of Massage
- 2 credits
- MASG 250 — Myokinesiology II
- 3 credits
- MASG 260 — Advanced Massage Techniques
- 3 credits
View course descriptions.
Estimated Cost of Attendance