Program Overview

MASSAGE THERAPY

Biological and Health Sciences Division, Room B213, (847) 543-2042

https://www.clcillinois.edu/programs/biodv/massage-therapy
Degree: Certificate
Plan 21MS

This certificate program prepares students to achieve entry level competencies as massage therapists in sports clinics, salons, spas, hospitals, private practice, nursing homes, hospices, wellness centers, and other health care and recreational settings.

Successful completion of 1 (or 2) pre-requisite course plus 2 semesters in our 9-month or 3 semesters in our 12-month full-time cohort program prepares students to complete the federal licensing exam (MBLEx). Students are then eligible to apply for licensure in Illinois and most other states.

This certificate is 27.5 credit hours (600 clock hours). The 9-month program starts every Fall (August) and continues through Spring semester (May). The 12-month program starts every Spring (January), includes summer session, and continues through Fall semester (December).

All massage therapy courses are to be completed at CLC and are offered at the Southlake Campus in Vernon Hills. All courses comprise the Massage Therapy Program: individual courses may not be taken (except for MAS 119).

Academic Program Entrance Requirements

To be considered for admission into the Massage Therapy Program, student records must indicate the following:

• Prior to enrolling in MAS 119 Introduction to Massage Therapy:

• 18 years of age or older

• Prior to enrolling in either the 9-month or 12-month full-time cohort program:

  • Complete KIN 228 First Aid/CPR with a minimum grade of “C” or better or provide a valid Basic Life Support (CPR and AED) and First Aid Certification card prior to enrollment in MAS 110

  • Attend a CLC Massage Therapy information session (within 2 years)

  • High school graduate or earned GED

  • College Reading and Writing Readiness

  • Provide a CLC Health Physical form completed by a professional healthcare provider - costs are borne by the student - department chair will provide instructions and forms to the student

  • Pass a fingerprint background check and urine drug screen – the results of these may result in a student losing their seat in the program - costs are borne by the student - department chair will provide instructions and forms to the student

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Non- Academic Entrance Requirements

Due to the inherent requirements of the massage therapy profession, the following minimum abilities or essential technical functions are expected of the student:

• Lifting, stretching, and standing over the course of 1-3 hours

• Use of a full range of motion of the joints and the ability to perform fine motor movements with the hands

• Ability to perform repetitive tasks such as stooping, bending, twisting, reaching and occasionally kneeling and squatting

• Good physical health and the ability to safely give and receive massages without risk of physical injury; students should consult a physician to determine whether giving or receiving massages might be harmful to their health in any way

• Ability to respond in an emotionally controlled, professional, and ethical manner at all times and in varied client care and educational situations

• Major medical health insurance is recommended for the length of the program; student insurance information is available through the CLC Health Center

• Willingness to give massages to (and receive massages from) people of different ages, body types, genders, sexual orientations, and personalities

• Prospective students are strongly encouraged to receive at least one massage from a licensed massage therapist; they are also strongly encouraged to make an appointment at the CLC Student Therapeutic Massage Clinic

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Other Academic Requirements

• Students must complete all 600 clock hours at CLC to be eligible to apply for licensure in the State of IL and most other states.

• Students must maintain a minimum grade of “C” in all MAS courses to continue in and graduate from the program

• Students must maintain a CLC GPA of 2.0 or higher to graduate with the Certificate in Massage Therapy

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An option to earn an A.A.S. in Health and Wellness Promotion with a specialty option in Massage Therapy is also available.

The below sequence of classes is for the 9-month program. The 12-month program sequence of courses includes all of the same courses but the sequence is adjusted to include required summer courses and is shared during the Massage Therapy Information session.

For more information on recommended courses and/or program specific advising, please contact the Department Chair, Joana Pabedinskas, at jpabedinskas@clcillinois.edu (or 847-543-2029) or the Biological and Health Sciences Division at (847) 543-2042.