Becoming a Massage Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
There are several schools that offer massage therapy training. Utah College of Massage Therapy has campuses in both Salt Lake Valley and Utah Valley. Some of the benefits of this program are that you can graduate in as little as 7.5 months if you study full-time, they offer financial aid, and you can choose evening or daytime classes. The Utah College of Massage Therapy rounds out its program with substantial hands-on training in its student clinic and help with career placement.
Another option is the Myotherapy College of Utah, located right in Salt Lake City. This course of study also takes about 7.5 months to complete and the college offers financial aid to those who qualify. With instruction in over 20 styles of massage therapy and small class sizes, as well as flexible class schedules and hands-on training, the Myotheraphy College of Utah is an excellent choice when you’re looking to become a certified massage therapist.
A third option is the Massage Therapy Degree Program offered at Broadview University. This program takes closer to a year to complete and prepares you to perform several different forms of massage, including Swedish, hot stone, and deep tissue. As with the other programs mentioned, you will also learn about the business of running your own massage therapy practice, if you’re interested in being self-employed.
Massage Therapy Certification Process
Once you’ve put in the hours and completed your massage therapy training, it’s time to become licensed by the state. To become licensed by the state, you need to complete your massage therapy education and submit an application for licensure available at the website for the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. The application includes background information, proof of graduation from an approved program, and a short exam to test your understanding of Utah laws regarding massage therapy.
Beyond state licensure, you might also want to consider becoming certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Certification by the NCBTMB shows potential clients and employers that you took an extra step toward qualification and represents a commitment to your career and to your practice. The NCBTMB also maintains a directory of certified therapists and certification through them might help attract clients and employers. To be certified, you must pass an exam, complete an approved program of study, become certified in CPR, and pass a background check, among other requirements.
If you are looking to become a massage therapist in Salt Lake City, there are several programs of study that will provide the education necessary to become a licensed massage therapist. With flexible class schedules, impressive course offerings, and convenient campus locations, you’re sure to find a program that works for you.