As of 2009, there were 42 states, including Arizona, that required state licensure to practice massage. Massage therapists in Arizona are required to complete 700 hours of training from an accredited school in order to obtain a state license. Students are also required to take the national exam or meet exemption requirements.
Types
Massage programs are offered at technical schools, community colleges and massage schools. While technical schools and community colleges offer a variety of programs, massage schools typically offer programs only in the massage and holistic health field. Most technical and massage schools offer certificate programs only. Some community colleges, such as Central Arizona College, offer an associate of science degree to those who complete the massage program.
Accreditation
According to the Arizona Massage Therapy Board, students who graduate from a school in Arizona that is approved by the U.S Board of Education are exempt from taking the national exam. Most schools in Arizona have received this approval. Those that have not tend to offer programs that specifically prepare students to pass the national exam.
Program Types
Some schools, such as the Sedona School of Massage, offer intensive programs of study in which students complete the required 700 or more hours in a relatively short time, usually four or five months. Students usually attend class all day, five to six days a week for these few months. Other schools, such as Pima Community College, offer more flexible schedules. Day, weekend and evening classes are offered, with students taking classes at their own pace. These programs could take years to complete.
Courses
In addition to specific classes in massage techniques, most schools require students to take courses such as anatomy and physiology, kinesiology and ethics. Most schools will also allow a certain amount of elective courses after required courses have been completed. For example, at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts, after completing the required courses, students can choose from courses such as reflexology or aromatherapy.
Tuition
Tuition varies from school to school, as does financial aid. For example, tuition at one school in 2009 was $5,000 for the entire program, but the same program at another school cost $9,750. Some schools are able to offer loans through the Federal Student Aid Programs. Schools that are not approved to participate in federal programs will often help students secure loans from a local bank.
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