Massage therapy is a skill that you can use to help family and friends or to operate your own profitable business. The massage therapy curriculum outlined by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation covers basic massage therapy techniques, business practices, and a clinical internship in 500 contact hours. The foundational training is appropriate for state licensure and commencement of entry-level employment in hotels, spas, gyms, cruise ships, and more. However, you can build on the information as you continue to practice and advance to sports massage therapy, prenatal massage therapy, reflexology, shiatsu, stone massage, reiki, and other specialized areas in the field.
Massage therapy is regulated in Texas by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The TDLR will issue a license to practice as a massage therapist after you’ve completed a state-approved program and pass a criminal background check. Private practice is the way to go if you want to maximize your income earning potential. However, working for someone to gain experience is best when you’re just starting out. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to continue your education and develop in a specialized area – there are endless possibilities for growth.
As a massage therapist, your greatest joy will be the positive impact of your therapeutic touch on the lives of others. To provide immediate relief from stress and pain and witness the long-term rehabilitation from injuries will provide satisfaction beyond measure. These and other benefits of massage therapy are only available when you commence your career with a quality program that considers business operations and professional ethics on an equal footing with the best massage therapy techniques.
Houston School of Massage
The Houston School of Massage offers massage training that leads to an Associate degree. The program seeks to develop the power of touch combined with professionalism in business to promote the success of its graduates. Course topics include massage therapy techniques, human anatomy and physiology, human kinesiology, human pathology, human health and hygiene, business practices and professional ethics, hydrotherapy, and internship program. HSM offers small class sizes, experienced instructors, and lots of hands-on opportunities.
Program overview:
Associate Massage Therapy Program (AMTP)
Duration: 8 months
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Sign the enrollment agreement
- Have a high school diploma or GED
Program cost:
Affordable payment plans are available for all students.
Website: https://houstonschoolofmassage.com/
Address: 10600 Northwest Freeway Suite 202, Houston, Texas 77092
Phone: 713-0681-5275
Texas School of Massage
The Basic Massage Licensing Program offered by the Texas School of Massage includes theory and hands-on practice. The training seeks to educate students in the art of Swedish Massage Techniques and an understanding of the structure and function of the human body. Students will gain a first-hand understanding of the benefits of massage therapy through practical activities guided by the requirements of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Self-care, safety, proper movements during the administration of a massage, owning, operating, and marketing a massage therapy business, and massage techniques are other topics explored in the program. The class size is limited to a student/teacher ratio of 24:1 in the classroom and 12:1 in the practical room to ensure student participation. Graduates will be eligible to take the state licensure exam. Full-day, half-day, and evening classes are available.
Program overview:
Basic Massage Licensing Program
Duration: 8 months
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Sign the enrollment agreement
- Have a high school diploma or GED
Program cost:
Affordable payment plans are available for all students.
Website: https://texasschoolofmassage.com/
Address: 17043 El Camino Real #201, Houston, TX 77058
Phone: (281) 488-3903
Texas Health School
The Massage Therapy Program at Texas Health School provides students with administrative and clinical skills to practice as a professional Massage Therapist and apply for the Massage Therapy Exam to become licensed in the State of Texas. The Swedish Massage, including Swedish theory and techniques, will form the foundation of the program. The study of the human body is another critical part of the program that will prepare students to communicate effectively with health care professionals and develop programs for their clients. Courses include trigger point therapy, health and hygiene, hydrotherapy business practice and career plan, deep tissue massage, pathology, kinesiology, medical massage techniques, clinical and energy-based massage, pathology hot stones massage, pharmacology, professional law and ethics, and massage therapy exam prep. The program hours exceed the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation standards for licensing as a Massage Therapist. Morning and evening classes are offered. Morning classes meet Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 1:50 pm. Evening classes meet Monday through Thursday from 6:00 pm to 9:50 pm.
Program overview:
Massage Therapy Program
Duration: 8 months
Contact hours: 715
Prerequisites:
- Complete the program application form
- Pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) with a minimum score of 17
- Submit proof of high school diploma or GED
- Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
- Attend an interview with an admission representative
Program cost:
The estimated cost of tuition and fees is $14,220. Books and supplies cost an additional $445. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
Website: https://www.ths.edu/massage-therapy-program/
Address: 11511 Katy Freeway Suite 200 Houston, Texas 77079
Phone: 713-932-9333
Fax: 713-932-0313
Avalon Massage School
The Massage Therapist program at Avalon School of Massage prepares students for state licensure and entry-level employment in the industry. The training will include the art of Swedish massage, Thai/Yoga massage, and Shiatsu massage. Theoretical workshops in anatomy, kinesiology, and Chinese medicine will provide a foundation for practical activities. The theoretical component of the program is delivered online for students’ convenience. Students must complete a 12-week internship as part of the training. The program is accredited by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Classes meet 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The evening classes meet from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Program overview:
Basic Massage Licensing Program
Duration: 6 to 8 months
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Attend an interview and campus tour
- Submit an application for admission
- Must be 18 years or older
- Have a high school diploma or GED
Program cost:
Tuition for the program is between $6,000 and $7,970. It includes a set of scrubs, belt holster, pump jar, lotion, textbooks, and reading materials, and a set of sheets.
Website: https://www.avalonmassageschool.com/
Address: 2990 Richmond Ave, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77098
Phone: (713) 333-5250
Lone Star College
The Massage Therapy Certificate program at Lone Star College prepares adults with technical skills and competencies to practice as massage therapists. The training will emphasize the use of touch to reduce pain, decompress muscles, rehabilitate injuries, reduce stress, and promote health. Courses include health and hygiene, massage therapy fundamentals I, anatomy and physiology for massage, business practices and professional ethics, hydrotherapy/therapeutic modalities, kinesiology for massage, massage therapy fundamentals II, pathology for massage, and massage therapy internship. The program has the approval of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and complies with the rules of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations. Students who complete the program successfully with the eligible to sit for the Massage Therapy Licensing Exam.
Program overview:
Massage Therapy Certificate
Duration: 9 months
Credit hours: 23
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Take the school’s placement test
- Attend a new student orientation
- Submit a record of bacterial meningitis vaccination
Program cost:
Tuition costs $90 per credit for in-district students. Books, supplies, and fees are not included in the cost.
Website: https://www.lonestar.edu/programs-of-study/massage-therapy-certificate.htm
Address: 5000 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381
Phone: 832-813-6500
Laurel School of Massage
The massage therapy program at Laurel School of Massage prepares students with knowledge and skills to apply for the state exam to become a licensed massage therapist in Texas. The curriculum has its foundation in the theory and practice of massage. Course modules include Swedish massage, anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, hydrotherapy, business practices and ethics, health and hygiene, and massage internship. Classes meet five days a week or three days a week.
Program overview:
Massage Therapy Program
Duration: 6 months (full-time) 10.5 months (part-time)
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend an interview and campus tour
- Submit a completed application and enrollment form
- Must be 18 years of age
- Pay the application fee of $200
Program cost:
The program cost is $7,187. It includes books, school tee shirts, professional liability insurance, supplies, application fee, CPR instruction and certification, and student permit.
Website: http://www.laurelschoolofmassage.com/
Address: 16686 Champion Forest Dr. Spring, TX 77379
Phone: 832-969-0040
The Woodlands School of Massage Therapy
Students who successfully complete the massage therapy program at The Woodlands School of Massage Therapy will be eligible for state licensing after pass the massage therapy exam. The curriculum includes theory and practical work in Swedish massage, advanced massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, business practices and ethics, hydrotherapy, health and hygiene, and massage internship.
Program overview:
Massage Therapy Licensing Program
Duration: 7 months (full-time) 8 months (part-time)
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Attend an admission interview and school tour
- Fill out the student application and enrollment agreement
- Pay the $50 application fee to secure a seat in class
- Review and financial plans and make arrangements for payment
- Pay for the student kit
Program cost:
The program cost is $6,499. Books, uniforms, application fee, uniforms, and supplies are not included in the cost.
Website: https://woodlandsmassageschool.com/
Address: 18 Augusta Pines Dr., Ste. 205W, Spring, Texas, 77389
Phone: 281-367-7400
Institute of Cosmetology, Esthetics & Massage
The fundamental massage therapy program offered by the Institute of Cosmetology prepares adults for licensure in Texas. Students will learn the structure and function of the human body and their relation to the techniques of a Swedish massage. Theory and practical instruction will include self-care, hygiene and personal injury prevention, business practices and professional ethics, hydrotherapy, kinesiology, pathology, pharmacology, proper body mechanics, and client safety. The training includes a 50-hour internship to give students hands-on experience in the role and duties of a massage therapist. Graduates will have the skills to obtain their license and begin and operate a massage therapy business. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Program overview:
Fundamental Massage Therapy
Duration: 5 months
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Fill out and sign the enrollment contract
- Submit an official picture ID and social security number
- Provide two passport size photos
- Must understand written and verbal English
Program cost:
The total program cost of $4,995 includes tuition, books, supplies, and registration fee.
Website: https://www.cidescohouston.com/massage
Address: 7011 Harwin Drive, Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77036
Phone: (713) 783-9988
Email: info@CIDESCOhouston.com
HFE & Massotherapy School
HFE and Massotherapy School offers a state-licensed massage therapy program that prepares students for licensure as a massage therapist in Texas. The training will include theory and a hands-on clinical internship in a real-world environment. Course requirements include principles of massage techniques, kinesiology, anatomy, pathology, hydrotherapy, human health hygiene, business practices and ethics, and clinical internship. New classes start every two months. HFE offers small class sizes, proven curriculum, instruction in business skills and techniques, and development of entrepreneurial skills. Graduates will be eligible to take the state exam to become a licensed massage therapist.
Program overview:
Massage Therapy Certificate
Duration: 5.5 to 6 months
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Fill out and sign the enrollment contract
- Submit an official picture ID and social security number
- Must understand written and verbal English
Program cost:
Contact the school for a current schedule of classes and tuition.
Website: http://www.hfemassageschool.com/
Address: 4141 SW Fwy Ste 510 Houston, TX 77027
Phone: (713) 528-2097
Alt: (713) 960-1122
Asia-Pacific Massage Institute
Asia-Pacific Massage Institute School of Nature Therapies facilitates an accredited massage therapy program to prepare for state licensure. Graduates of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations approved program will have skills and knowledge to operate a successful massage business. Experienced instructors ensure that students’ success is the number one priority. Courses covered include Swedish Massage Therapy techniques, anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, hydrotherapy, health and hygiene, pathology, business practices, Thai traditional massage, Shiatsu or Trigger point therapy, acupressure, pregnancy massage, aromatherapy, and internship. Day and evening classes are offered.
Program overview:
Massage Therapy Certificate
Duration: 6 months
Contact hours: 500
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Have a valid government-issued license and social security number
- Must be able to communicate effectively in English
Program cost:
Tuition for the program is $4,900 if paid in full. The cost is $6,000 if paid in installments for 10 months. The cost of books and supplies must be added to the cost.
Website: http://www.apm-institute.com/home.html
Address: 1500 S Dairy Ashford Rd, Houston, TX 77077
Phone: 832-693-4477
Email: APMImanager@outlook.com
Serenity Massage School
The Basic Massage Therapy program offered by Serenity Massage School meets the requirements of the Texas Department of State Health Services. Theory and practical instruction provide students with entry-level knowledge of the skills required to become a licensed massage therapist in Texas. The school also offers an advanced course (comprising of 650 hours of instruction) that prepares students to market their businesses and enable longevity in their careers. Day and evening classes are offered. Day classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. Evening classes meet Monday through Thursday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Attend an interview and campus tour with the school’s director
- Pay the enrollment fee to reserve a seat in the class
- Pay the background check fee
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
- Must have no criminal convictions
Program cost:
The total cost of tuition and books is $6,984.19. Interest-free payment plans are available for all students.
Website: https://www.serenitymassageschool.com/aboutschool
Address: 40 N. Main Street, Kingwood, Texas 77339,
Phone: (281) 358-0401
Email: SerenityPLLC@gmail.com
San Jacinto College
San Jacinto College prepares adults for a career as a massage therapist in two semesters. The curriculum will emphasize massage therapy techniques, hydrotherapy, professional ethics, hygiene and sanitation, spa modalities, business practices, and professional ethics. First semester courses include hydrotherapy, health and hygiene, massage therapy fundamentals, anatomy and physiology for massage, and business practices and professional ethics. Second-semester courses include massage therapy fundamentals, pathology for massage, kinesiology for massage, and massage therapy internship. The clinical internship will give students the opportunity to work with clients and apply the theoretical principles covered in the beginning of the program. Full-time students can complete the program is two semesters.
Program overview:
Massage Therapy, Certificate of Technology
Duration: 5 months
Contact hours: 640
Credit hours: 24
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Attend an interview with an admission’s representative
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
- Pass a criminal background check
Program cost:
Tuition costs approximately $1,872 for in-district residents. Other costs include textbooks, uniforms, and supplies.
Website: https://www.sanjac.edu/career/massage-therapy
Address: 13735 Beamer Rd., Houston, TX 77089
Phone: 281-998-6150
Email: information@sjcd.edu