Massage Therapy Schools in New York City, NY

Search Programs

Get information on programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Sponsored Search

As an increasingly informed population seek holistic and natural healthcare treatments, the demand for professional massage therapist will reach new heights. Massage therapists are trained to offer specialized care using innovative technology combined with traditional alternative techniques. The principles of massage therapy have been in existence for centuries. However, it is now gaining wider acceptance in the traditional healthcare system.

Massage therapy programs in New York lead to an Associate Degree and prepare students to take the New York State Licensure Exam to join a growing community of holistic practitioners. Licensure is required to practice massage therapy in the State. Therefore, it is advantageous to enroll in the state-approved therapeutic massage program. Completing such a program ensures that you’ll meet all other requirements to sit the state exam. The exam is issued twice a year in January and August.

Application for a massage therapy license includes a completed application, proof of completing high school or equivalent, graduation from a registered Massage Therapy program, passage of the written exam, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, proof of age, current CPR and First Aid certification, and a good moral character. If you can meet the requirements for licensure and are committed to the physical and emotional health of patients, then enrolling in a massage therapy program may be the first step to a rewarding career in holistic care.

Pacific College of Health and Science

Students enrolled in the Massage Therapies program at Pacific College of Health and Science will learn through theory and practical instructions. The program leads to an Associate of Occupational Studies in Massage Therapies. Experienced massage therapists will conduct practical training sessions during the clinical rotations. Participation in local health and wellness events will also provide opportunities for learning. Elective courses include pediatrics, sports massage, and reflexology. At the conclusion of the program, students will have knowledge of Asian and Western bodywork therapies.

Program overview:
Associate of Occupational Studies (Massage Therapies)
Duration: 2 years
Contact hours: 1207.5 hours
Units: 65.5 units

Courses:

Anatomy and Physiology I: Bones and Muscles, East/West Physiology I, Tui Na Hand Techniques, Philosophy and History of Asian Medicine, Public Safety Seminar, Public Safety and Counseling, Western Massage I, CPR/First Aid, Anatomy and Physiology II, Function of Organ Systems, East/West Physiology II, Qi Gong I, Acupoints for Massage Therapists, Myology for Postural Alignment, Western Massage II, Anatomy and Physiology III: Neuroanatomy, East/West Pathology, Orthopedic Assessment, Massage Practicum, Tui Na Structural Techniques, Introduction to Kinesiology, Orthopedic Sports Pathology, Tai Ji I, Biomedical Pathology for Massage Therapists, Western Massage III, Essential Oil for Massage Therapists, Massage Practicum II, Specialty Elective, Business Fundamentals for Massage Therapists, Integrated East/West Massage, Massage Practicum

Prerequisites:

  • Must provide evidence of a TOEFL/iBT score of 61:500 paper score
  • Provide official high school transcript, a certified copy of high school diploma or GED certificate, or results of a state-certified high school equivalency exam
  • Must have a high school GPA of 2.0 or above. Applicants who have completed 12 or more college general education credits with a GPA of 2.0 or above will be exempt. Applicants who cannot meet the requirements must take the Wonderlic Exam
  • Submit a completed Pacific College Application Form
  • Pay the non-refundable application fee of $50
  • Provide a current-full-face, passport size photo
  • Complete a personal statement describing the motivation for entering the field of massage therapy
  • Provide evidence of two doses of measles vaccination and one dose each of mumps and rubella
  • Attend an admissions interview

Program cost:
The cost of the program is $38,910. Books and supplies will cost an additional $1,350.

Website: https://www.pacificcollege.edu/
Address: 110 William Street, 19th Floor, New York, New York 10038
Toll-Free: 866-276-0717

Swedish Institute College of Health Science

The Massage Therapy program at the Swedish Institute delivers training in both Eastern and Western practices. Massage therapist instructors will use hands-on practice sessions to provide a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology, pathology, neurology, and kinesiology. Professional development, ethics, business practices, and client service will also have a substantial part of the training. Mastery of techniques will be supported through working with clients in the school’s P.H. Ling Stress Reduction Clinic and Therapeutic Clinic and at community service externships. These real-world practical sessions are necessary for a seamless transition to the workplace. Graduates will receive an Associate in Occupational Studies degree (AOS) and be eligible to take the New York State licensure exam. Candidates who pass the exam will earn the Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) credential. Morning, evening, and Saturday schedules are available.

Search Programs

Get information on programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Sponsored Search

Program overview:
Associate of Occupational Studies (Massage Therapies)
Duration: 20 to 32 months
Credits: 64

Courses:

Anatomy and Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology, Palpation, Freshman Student Success, Swedish Massage I, Professional Development & Ethics I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Neurology, Intro to Eastern Bodywork & Therapy, Swedish Massage II, Clinical Internship I, Tools of Assessment & Treatment, Shiatsu I, Off-Site Internship I, Pathology for the Massage Therapist I, Pathology for the Massage Therapist II, Professional Development & Ethics II, Applied Topics in Anatomy and Physiology, Assessment of Soft-Tissue Conditions, Advanced Western Techniques & Clinical Applications, Shiatsu II, Eastern Evaluation, Clinical Internship II, Professional Development & Ethics II, Off-Site Internship II, Professional Development & Ethics IV, Clinical Strategies: East & West, Clinical Internship III (Includes CPR/First Aid), Off-Site Internship III, Complementary Techniques, Elective

Prerequisites:

  • Be at least 18 years old or obtain parental consent
  • Must be a high school graduate or have a GED
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
  • Must be able to perform the procedures related to the profession
  • Take and pass the pre-admission test with an acceptable score
  • Attend an interview with a program dean or designee
  • Complete the reference form
  • Submit a completed Application for Admission and pay the application fee
  • Complete the admissions survey and personal statement
  • Must be willing to conduct a criminal background check
  • Provide documentation of immunization
  • Provide proof of physical exam, medical history, TB test, Hepatitis B and Tdap
  • Undergo a urine drug screen

Program cost:
The estimated cost of the program is $16,458 including books, fees, and miscellaneous expenses. Books and supplies will cost an additional $1,350.

Website: https://www.swedishinstitute.edu/massage-therapy/
Address: 226 West 26th St. New York, NY 10001
Phone: (212) 924-5900
Fax: (212) 924-7600

Mildred Elley

The Massage Therapy program at Mildred Elley leads to an Associate of Occupational Studies. The curriculum includes theory and practical coursework that cover a variety of techniques such as Thai and deep tissue massages. Small class sizes encourage one-on-one engagement with seasoned professionals who will use hands-on experiences to build confidence and technical abilities. The school’s Massage Clinic provides opportunities to apply skills in a public setting. Graduates will be qualified to take the New York State Massage Therapy Examination to become a Licensed Massage Therapist. The school offers flexible class schedules that can accompany personal and professional commitments. Lifetime job placement assistance is available for all graduates.

Program overview:
Massage Therapy Associate of Occupational Studies
Duration: 96 weeks
Clock hours: 1246
Credits: 72

Courses:

Medical Terminology, Western Massage I, Anatomy and Physiology I, Western Massage II, Anatomy & Physiology II, Myology and Kinesiology I, Pathology I, Neurology, Oriental Massage I, Myology and Kinesiology II, Myology and Kinesiology III, Pathology II, Professional Development and Ethics I, Myofascial Release Therapy, Neuromuscular Therapy, Professional Development and Ethics II, Oriental Massage II, Myology and Kinesiology: Palpation and Muscle Testing Lab, Craniosacral Therapy, Sports Massage, Clinic I, Reflexology, Clinic II, Massage Therapy Capstone Course, First Aid, CPR, & AED, Massage in a Healthcare Environment, Medical Massage, Polarity Therapy, Thai Massage, English Composition, Principles of Information Literacy, Oral Communications, Introduction to Psychology

Prerequisites:

  • Be a high school graduate or hold a High School Equivalency Diploma
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residence
  • Demonstrate proficiency in mathematics and natural sciences
  • Submit a completed application and non-refundable application fee of $25

Program cost:
Tuition costs $506 per credit hour. Other costs include textbooks, lab fee, CPR certification, massage table, Massage Board review class, and state exam fee.

Website: https://www.mildred-elley.edu/
Address: 25 Broadway, New York, NY 10004
Phone: (866) 878-0041

Queensborough Community College

Queensborough Community College offers the Massage Therapy program to prepare adults for state licensure. The program is registered with the New York State Education Department (NYSED). As part of the Healing Arts program, the massage therapy curriculum combines studies of the biological sciences with general education and liberal arts courses. Through lectures, lab demonstrations, and supervised real-world experiences, experienced instructors will cover Eastern and Western massage techniques. Small class sizes encourage one-on-one learning. Key benefits of the QCC Massage Therapy program are resident tuition rates, electives such as Sports Massage, Hospital-based Massage, and Pregnancy Massage, tutoring services, and the opportunity to take courses offered in the Doctor of Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy program. Graduates will receive an associate’s degree program in applied science (A.A.S.) and be prepared to fill the growing need for licensed massage therapists in New York City and surrounding areas. They will be eligible to take the New York State Licensing Examination for Massage Therapy. Part-time and full-time schedules are available.

Program overview:
AAS Massage Therapy
Duration: 2 years
Credits: 60

Courses:

English Composition I, Anatomy and Physiology I, Myology, Western Massage Therapy I, Foundations of Therapeutic Massage, English Composition II, Anatomy and Physiology II, Kinesiology, Eastern Massage Therapy I, Western Massage Therapy II, Mathematics in Contemporary Society, Neurophysiology, Eastern Massage Therapy II, Massage Practicum I, Pathology for Massage Therapy, Western Massage Therapy III, Psychology, Professional Issues in Massage Therapy, Massage Practicum II, Pathology for Massage Therapy II, Elective

Prerequisites:

  • Must hold a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Take and pass the CUNY Assessment Tests in Writing and Reading and the Mathematics Assessment Test
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residence
  • Submit a completed application and non-refundable application fee
  • Complete an annual medical examination. The medical form must be completed by a physician or nurse practitioner
  • Must have liability insurance
  • Current Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers certification

Program cost:
Tuition costs $2,400 per semester for full-time matriculated students or $210 per credit hour for part-time matriculated students. The costs of textbooks and supplies are not included in the program.

Website: https://www.qcc.cuny.edu/index.html
Address: 222-05, 56th Avenue Bayside, NY 11364
Phone: 718-631-6262

New York College Massage Teaching Clinic

The New York College of Health Professions School of Massage Therapy Program provides students with knowledge, skills, and techniques to work as practitioners of Massage Therapy. The curriculum includes theory and practical work in the principles of massage therapy and European massage. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the New York State licensing exam, as well as to sit for the National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.

Program overview:
Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) Massage Therapy
Duration: 24 months
Credits: 72

Courses:

Anatomy and Physiology I, Myology I, Fundamentals of Holistic and Public Health, Swedish Technique I, Intro to Physical Arts, Anatomy and Physiology II, Myology II, Swedish Technique II, Fundamental Theory/Channels & Points, Neurology, Medical Massage I, Swedish Practice Lab I, Asian Bodywork I, Reflexology, Tai’ Chi/Qi Gong/Yoga, Electives, Intro to Clinic 2, Kinesiology, Asian Bodywork II, Medical Massage II, Electives, Pathology I, Asian Bodyworks III, Massage Therapy Clinic I, Electives, Pathology II, Medical Ethics/Practice Management, Total Massage Review Course, Massage Therapy Clinic II, Electives

Prerequisites:

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Submit a completed application and non-refundable application fee of $45
  • Attend an interview with the Admissions Department
  • Take and pass the assessment test

Program cost:
Tuition costs $450 per credit hour. Students should expect to incur an additional cost of $2,000 for textbooks, supplies, and massage tables.

Website: https://www.nycollege.edu/
Address: Tower 45 9th Floor, 120 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
Phone: (212) 889-1005

How Long Does it Take To Become a Massage Therapist in New York City?

To become a licensed massage therapist in New York, you must complete an approved massage therapy program comprising of at least 1,000 clock hours of training. The average time to complete this requirement is 9 to 15 months depending on the class schedule. The associate degree option that is offered by most massage therapy programs in New York is designed to be completed in 24 months or 4 to 5 semesters.

How Much Does Massage School Cost in New York?

The cost of a massage therapy program in New York is determined by the institution. Private schools cost more than public schools. It also depends on the type of degree conferred. For instance, the Associate of Occupational Studies in Massage Therapy at Pacific College costs $39,000 compared to the a similar Associate Degree offered at Queensborough Community College which costs about $10,000. If you enroll in an accredited program, you may apply for financial aid to help ease the burden of high tuition rates. Student loans, grants, and scholarships may also be available. There is numerous education assistance programs for veterans as well.

How to Get into Massage Therapy School in New York?

In addition to the basic requirements, massage therapy school has strict requirements pertaining to health and moral fitness for licensure and practice.

You must

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Pass an admissions assessment
  • Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency
  • Complete a physical exam
  • Have current CPR certification
  • Attend an admission interview
  • Be able to meet the financial obligations of the program
  • Pass a criminal background check and drug screen

How Much Does a Licensed Massage Therapist Make in New York?

The annual average wage for a Licensed Massage Therapist in New York is $53,760. Your experience; job title, responsibilities, and location of employment will determine your salary.

How Do I Get a Massage Therapy License in NY?

The Office of Professions defines the practice of massage therapy as engaging in applying a scientific system of activity to the muscular structure of the human body by means of stroking, kneading, tapping and vibrating with the hands or vibrators for the purpose of improving muscle tone and circulation.

To obtain licensure as a massage therapist in New York, you will need to complete 1000 hours of massage therapy school training and successfully pass the state licensing exam. The training program must include coursework in anatomy, physiology, neurology, myology or kinesiology, pathology, first aid, CPR, hygiene, infection control procedures, and technique and practice of both oriental and western massage/bodywork therapy.

You will also need to:

  • be of good moral character;
  • be at least 18 years of age;
  • meet experience requirements (if applicable); and
  • have completed a course in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) within three years prior to licensure.

You will need to demonstrate English proficiency if English is not your first language.

The experience requirement is specifically for massage therapists licensed in another jurisdiction who may apply for licensure by endorsement.

To apply for licensure:

  • Submit a completed application for licensure
  • Pay the licensure and first registration fee of $108 – A personal check or money order should be made out to the New York State Education Department

The Department of Education will authorize you to take the exam once you meet all requirements for licensure – except citizenship. The exam is offered twice a year – in February and August. The deadline for submitting your application is November 1 for the February exam and June 1 for the August exam.

The exam scheduling application must be submitted to Measure Learning

Limited Permits

You may qualify for a limited permit if you meet all of the licensure requirements except the examination. The New York State Education Department will issue the limited permit if your submitted documents meet their approval.

The limited permit may be used to practice massage therapy only under the personal, on-site supervision of an individual licensed and currently registered to practice massage therapy in New York State. It will expire within one year of the issue date or until the results of the first examination are available. The limited permit cannot be issued if you previously failed a massage therapy exam or held a permit.

A limited permit may not be used for private practice.

You may apply for a limited permit at the same time or anytime after submitting an application for licensure. The limited permit fee is $35.