Massage Therapy Program

Massage Therapy Program

Are you looking for a new career where you can help people in a meaningful way? The therapeutic benefits of massage therapy and bodywork are widely recognized. Documentation on the effects of massage show that it improves circulation can help heal sports injuries, alleviate stress, headaches and other aches and pains. Massage therapists treat clients by using touch to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues to aid in the general wellness of clients. 

Community College of Philadelphia’s Massage Therapy program meets the Commonwealth’s requirements for massage therapy training and state licensure program. Students will gain the required knowledge and competencies necessary for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx). The MBLEx is governed by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is designed to provide a standard examination for students of Massage for entry-level professional scope of practice in gaining licensure. We are proud to provide quality education and hands-on learning experience for our students. In 2022 data, Community College of Philadelphia's Massage Therapy program pass rate for the MBLEx is 86.4%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 64%.

CCP’s Massage Therapy program provides 604 hours of in-class (didactic and clinical) instruction that meets the Pennsylvania State Laws and Requirements in the following areas:

  • Anatomy and Physiology, Kinesiology and Pathology, including training in the human immunodeficiency virus and related risks
  • Massage therapy and bodywork assessment, theory and practice including sanitation, safety and hygiene
  • Professional ethics, business and law related to a massage therapy business
  • Required contact hours in related courses appropriate to a massage therapy curriculum including cardiopulmonary resuscitation

How long are classes?

This program will complete within 604 classroom hours + 46 clinic hours. See below for specific program schedule. 

Additional clinical hours require hands on practice that occurs outside of regularly scheduled class time. This will take place on designated days following the successful completion of Basic Massage training.

Job Outlook *

  • Employment is projected to grow 32 percent from 2020 to 2030
  • Growth is much higher than the average for all occupations
  • Increase in demand for these services will lead to new openings

*U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics

Work Environment

  • Massage therapists work in array of settings, including spas, franchised clinics, physicians’ offices, hotels and fitness centers. Some massage therapists are self-employed

Accreditation

Cost

  • Tuition Cost: $7,900 + an additional $35, one-time, non-refundable application fee
    • Payment plans available
  • Additional cost:
    • Uniforms (scrubs) are required and must be purchased prior to the course.
    • Students are responsible for purchasing required textbooks and supplies prior to the start of class. 

Can I Receive Financial Aid for this program?
The Massage Therapy program is eligible for financial aid. Students who wish to apply for financial aid at Community College of Philadelphia need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  The FAFSA form is free, so there's no reason not to apply. 

FAFSA is the required application for state, federal and institutional financial aid. This includes grants, scholarships, and loans. 

When do I need to submit my FAFSA?
If you are interested in the program, please submit your FAFSA application now.  Visit the college’s Financial Aid page for additional steps to apply for financial aid. Community College of Philadelphia School Code is: 003249. View our Massage Therapy Financial Aid 101 video to help you get started.

Noncredit Program Refund Policy
Refunds for noncredit programs will be granted if the class is canceled or if you withdraw no later than the day before the first class. Refunds are not available after class begins.

Get Started Now

Prospective participants must hold a high school diploma or GED; have proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking skills), be at least eighteen (18) years of age, and complete a criminal background check*), and current CPR Certification

*Resources -
Community College of Philadelphia also offers an American Red Cross BLS/CPR Certification course that meets the requirements for the Massage Therapy program. Criminal convictions that may constitute grounds to refuse a licensee. ACT 53 Information for individuals with criminal convictions who are considering an occupation or profession that requires licensure. 

After completing the online application form, candidates must have all documentation completed and uploaded to Electronic Forms in MyCCP portal. Only complete application packets will be considered for admission into the Massage Therapy Program. Seats will be secured on a first come first serve basis, based on receipt of all required documentation. 

Email csinquiry@ccp.edu with questions or to request more information. 

Course Dates and Times

Date and Times Location Course Cost/Fees Register
Fall 2024 Schedule TBA
In-Person Class
12901 Townsend Road 
Philadelphia PA 19154
Tuition: $7,900 Click to Apply

Course Hours: 604 + 46 Clinic Hours 

Please begin your FAFSA application now.