Best Massage Therapy Schools In Illinois

Looking for the Best Massage Therapy Schools In Illinois? You’re not alone. As demand for holistic and alternative healthcare grows, so does the interest in quality massage therapy education. Many are drawn to this rewarding career due to its high job satisfaction and promising income potential.

I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the ideal school for your needs. In this article, we’ll cover:

• The Best Massage Therapy Schools in Illinois
• Key factors to consider when selecting a school
• Licensing and certification requirements

Let’s get started on finding the perfect massage therapy program for you!

Why Consider Massage Therapy as a Career?

Benefits of Becoming a Massage Therapist

Choosing massage therapy as a career offers numerous benefits that make it an appealing option for many. Firstly, job satisfaction in this field is remarkably high. According to a survey by the American Massage Therapy Association, 88% of massage therapists express immense satisfaction with their work. The tactile and therapeutic nature of the profession allows you to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, which can be incredibly rewarding.

Income Potential and Career Growth

Massage therapy also offers compelling income potential and career growth. As of May 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the median annual wage for massage therapists at $43,620. Moreover, the demand for massage therapists continues to grow. Employment in this field is projected to soar by 32% from 2020 to 2030, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.

Flexibility and Opportunities

A career in massage therapy provides flexibility and various work environments. You can work in wellness centers, spas, healthcare facilities, or even start your own practice. This flexibility allows for a work-life balance that is difficult to achieve in other professions. Additionally, specializing in areas like sports massage or clinical massage can further enhance your career.

What to Look for in a Massage Therapy School

Accreditation

When choosing a massage therapy school, accreditation is paramount. Accredited schools meet stringent educational standards, ensuring you receive quality education. Look for schools accredited by the Commission for Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA).

Curriculum and Hands-On Training

A comprehensive curriculum is vital. It should cover anatomy, physiology, pathology, and various massage techniques. Equally important is hands-on training. Ensure the program offers at least 500 contact hours of hands-on training, as required for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).

Facilities and Student Support Services

Consider the facilities and student support services available. Adequate space and equipment for practical sessions are crucial for effective learning. Student support services, such as career counseling and job placement assistance, can significantly aid in transitioning to the workforce.

Top-Rated Massage Therapy Programs in Illinois

Illinois boasts several top-rated massage therapy schools that provide comprehensive training programs. Let’s explore some of these institutions.

Pacific College of Health and Science – Chicago

Program Details

The Pacific College of Health and Science in Chicago offers a well-rounded Massage Therapy Certificate program. This program includes 500 contact hours and is priced at approximately $9,900.

Curriculum and Unique Features

The curriculum integrates holistic care with modern massage therapy concepts. It covers a variety of techniques, including Swedish massage, sports massage, and more. Clinical rotations are a crucial part of the program, providing real-world experience.

Faculty and Accreditation

The faculty comprises experienced professionals dedicated to student success. The program is accredited by COMTA, ensuring high educational standards.

The Soma Institute

Program Overview

The Soma Institute, based in Chicago, features an intensive Clinical Massage Therapy Diploma program. This program, which lasts up to 62 weeks, offers 750 contact hours of training. The total cost is around $14,150.

Focus Areas and Training Approach

The program emphasizes hands-on training with small class sizes to ensure personalized attention. It covers various therapeutic techniques such as deep tissue massage and myofascial release. Students gain practical experience through clinical internships.

Unique Aspects

The Soma Institute prides itself on its student-centered approach. It provides various support services, including career counseling and job placement assistance, helping graduates smoothly transition into the professional world.

The next sections will continue with insights into other top massage therapy schools in Illinois, such as The New School for Massage, Bodywork & Healing, Estelle Medical Academy (European Massage Therapy School), and Zen Shiatsu. Furthermore, we will cover licensing and certification requirements in Illinois and explore career prospects for massage therapy graduates.

The New School for Massage, Bodywork & Healing

Program Details

The New School for Massage, Bodywork & Healing offers a robust Massage & Bodywork Diploma program. With 625 contact hours spread over 6.5 to 11 months, the program provides a comprehensive educational experience. The total program cost is approximately $9,600.

Curriculum and Unique Features

The curriculum covers core subjects like human sciences, diverse massage techniques, and professional development. The coursework ensures you gain a thorough understanding of various massage modalities such as Swedish, deep tissue, and trigger point therapy. The school places a strong emphasis on practical experience, ensuring you are well-prepared for real-world situations.

Educational Environment

Small class sizes foster an interactive, personalized learning environment. The New School focuses on quality education, ensuring a high faculty-to-student ratio. This approach facilitates individual attention and a deeper understanding of the material.

Estelle Medical Academy (European Massage Therapy School)

Program Overview

At the Estelle Medical Academy, also known as the European Massage Therapy School, you will find a Professional Massage Therapy Program designed to meet diverse student needs. The program comprises 610 contact hours and costs around $9,900.

Curriculum Highlights

The contents of the program encompass fundamental massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, and business ethics. The curriculum ensures you are well-versed in both the scientific and practical aspects of massage therapy.

Flexible Learning Options

The program offers flexible schedules to accommodate different lifestyles, including full-time and part-time options. This flexibility makes it easier for you to balance your education with other commitments. Additionally, the school provides flexible payment plans, aiding financial manageability.

Accreditation and Career Services

The European Massage Therapy School is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). They also offer job placement assistance and career counseling, helping you navigate your career path post-graduation.

Zen Shiatsu

Program Details

Zen Shiatsu, located in Evanston, IL, offers a specialized Shiatsu Massage Therapy Diploma. The program includes 715 hours of training and costs about $12,714.43.

Philosophy and Training Approach

Zen Shiatsu focuses on traditional Japanese techniques designed to restore balance within the body. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, covering not just Shiatsu but also Eastern medicinal theories and anatomy.

Educational Outcomes

This program emphasizes holistic healing and energy work, preparing you for specialized roles in healthcare and wellness settings. Graduates often pursue careers that integrate these ancient techniques with modern therapeutic practices.

Accreditation and Support Services

The program is accredited by COMTA, ensuring a high standard of education. Zen Shiatsu also offers career services to support your transition into the workforce, making it a supportive and nurturing environment for your studies.

Understanding Licensing and Certification

Licensing Requirements in Illinois

To practice as a massage therapist in Illinois, you need to meet specific licensing requirements. At least 600 hours of education from an accredited institution is mandatory. This ensures you have a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of massage therapy.

Steps to Achieve Licensure

1. Complete your education: Enroll and graduate from a recognized massage therapy program with a minimum of 600 hours of instruction.
2. Pass the MBLEx: The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination is a critical step toward licensure.
3. Background Check: Undergo a fingerprint-based background check.
4. Apply for Licensure: Submit your application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), accompanied by a $175 fee.

Continuing Education

Maintaining your license involves ongoing education. This ensures you stay updated with the latest techniques and industry standards. Regular refreshers and new certifications can make you more competitive in the job market.

Career Prospects for Massage Therapy Graduates

Employment Opportunities

Graduating from a massage therapy school in Illinois opens a myriad of career opportunities. You can work in spas, wellness centers, healthcare facilities, or even start your own practice. The versatility of the profession means you can choose an environment that best suits your skills and interests.

Salary Expectations

In Illinois, the average salary for a massage therapist is approximately $59,765 annually. However, this can vary based on experience, speciality, and location. Additional certifications or specializations can enhance your earning potential.

Job Growth

The field of massage therapy is experiencing rapid growth. As more people seek alternative therapies for relaxation and health, the demand for skilled massage therapists continues to rise. This growing demand ensures better job security and opportunities for advancement.

Professional Development

Engaging in continuous professional development can significantly boost your career. Many massage therapists expand their skill sets by learning new techniques or specializations, such as sports massage or aromatherapy. This not only increases your marketability but also your ability to provide comprehensive care for your clients.

Looking for Massage Therapy School Information On States Bordering Illinois?

In addition to Illinois, we suggest looking for schools in nearby states.

• Best Massage Therapy Schools In Wisconsin
• Best Massage Therapy Schools In Iowa
• Best Massage Therapy Schools In Missouri
• Best Massage Therapy Schools In Kentucky
• Best Massage Therapy Schools In Indiana

Conclusion: Embark on Your Massage Therapy Journey

Embarking on a career in massage therapy is both rewarding and promising. By choosing the right school, you set the foundation for a successful career. Take the next step by considering these top-rated massage therapy schools in Illinois. Investing in quality education will pave the way for a fulfilling and lucrative career path in the growing field of massage therapy.

For further insights and guidance, explore the extensive guide to top schools in Illinois: Massage Therapy Schools in Illinois