Massage Therapy as a Career

Training/Education Requirements

There are 33 states that regulate practicing standards of massage therapists.  Nearly all 33 states require a minimum of 500 hours of training and passing an examination to practice massage therapy.  Some states require 1,000 hours of training prior to beginning a career in massage therapy.  It is practical to check out your state requirements before choosing a program.  Since 1992, individuals have been required to pass the National Certification for Therapeutic Massage and Body Work (NCTMBW).  Those who pass this exam become eligible to practice massage therapy and can use the initials NCTMBW.  You must meet education requirements prior to taking the examination, which is another reason to research your training or education program.  Most students take this exam shortly after graduation. 

Join Professional Associations

Joining a professional association after certification can enhance your career.  American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is an organization that provides benefits, programs and other services to members that will improve their careers.  To join AMTA, the massage therapist must have completed a 500 hour minimum of courses and obtained a license.  Joining fee is roughly $235 dollars plus a chapter fee.  AMTA also offers a student membership at an affordable price of $79 plus a chapter fee.  Students must be enrolled in a 500 hour program to join the association.  Through this association, students gain a better understanding of the massage profession and techniques before beginning their career.