Massage Therapy (Accelerated) MSG

Holland Code: S (Social)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Literacy Need to be able to read and understand published information; over 50 books are listed as “required” reading on the College of Massage Therapy of Ontario (CMTO) website Some written essay work required.

Math & Science Have an interest and background in anatomy, chemistry, basic biology and/or exercise science.

Technology Basic computer skills recommended (Microsoft Office suite, Internet, checking student portal daily).

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Comfortable sharing personal space for extended periods of time
• Able to communicate professionally with a diverse population
• Interested in health and wellness issues
• Critical thinking skills
• Interested in on-going learning; continuing education is required to remain a certified massage therapist
• Excellent listening skills
• Friendly, outgoing personality and caring attitude
• Good time management and organizational skills
• Perform in an ethical manner in working with peers, health care staff, patients and customers
• Able to empathize with others
• Enjoy working with and caring for people
• Able to communicate with people across the lifespan

Useful background experience for this program would be

Involvement in sports or coaching sports; an interest in health and fitness; and/or enjoy dealing with and helping people.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a …

Registered Massage Therapist.

Places you may find yourself employed include …

Chiropractic clinics, physiotherapy clinics, naturopath clinics, spas, health and wellness centres, gyms, nursing homes, sport team rosters, cruise ships, hospitals, or self-employed.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Massage therapists may operate private practices or work as part of multidisciplinary health care teams. They usually work with one client at a time.
• Therapists who travel to client offices and homes must lift and move equipment that weighs up to 10 kilograms.
• The work can be strenuous and requires standing for long periods of time.
• Hours of work depend on the work setting and the physical capability of the individual therapist.
• Many massage therapists work evenings and weekends, or part time hours in several different locations. May be required to work shifts including evenings, weekends and holidays

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Conduct client assessments to determine the most appropriate courses of treatment
• Explain procedures, risks and benefits to clients and inform client that they have the right to refuse, stop or alter procedures at any time
• Administer appropriate massage techniques (soft tissue manipulation, relaxation techniques, soft tissue stretching techniques, manual pressure to specific points on the body, hydrotherapy, manual stripping or cross-fibre friction of muscle tissue, trigger point therapy, joint play and mobilizations, lymphatic drainage techniques)
• Suggest appropriate home care and provide information about techniques for postural improvement and stretching, strengthening, relaxation and rehabilitative exercises
• Consult with other health care professionals such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, physicians and psychologists to develop treatment plans for clients
• Obtain, maintain and securely store treatment records
• Complete reports and respond to enquiries from insurance companies as required

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Certificate of Registration from the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario
• College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO)
• Registered Massage Therapists Association of Ontario (RMTAO)
• Canadian Sport Massage Therapists Association (CSMTA)
• Natural Health Practitioners of Canada (NHPC)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Course work may be used as a basis of university admission or credits may transfer to a university degree at many different schools. More information.

Last Modified: January 15, 2024