Course Descriptions

  • ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY FOR THE MANUAL THERAPIST - CHEMISTRY, FUNCTION, SYSTEM & STRUCTURE.

    This course introduces medical terminology and anatomical terms. Information includes overviews and study of the organization of the human body, including chemical, cellular, tissue, integumentary, bone, connective, and muscle tissues. Life processes, elementary cell anatomy and physiology, basic metabolism, and principles of support and movement including the skeletal system, muscular system, and articulations will be taught.

  • ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY FOR THE MANUAL THERAPIST-NEUROLOGY

    This course will explore internal workings of the human body and the nervous system and relationship to homeostasis. The brain, spinal cord, nerves, CNS, PNS, autonomic & somatic nervous systems, and a breakdown of the endocrine system will be discussed and explored, especially in relation to pain and pain response. Students will learn corresponding medical terminology.

  • ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY FOR THE MANUAL THERAPIST-CIRCULATORY

    This course will explore the heart, its functions, the respiratory system, and relating conditions. The lymphatic system and immunity’s relationship to the cardiovascular system will be studied. The course will cover the organs of the digestive system and how it relates to the urinary system. The reproductive system will be discussed, along with circulatory disorders. Students will learn corresponding medical terminology. Lymphatic massage will be discussed and demonstrated.

  • ETHICS, BUSINESS, & PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

    This course will introduce students to the history of massage and bodywork, the philosophies and theories behind the profession, and the origin of various modalities. It will also provide an in depth study of the laws, guidelines, and ethical practices relating to the licensed massage therapist. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of developing a successful massage practices. Students will develop strategies for networking, marketing, building a practice, preparing resumes, and interview skills, both verbal and clinical. Cleanliness and sanitation will also be discussed.

  • SWEDISH I

    This course will introduce students to the seven classic techniques of massage: static methods (touch), gliding (effleurage), torsion methods (petrissage), shearing methods (friction), oscillating methods (vibration), percussion methods (tapotement), and joint movements. Students will construct and practice a full body Swedish relaxation massage. Students will learn draping and bolstering techniques, proper body mechanics, and the physiological and mechanical effects massage has on the body. In order to successfully pass this course each student will provide confirmation that they receive a one hour (or more) full body massage from a licensed therapist.

  • SWEDISH II

    This course will reinforce skills learned in Swedish I and prepare students for a successful clinic experience. Students will also learn about CAM (Complementary Alternative Medicine), aromatherapies, and basic spa treatments. Students will learn how to use hot/cold stones for massage treatments, and engage in chair massage. Swedish II will afford students the opportunity to engage in chair massage events to broaden their experience.

  • MYOLOGY & PALPATION

    This course introduces an overview of muscle tissue anatomy, a detailed exploration of all of the major muscles organs of the axial and appendicular segments, their origins, insertions, actions, and innervations while learning to palpate them, and corresponding structures, on the human body.

  • KINESIOLOGY & ASSESSMENT

    This course will examine the human muscular system relating to movements, covering the biomechanics of locomotion while reviewing major muscles and continuing to develop palpation skills. Students will learn client consultation, basic assessment skills, documentation, progress charting, and treatment planning.

  • PATHOLOGY I

    This course will help the student understand the nature and course of human diseases, including those that would indicate massage and also contraindications to massage. Students will learn precautions, modifications, study universal precautions, infection control, CDC and OSHA standards, as well as become better able to understand conditions reported on intake forms and signs and symptoms for safer practices.

  • PATHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

    This course will teach students a broader range of assessment skills. The students will learn specific assessment tests along with typical patterns of dysfunction for common problems, including carpal tunnel and sciatica issues. Students will be able to identify pathologies and begin to learn techniques, and concepts behind the techniques, to treat them.

  • INTRODUCTION TO ADVANCED THERAPIES I

    This class will introduce students to the concepts of some common advanced therapy techniques, such as myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, neuromuscular facilitation, and structural integration. This class takes a more in depth look into articulations, connective tissues, and the science behind hypertonicity. Students will use these concept skills in conjunction with their assessment skills and have the opportunity to work on pathological dysfunctions under the supervision of their instructor in class.

  • INTRODUCTION TO ADVANCED THERAPIES II

    This class will introduce students to the concepts of some common advanced therapy techniques, such as cranio-sacral therapies, gua sha & scraping, cupping, and the use of common tools (non-powered & powered). Students will also be introduced to the use of CBD, as it pertains to massage therapy.Students will practice using all skills learned in the program and begin to develop a therapeutic massage protocol to use along with their Swedish techniques in fourth quarter Clinic. Students are expected to be confidently prepared to begin Clinic by week 5 and must be approved for Clinic during weeks 5 or 6 of this class.

  • CAPSTONE SCIENCE & CLINIC MASSAGE

    This capstone course provides students with a comprehensive program review and prepares them for the MBLEx certification. Students will review material from all previous classes and sit for practice MBLEx examinations. Additionally and under the direction of a Licensed Massage Therapist, students will implement the massage techniques and business practices learned during the program. Students will be expected to perform a minimum of 25 full body massage treatment in a formal setting onsite. Students will perform intake interviews and assessments, create treatment plans, maintain records, and communicate in a meaningful way with clients. Students will also be expected to pass a basic CPR and First Aid training course. Students will schedule their MBLEx exams at a testing center of their choosing during this class to be taken in MMT295.

  • CAPSTONE PRACTICAL & CLINIC MASSAGE

    This capstone course provides students with a comprehensive program review and prepares them for the MBLEx certification. Students will review material from all previous classes and sit for practice MBLEx examinations. Additionally and under the direction of a Licensed Massage Therapist, students will implement the massage techniques and business practices learned during the program. Students will be expected to perform a minimum of 25 full body massage treatment in a formal setting onsite. Students will perform intake interviews and assessments, create treatment plans, maintain records, and communicate in a meaningful way with clients. In order to successfully pass this course each student is expected to provide documentation that they performed a full body massage on a Licensed Massage Therapist. Students will sit for their previously scheduled MBLEx exams during this class at the testing center of their choosing.