What to look for in a Massage School:

• Be sure that all Instructors have qualified credentials and training.
• The course should be at least 500 hours.
• The instructor to student ratio should be 1 to 10-12.
• You will be able to qualify for other State and National exams when finished.
• Is the school accreditted by a National Agency or organization.
• Cost.

Hints for Choosing the Right Massage Education Program.
Do your homework first!

• Learn about the profession of massage therapy, e.g. different methods of therapy, and the legal requirements in the jurisdiction in which you intend to practice.
• Collect information about several programs --attend an open house or orientation, interview former students, read catalogs, audit a class, or call the Better Business Bureau and/or vocation school office in your state.
• Consider your career intentions --some programs focus on relaxation massage techniques while others target remedial or medical applications.
• Review the curriculum to make sure that the style(s) of massage taught match what you want to learn.
• Be aware of time requirements for a particular program. Make sure your other obligations will allow enough time to study and practice outside of class.
• Examine the credentials and experience of the faculty.
• Find out whether the education philosophy of the program and the faculty agree with your own views about health, healing, and the purpose and use of massage therapy.
• Receive massage therapy sessions from the faculty, graduates, and/or student clinic.
• Request information about student services --postgraduate job placement, tutoring, continuing education, financial aid, etc.
• Consider tuition, fees, any other costs, the availability of financial aid, funds for a massage table, books, and supplies.

Determine which program most closely matches your career intentions, personality, schedule, and budget.