| Published By – GD College | Reviewed By – Jasreen Raien |
Have you ever dreamed of helping people feel better, reduce stress, and improve their overall wellness? Becoming a massage therapist can be a gratifying career, both personally and professionally. But one of the most common questions aspiring therapists ask is: “How long does it take to become a massage therapist?”
The answer depends on several factors, including the state or country in which you live, the type of massage you wish to practice, and whether you study full-time or part-time. In this article, we’ll explore how long massage therapy training takes, what’s involved in getting licensed, and what you can expect as you start your journey into this growing field.
Why Choose a Career in Massage Therapy?
Before we dive into timelines, let's look at why massage therapy is such an appealing profession:
- High demand: People are increasingly seeking alternative health and wellness services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average for all occupations.
- Flexibility: Many massage therapists work flexible schedules or run their businesses.
- Rewarding work: Helping clients relieve pain, reduce stress, or recover from injuries brings a strong sense of purpose.
- Diverse opportunities: You can specialize in sports massage, medical massage, spa therapy, and more.
How Long Is Massage Therapy School?
The time it takes to complete massage therapy school varies widely. In the United States, most massage therapy programs require between 500 and 1,000 hours of training. However, requirements differ from state to state.
Types of Massage Therapy Programs
Certificate Programs
500–600 hours
- Shorter, focused programs
- Ideal for entry-level therapists
- May be completed in 6–9 months
Diploma Programs
700–900 hours
- More in-depth training
- Often include business classes
- Typically 9–12 months
Associate Degree
1,000+ hours
- General education + massage training
- May take 18–24 months
- Good for management roles
What Do You Learn in Massage Therapy School?
Massage therapy isn’t just about learning techniques – it’s a combination of science, art, and hands-on practice.Here’s what’s typically included in your training hours:
➤ Client assessment and treatment planning
➤ Ethics and professional boundaries
➤ Business and marketing skills
➤ Hands-on clinical practice
➤ Anatomy & physiology
➤ Kinesiology (study of body movement)
➤ Pathology (understanding diseases)
➤ Massage techniques (Swedish, deep tissue, sports, etc.)
Licensing and Certification: How Long Does It Take?
Graduating from massage school is just part of the journey. You'll also need to become licensed or certified in your state or region.
1. Complete Approved Training
You must graduate from a state-approved massage therapy program.
2. Pass an Exam
Many states require licensing for massage. This exam typically takes about 2–3 hours.
3. Apply for a License
Application processes vary by state and may take a few weeks to a couple of months.
4. Background Checks
Some states require fingerprinting and background checks, which can add time.
Total Timeline
6-12 months – Complete a massage therapy program
1-3 months – Prepare for and pass the licensing exam
Total time: About 7-15 months
How Much Does Massage Therapy School Cost?
Cost is another factor that influences how quickly you can start working. On average, massage therapy school costs range from CA$5,000 to CA$15,000, depending on:
Program length
School reputation
Location
Included supplies and fees
Career Outlook and Income Potential
Wondering whether it’s worth it? Here’s some good news:
- The median annual wage for massage therapists in Canada was CA$49,860 in 2023, with top earners making over CA$79,000 annually.
- Opportunities are expanding in healthcare facilities, spas, resorts, sports teams, and private practice.
- Many massage therapists enjoy flexible schedules, self-employment, and the freedom to choose their specialty.
Tips for Becoming a Massage Therapist Faster
Research Early
Know your state’s licensing hours and exam requirements
Study While in School
Don’t wait until after graduation to prepare for licensing
Network Early
Make industry connections to secure jobs quickly
Attend Full-Time
The fastest route through school is full-time enrollment
Final Thoughts: Your Path to Becoming a Massage Therapist
So, how long does it take to become a massage therapist? The short answer is:
- About 6-12 months of school for full-time students
- An additional 1-3 months for licensing
- A total of 7-15 months for many people to launch their careers
In under two years, you could be helping people feel better every day, while building a flexible, fulfilling career for yourself.
