The US Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment of massage therapists to grow by 19% between 2008 and 2018, much faster than the average for all other occupations. Job opportunities should be best for qualified individuals that receive certification through an accredited massage therapy program. Recent graduates may find work part time in spas, hotels, hospitals, physical therapy centers, and other businesses until they can build a client base of their own. Membership in a professional organization, like the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), can help build strong contacts and help new massage therapists further establish themselves within the profession.

An online massage therapy certification program typically includes coursework in areas like:

• Physiology
• Massage History and Theory
• Massage Techniques and Practice
• Assessment
• Ethics

Specialization is available in a number of areas like Medical, Infant Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Sports Massage, and Deep Tissue Massage. Those looking to own their own practice may also benefit from study of HIPAA and Medical Records Law, Practice Management, and Marketing Massage Therapy Services.

Finding the best online or campus program means finding a degree that fits your lifestyle and is in line with your academic and career goals. Whether you've just graduated high school or you're going back to school as an adult, accredited online and campus degrees in massage therapy have helped many further their education and achieve success by pursuing a new and rewarding career.