Massage therapy is one of the oldest natural health methods still in practice. It is considered a clinically validated treatment for a variety of ailments, disorders, and anxiety. Our daily stress burdens our spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. To alleviate the impacts of these daily stresses, massage therapists employ holistic massage therapy techniques that integrate Eastern bodywork traditions with Western science. Individuals seeking natural techniques of restoring equilibrium among the body’s complex systems choose massage therapy as an alternate method of healing.
San Diego has several integrative health centers and massage therapy schools that train individuals to become highly qualified massage therapists for a fulfilling career.
As part of our holistic studies, the Professional Massage Therapist program trains your body and mind to work as a licensed Massage Therapist in the state of California. You will master advanced anatomy and kinesiology and apply that knowledge to the bodywork skills you gain throughout the program.
We offer training in both Eastern and Western modalities, such as Asian bodywork therapies, sports massage, therapeutic massage, deep tissue, basic and advanced Swedish techniques, and special populations. We also have a course dedicated to starting your own massage therapy business that will give you a working business plan as you complete our program.
ICOHS College maintains an average student-teacher ratio of 10:1, ensuring all students receive the attention, instruction, and care they deserve.
“Students come first!”
All courses are 90 clock hours for a total of 630. This program exceeds the minimum 500 hours required to apply for a professional license from the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMCT).
Introduction to Swedish Massage, Chair Massage, Body Mechanics and Anatomy, Professional Ethics
Tui Na, Chi Nei Tsang, Chi Integration, TCM Theory, Cupping, Associated Pathways
Advanced Swedish, Sports, and Prenatal
Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Medical Terminology, and Special Populations
Manikins and Deep Tissue Manipulations
Kinesiology and Client Assessment
Resume and Interviewing Building, Business Practices, Practicum, Community Outreach
Upon graduation, students will continue to enjoy the amazing benefits of ABMP with their FREE first year of professional membership with liability insurance.
Tuesday – Thursday
9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Monday – Thursday
5:45 PM – 10:15 PM
*The course schedule is subject to availability. ICOHS College is a Clock Hour school, and the ability to complete the program is based heavily on attendance. Courses are currently on-campus, and students are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of course hours to pass each class and graduate.
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ICOHS is a certified massage therapy school in San Diego.
Along with the Certificate of Completion students receive from ICOHS College, graduates are qualified to apply for a License from the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC), which legally allows you to practice massage in California.
ICOHS College supports all graduates throughout the process of obtaining licensure, reimburses the $200 application fee, and equips them with the necessary skill to excel in the massage profession.
California Massage Therapy Council Approved School
One of ICOHS College's cornerstones is Students Come First, and one of the ways we can do so is through our instructor-to-student ratio and intensive hands-on training. In addition, we maintain a class size where instructors can focus on the needs of each student. As a result, students get hours of hands-on training with direct feedback from their instructors, giving them the confidence to succeed in their careers.
One of ICOHS College's cornerstones is Students Come First, and one of the ways we can do so is through our instructor-to-student ratio and intensive hands-on training. In addition, we maintain a class size where instructors can focus on the needs of each student. As a result, students get hours of hands-on training with direct feedback from their instructors, giving them the confidence to succeed in their careers.
Program length will vary. The Professional Massage Therapist program from ICOHS College lasts approximately nine months and is based on a total of 630 clock hours.
Currently, you do not currently need a massage license in San Diego. However, massage businesses are considered police-regulated businesses within the city. These establishments must only employ individuals with a certification from the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) to avoid pursuing a police permit. Currently, the SDPD issues very few permits for massage establishments.
You do not currently need to take the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEX) in the State of California, but our program prepares you for this exam as States differ in their requirements and we want our students to be prepared for any state licensing requirements.
Our Student Services team is here to serve you! We plan events both on-campus and virtually, as well as cultivate events happening in the larger holistic community.
We source volunteer opportunities for students to go into the community and get practice, as well as networking and business-oriented events to help you succeed in your Massage Therapy career!
Do you want to make a difference in people’s lives by providing alternative and holistic therapies and assisting them in achieving emotional, physical, and spiritual balance?
San Diego has a lot to offer massage therapists, including healthcare institutions that respect massage, a community of sports enthusiasts, and spas that attract visitors from all over the world. There are several employment opportunities available, some more competitive than others, while others with higher pay.
After completing our Professional Massage Therapist certificate program, students will be eligible to pursue several exciting career paths.
Students can easily find employment at spas, hospitals, and clinics. A larger majority will go on to start their own practice.
Our training also provides the knowledge and skills needed to provide services in nursing homes, sports venues, or fitness centers. Individuals may also find work on cruise ships or directly with sports teams.
Statistics predict employment within the industry to increase by 32% between 2020 and 2030. This marks a much faster rate of growth as compared to other sectors. As the benefits of holistic health and wellness become more pronounced, jobs for massage therapists will continue to rise.
We offer our students resume and cover letter review and support, mock interviews, and access to our list of partners and companies that want to hire them! So regardless of how long ago a student has graduated, they can always return to ICOHS College for job assistance.
Although we cannot guarantee a job, as the actual interview and determination are up to the employer, we will support them throughout the process.
Our Career Services team is constantly in contact with spas, chiropractic offices, physical therapists, and other massage practices that are looking for new staff. We send out timely email notices of internships and openings, and we help you prepare for your application!
At any time during and after your program, you can send us your resume and cover letter for feedback and editing, and we will always make time to conduct mock interviews and train you to get the job you want.
Note: Self- employment is a common vocational objective after completion of this program.
