How Long Does it Take to Become a Massage Therapist?
Your time is valuable, so understandably, you will want to know more about how long it takes to become a certified massage therapist. Becoming a massage therapist can change the course of your life. Not only will you start a new career, but you will be a part of helping others feel their best self.
The Kansas City Massage Institute training program can help you kick-start your new career path in just 6 months. However, many avenues can determine how long it takes to complete a massage therapist program. And depending on which road you choose can speed up the process or slow it down.

First, Choose The Right Licensed Massage Therapist School For Your Schedule
As you consider massage therapist schools, you’ll notice that different schools offer a variety of course schedules and curricula. Some schools provide online-only instruction, while others are strictly in-person classes and hands-on work. Their programs may be as little as 300 hours, usually completed online with no practical in-person instruction or as many as 1,000 class hours.
Kansas City Massage Institute combines both approaches in an accelerated program that provides instruction on the necessary processes and techniques and allows students to test their skills during in-person classes to perfect their methods.
Time You'll Spend In Courses Toward Your Massage Therapy Certificate
The time you spend on courses depends on the school you enroll in. Kansas City Massage Institute offers a comprehensive 500-hour course using our 50% Online/50% in-person hybrid program.
Our massage training program includes:
- Intro to Massage
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Terminology
- Effects and Tools of Massage
- Business Practices and Law
- CPR
- Massage Techniques and Procedures
- Specialized Massage
Next, Take The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination
Your massage education at Kansas City Massage Institute will include a 500-hour certification program. As a graduate of the Massage Therapy Certificate Program,
you will be awarded a certificate and be eligible to sit for a certification exam – the national Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (“MBLEx”) administered by the
Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (“FSMTB”) and to apply for licensing in most states, including Kansas, Missouri, and municipalities in the Kansas City area.
Finally, Start Your Massage Therapy Career After Certification!
You are now certified and in control of your career path going forward. Many possibilities in front of you can fit your life and schedule, whether you are looking to move into a full-time massage therapist career or as a less rigid option to add to your income.
What Massage Therapy Career Options Are Available to You After Certification?
Unlike many other jobs, your massage therapy certification gives you more freedom. Each path presents its challenges and rewards.
You could join a massage studio to work on-site or an outpatient occupational therapy center that offers massage therapy as part of its services.
Another route to your new massage therapy career is opening your own massage studio or business! Starting your own business may be as simple as renting a small space for just one table or opening a more significant establishment with additional employees. You could invest in a mobile massage table or chair and become a traveling massage therapist.
Is Massage Therapy a Successful Career Choice?
Massage therapy is a vital component for many to live their best life. Therefore, this means your massage therapist certification puts you in high demand!
Massage therapy is beneficial for those who work long hours or in physically demanding fields, people who work in high-stress environments, and professional athletes to recover from the wear and tear on their bodies.
It also helps those suffering from chronic illnesses that cause muscle or joint pain. Massage therapy can sometimes relieve their pain or be used to lessen their pain and reliance on prescription medications to manage their pain. Massage therapy can also be an essential step in recovery after surgery.
Ready to Begin Your Massage Therapist Career? Call Kansas City Massage Institute Today!
KCMI can help you successfully become a Message Therapist within 6 months. With over 50 years of experience, you will learn the best techniques and the finer points of the massage and healing industry.