Clinical Massage Program Overview
Prepare for a career in therapeutic massage through intensive classroom instruction, hands-on lab training, and supervised clinical experience. Students develop core skills in advanced massage techniques, anatomy, professionalism, and client care.
- Total Clock Hours: Approx. 678 hours
- Duration: 9–10 months (divided into 3 sequential modules)
- Format: In-person, daytime program format (Typically 3–4 days per week)
How to Get Started
- Introductory Course: Students are highly encouraged to start with Introduction to Healthcare Careers. This foundational course explores career pathways, introduces medical terminology/math, and builds essential communication skills.
- Gather Documents: Begin compiling your admission paperwork while enrolled in the introductory course.
Interview: Once all admission requirements are submitted, students may be scheduled for a formal interview with the Program Coordinator.
Coming in June 2026, Information Session for the next Cohort starting this fall!
Admission & Health Requirements
To enroll, applicants must be at least 18 years old and submit the following credentials to the Health Occupations Office:
| Requirement Type | Description / Accepted Documentation |
|---|---|
| Identification | Valid government-issued photo ID & Social Security Card& |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent |
| Testing | TABE test score indicating a >10th-grade level |
| Assessments | Completed Physician’s Assessment (AB Tech Medical Form) |
| References | Two professional reference letters |
| Background Screening | State licensure background check (Note: Massage does not require the baseline upfront program drug screening required by programs like NA-I) |
Immunization Information
- The Clinical Massage Program promotes health, wellness, and infection prevention as essential professional responsibilities.
- Maintaining current immunizations helps protect students, clients, faculty, and the community from communicable diseases.
- Students are strongly encouraged to keep immunizations up to date according to current healthcare recommendations.
- Hepatitis B and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended; however, students may complete the appropriate exemption or declination forms during registration if they choose not to receive these vaccines.
- Students are strongly encouraged to keep immunizations up to date according to current healthcare recommendations. While certain immunizations may not be required for participation in all Clinical Massage activities, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations helps reduce the risk of transmitting communicable diseases and supports a safe learning and clinical environment.
Please note that the Clinical Massage Program is a very physically and academically demanding program. Any accommodations must be assessed by student services prior to registration.
For further information, call the Health Occupations Office at (828) 398-7878.
Program Costs & Financial Support
Below is a transparent projection of programmatic fees.
| Tuition & Fees (3 Modules at $267.00 each) | $801.00 |
|---|---|
| Textbooks & Handbooks (Subtotal + Tax) | $245.24 |
| Massage Supplies & Materials | $75.00 |
| Uniforms & Linens (Variable range) | $40.00 – $125.00 |
| Post-Completion Licensing Exam (MBLEx) | $265.00 |
| Estimated Total Investment | $1,426.24 – $1,511.24 |
Eligible students may access financial assistance, scholarships, or workforce funding. Reach out to our dedicated program partners to see if you qualify for support:
NCWorks Career Navigator & Scholarship Coordinator
Catherine Redwine
- Phone: (828) 398-7890
- Email: catherineredwine@abtech.edu
STEP Education Navigator & Team Trainer
Christi Cortese
- Phone: (828) 337-3689
- Email: christinelcortese@abtech.edu
Goodwill Career Center Specialist
Annabelle Almeida
- Phone: (828) 298-9023 ext. 1161
- Email: aalmeida@goodwillnwnc.org
- The Credential: Graduates are fully prepared to sit for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) and apply for the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy state licensure process.
- Employment Opportunities: Licensed professionals routinely secure employment in chiropractic offices, specialized massage clinics, luxury wellness centers, medical day spas, athletic fitness facilities, or via private independent practice.
