Massage Therapy Certificate (MTC) (selective, fall entrance)

This program is an excellent option for those who are seeking to become licensed massage therapists in a short amount of time; already have a degree; or those who want to earn credit for their training but do not need, or have time, to complete a two-year degree. Benefits of MWCC’s program include: a comprehensive, leading edge curriculum; highly skilled instructors; courses that award academic credit; an on-campus massage therapy center with supervised practicum; job experience; networking opportunities; and job placement assistance. For more information, please call (978) 630-9292.

Campus/format: This program is selective and can be completed during the day at the Gardner Campus.

Application deadline: The application deadline is March 1. This selective enrollment program requires additional application components. The selection process is competitive and space is limited.

Requirements for consideration: Applicants must meet certain academic standards. See page 13 of the college catalog for specific details or refer to the program application available on our website or through the admissions office.

Transfer options: Courses in the Massage Therapy Certificate may be applied to MWCC’s Complementary Health Care—Massage Therapy Concentration Degree. Check with your academic adviser.

Special requirements: MTC students are required to keep pace with the incoming class and must take courses in sequential order. Applicants must meet all requirements for consideration before entering the program. Students must meet technical standards and additional requirements including immunizations, CPR certification, liability insurance, and a Criminal/Sexual Offender Records Information (CORI/SORI) check (see page 13). Students must score 83 or greater on the Algebra CPT or score 31 or greater on the College Math CPT or have completed a math course equal to MAT121/124/126 or higher.
Completion of BIO115 required prior to admission and credits must have been taken within the prior five years. Upon matriculation into Massage Program, students will be assessed a fee of $400.00 to cover the cost of a massage table.

Career options: Massage therapists in: fitness centers, wellness centers, spas, hospitals, retirement communities, doctor and chiropractic offices, assisted-living centers, yoga centers, and group and individual practices.

Earning potential: $37,815 to $57,334 per year. If employed by a health center or spa, a portion of the treatment fee is retained by the employer.

Elective courses by abbreviation

Information about Selective Admissions programs

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Technical Standards*

*general information about technical standards and accommodation.

Students entering one of these programs must be able to demonstrate the ability to:

1. Comprehend textbook material at the 11th grade level.
2. Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format.
3. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.
4. Continuously (2-4 hours) stand in place, twist, scoop, bend at the waist, pinch or grasp with hands, reach with arms overhead.
5. Lift, handle and carry massage therapy equipment including table, chair which can weigh up to 50 pounds.
6. Manipulate clients for positioning requiring lifting up to 40 lbs.
7. Demonstrate tactile ability commensurate with assessing muscle tonicity. In addition, tactile sensitivity to hotness/coldness, wetness/dryness, hardness/softness.
8. Demonstrate fine and gross motor skills commensurate with sustained pressure using thumbs, wrist and hands for up to 60 minutes.
9. Respond to spoken verbal communication, as well as sounds that indicate changes in the patient’s physiological condition (i.e. breath sounds, slurred speech)
10. Identify behaviors that would endanger a person’s life or safety, and intervene quickly in a crisis situation with an appropriate solution.
11. Remain calm, rational, decisive, and in control at all times, especially during emergency situations.
12. Exhibit behavioral and ethical skills appropriate to professional interactions.
13. Maintain cleanliness and personal grooming consistent with close personal contact.
14. Function without causing harm to self or others if under the influence of prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Information about Selective Admissions programs