Arkansas Massage Therapy Programs
Massage therapy curriculum varies from state to state and, in many cases, from school to school. Generally speaking, a Licensed Massage Therapy training program will include anatomy and physiology, pathology, technique, health and hygiene, and business ethics. Many training programs will also offer courses in Hydrotherapy, Heliotherapy, Electrotherapy, and other treatment modalities. Massage Therapy schools in Arkansas typically model the curriculum after requirements and guidelines set forth by the Arkansas State Board of Massage Therapy.
Find Massage Therapy Programs in Arkansas
You must attend a school that is approved by your state to provide training in the discipline you want to practice. Check with the school and the state board to be sure that your program of study will prepare you for any applicable state licensure.
A few of the very best Massage Therapy schools in Arkansas include:
- Body Wellness Massage Academy
- Arkansas College of Massage
- Little Rock Medical Assistant and Massage Therapy school
There are also a few institutions that offer credit for online courses.
Massage Therapy Licensing Requirements in Arkansas
The Arkansas State Board of Massage Therapy requirements are fairly straightforward – attend an approved program, take the exam, and earn a minimum of 18 continuing education hours in order to qualify for biannual renewal. Home study and online courses may be ASBMT-approved if the following criteria are met: (1) the course has been pre-approved by another state board of massage therapy or ASBMT, (2) the course must fall in the scope of practice established by the ASBMT, (3) the course must cover non-hands-on subject matter only, and (4) the course cannot account for more than 6 of the 18 continuing education hours needed for biannual renewal.
Employment Outlook for Massage Therapists in Arkansas
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 71,000 individuals are currently employed as massage therapists throughout the United States. While the median hourly wage for a massage therapist is $17.29, therapists in the 90th percentile are earning in excess of $33 per hour. Individuals entering the workforce as a massage therapist can find employment in a number of industries ranging from personal care services to Physician’s offices and other practitioners.
Despite a difficult economy, massage therapists often have solid job security and excellent pay and benefits because of the industry’s link to modern healthcare. Physicians and other health practitioners throughout Arkansas are beginning to recommend patients to massage therapists, chiropractors, and other alternative medicines because of their proven efficacy in relieving pain and improving overall well-being.