Massage Therapy Programs in New Jersey
Massage therapy has become an ever increasingly popular alternative to more traditional health and wellness regimes, with over 350 accredited message schools throughout the country. New Jersey has also followed this upward trend and currently boasts 25 programs with approved courses by the Nursing Board for Massage Therapy. If you are interested in the massage field, New Jersey lends itself as a top state to consider, and BeautySchools.com has compiled a list of top programs.
Contact Top Massage Therapy Schools in New Jersey
Find Massage Therapy Programs in New Jersey
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.
As a massage therapist student in New Jersey, you can expect to focus your studies on anatomy and physiology, myology, pathology and medical terminology, in addition to the different modalities. Typical programs will consist of 500 credit hours, 100 hours being in the field, and can be completed in as little as six months. Although many schools in New Jersey factor in the clinical hours into their graduation requirements, it is something to keep in mind while looking for potential programs.
Learn About the Massage Therapy Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
New Jersey is one of the 43 states that currently require licensing for all massage therapists that wish to practice in the state. You will first need to complete a minimum of 500 hours of coursework and instruction at an approved school before applying for a license. Upon completion of the program, the New Jersey State Board of Massage Therapy requires that send your transcript to the board for submission. New Jersey also recommends that you become certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards or the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Once licensed, you will be responsible for renewing your licensing every two years to ensure you are current on industry trends, techniques and regulations. It is recommended that you join the New Jersey Chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association to connect with other massage therapists in the state.
Employment Outlook for Massage Therapists in New Jersey
As a New Jersey massage therapist, you can earn an annual salary of about $37,940, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This salary compares to the national average of about $40,000. About 2,290 massage therapists are currently employed in New Jersey. There are always opportunities available for recent graduates who have ambition and drive to start a successful career in New Jersey.