Course Descriptions
Massage Therapy 101- 120 Hours
Students will learn the History of Massage including the prominent figures and their contributions to the field. Students will learn the fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology including terms and body systems. Students will learn about the standards and codes of conduct for massage therapists and how to have strong professionalism. Students will learn Body Mechanics and how to deliver an effective massage while minimizing personal injury and conserving energy for a long lasting career. Students will learn Swedish Massage techniques, how to apply them, what each of their goals are, when to avoid them, and how to blend them together to create a relaxing or therapeutic massage based on the client's goals. Students will learn the basics of touch, how to start a massage session, how to give a 60-min Full Body Swedish Massage, and the fundamentals of hands-on massage therapy.
Massage Therapy 102- 120 Hours
Students will learn about the reproductive, urinary, integumentary, and lymphatic systems, their structures and functions and the pathologies associated with each and how massage can be modified to aid with treatment goals. Students will learn the Skeletal System and Muscular System, be able to use medical vocabulary comfortably, and explain the effects massage has on these body systems.
Massage Therapy 103- 120 Hours
The students will learn the muscles of the Neck, Shoulder, Forearm, and Hand, along with their actions and insertions, common issues in these areas and how to treat them. The students will understand how to create career longevity and make a plan to avoid and heal from burnout. The students will learn about the Nervous System, common pathologies of the nervous system, and how to approach these through massage. Students will learn about ethics and the therapeutic relationship including how to establish boundaries, cultivate self-care practices, and how to have a long-lasting and thriving massage career.
Massage Therapy 104- 120 Hours
Students will learn about sanitations and safety practices within the massage career, as well as emergency preparedness. The students will also learn the muscles of the thigh and hip, their actions and insertions, and how to effectively massage each area. Students will learn about the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems, their striations and functions as well as pathologies associated with them, and how massage can be adapted to aid in treatment.
Massage Therapy 105- 12o Hours
Students will learn the muscles of the Spine, Thorax, Lower Leg, and Foot, as well as their actions and insertions, and how to address issues in each area. Students will learn research literacy and complete a research project to demonstrate their competence. Students will learn about different hydrotherapy options and how to apply them safely, including ice massage and hot stone massage. Students will learn Seated Massage and Reflexology.
Massage Therapy 106- 120 Hours
Students will be introduced to Asian Bodywork including Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Thai Bodywork, Shiatsu and Reflexology. Students will learn about special populations and how to adapt massage for different life stages and medical experiences, including Prenatal Massage. Students will learn about the structures and functions of the endocrine system and digestive system. Students will learn clinical massage including orthopedic tests and deep tissue massage. Students will also learn about massage business practices and learn how to financially plan to have a successful career in massage therapy. The last week will be spent reviewing the entire program and discussing the MBLEx.
Externship- 20 Hours
Students will shadow Licensed Massage Therapists in the workforce. They will see real clients who will receive real treatments. They will also participate in community outreach events that help broaden their experience of performing massage therapy.
Externship
Before entering Externship, SHMA will send your transcript into the FSBTMB and pay your exam fee so you can prepare to sit for the MBLEx. Part of your Externship assignments will be scheduling your MBLEx. Experience has shown the sooner a student tests the better they test.
​
Student Services will meet with you prior to completing your last term and arrange your externship site. It is your responsibility to attend your Externship for the hours you are scheduled, communicate with Student Services and your Site Supervisor about unexpected absences, schedule make-up days, and complete all duties asked of you.
​
Remember that until you are Licensed by the Cosmetology Board of Oklahoma, you may NOT perform massage services as a LMT.
​
Externship must be completed to receive a certificate of completion and a copy of your transcript (which you will need to apply for your licensure).
Kind Words
Her knowledge of the body is incredible and not only has she helped me, but she has helped many of my clients and friends as well!
- K. Locke
