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.
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) |
Required Immunizations
Unlike other health pathways, the Clinical Massage program requires a specific subset of immunizations:
- Hepatitis B: 3-shot series or serologic confirmation of immunity (or signed declination).
- COVID-19: 2 doses of primary series, 1 dose of updated series, or signed declination.
- TB Test (Within 12 Months): PPD skin test or Blood test (QuantiFERON-TB Gold).
- Note: If a TB test returns positive, you must provide a clear chest X-ray and physician clearance documentation.
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.
