If you are considering a career in massage therapy and would like to become a member of the BMTA, it is important to choose your training program carefully.
The BMTA requires a minimum of 750 hours of massage therapy education and training for membership.
In the United States, massage therapy programs vary considerably in length, with many programs offering between 650 and 1,000 hours of training. Whenever possible, we recommend choosing a program that provides at least 750 hours.
If the school you want to attend offers a program with fewer than 750 hours, you may still meet the BMTA requirement. For example, if you complete a 650-hour massage therapy program, you would need to complete an additional 100 hours of advanced massage therapy training at your school to reach the required 750 hours. This could include advanced courses or additional training the school offers beyond its core massage therapy program.
If you choose this route, we strongly recommend planning the additional training while you are enrolled, rather than trying to make up the hours after graduation. We do not recommend choosing a program with fewer than 650 hours if your goal is BMTA membership.
In Canada, massage therapy education is generally very comprehensive, and recognized programs typically exceed the BMTA’s 750-hour requirement.
Training in the United Kingdom can be more complicated, as qualifications and program hours vary significantly. If you are considering studying in the UK, please contact the BMTA before enrolling so we can review the program and confirm that it provides an appropriate pathway toward membership.
Wherever you choose to study, if you are unsure whether a program will meet our requirements, please contact the BMTA before enrolling or paying tuition. We are happy to review the program with you so you can make sure you are on the right educational pathway from the beginning.
The cost of massage school ranges from $8000- $15,000. Other student expenses include text books, massage table, sheets, oils, and workshop fees/advance trainings.