Massage Therapy
Our cost-effective program provides 696 hours of comprehensive, hands-on training. You will gain the skills and knowledge needed for success through a mix of classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and real-world clinical experience.
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Program Overview
This program is designed to meet the high standards of the North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy (NCBMBT).
- Hours: 696 total hours of training
- Format: 100% in-person
- Schedule: Weekday (about 7 months), weeknight (about 8 months), and weekend (about 11 months) options
- Requirements: Students must maintain at least an 80% academic average
- Clinical Experience: You will be required to both give and receive massages as part of your training
- Essential Skills: Strong interpersonal and social skills are required for effective client care
CFCC Program Requirements
- 18 years of age
- Proof of high school diploma or its equivalent
- Ability to participate in physically rigorous training and practice
- Awareness that this education and training requires giving and receiving massage
- Must attend at least 650 class hours. Make-up hours are not provided.
Textbooks & Supplies
NCBMBT Licensing Requirements
To become an NC Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist, visit The NC Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy . Board requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- 18 years or older
- Good moral character as determined by the Board
- Successful completion of a training program that consists of a minimum of 650 in-class hours of supervised instruction at a Board approved school
- Passing of a competency examination that meets generally accepted psychometric principles and standards and is Board approved
- Submission of fingerprint cards in a form acceptable to the Board at the time the license application is filed and consent to a criminal history record check by the NC Department of Justice
- Satisfactory proof of proficiency in the English language
Estimated Program Expenses
Costs are approximate and subject to change based on vendor pricing.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
| Registration and Class Fees | $325.00 |
| Books | $525.00 |
| Uniforms & Supplies | ~$350.00 |
| Post-Course Fees (Exam, Licensing, etc.) | ~$524.00 |
| Total Estimated Investment | ~$1,724.00+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Massage Therapy program take to complete?
CFCC’s Massage Therapy program consists of 696 hours of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical experience. The total time required to complete the program depends on the class schedule. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.) take approximately 7 months, weeknights (Monday–Thursday, 4:30–10 p.m.) take approximately 8 months, and weekends (Friday–Saturday, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.) take approximately 11 months. You can view the full schedules for upcoming classes online.
Do I need any previous healthcare experience to enroll?
No. Previous massage therapy or healthcare experience is not required. Students must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be able to participate in the physical requirements of the program.
Will I need to pass a background check to become licensed?
Yes. The North Carolina Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy requires applicants for licensure to submit fingerprints and consent to a criminal history record check. Students with questions about eligibility for licensure should contact the Board directly.
Course Technical & Physical Requirements
- Stand for extended periods, Use upper body strength and stamina to perform massage techniques, Demonstrate sufficient hand strength, coordination, and endurance, Perform repetitive motions involving hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders.
- Use tactile sensitivity to assess muscle tension and tissue condition, Observe visual cues related to client comfort and physical condition, Detect contraindications such as skin abnormalities or inflammation.
- Exercise sound judgment in assessing client needs and contraindications.
- Maintain professional boundaries and appropriate conduct at all times, Adhere to client confidentiality and ethical standards.
- Maintain personal hygiene and professional appearance, Follow sanitation and infection control procedures, Use proper body mechanics to prevent injury to themselves and clients.
- Handle close physical contact in a professional manner.
