Mar 28, 2024  
2019-20 Gaston College Catalog 
    
2019-20 Gaston College Catalog [THIS CATALOG IS OUT-OF-DATE. USE THE CURRENT CATALOG TO FIND CURRENT PROGRAMS.]


Therapeutic Massage Video 1

Therapeutic Massage, A.A.S. (A45750)



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The Therapeutic Massage curriculum prepares graduates to work in direct client care settings providing manipulation / massage of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasm, and stress, and to promote health and wellness.

Courses include content in normal human anatomy and physiology, therapeutic massage, ethical /legal issues, business practices, and psychology. Students should be able to perform entry level therapeutic massage with various populations throughout the lifespan.

Employment opportunities include health care facilities, chiropractors ‘offices, spas /health/sports clubs, and private practice. Graduates may be eligible to take the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam. Licensure is MANDATORY to practice massage in the state of North Carolina. Refer to website: www.bmbt.org for details.

The Therapeutic Massage curriculum offers three options: degree, diploma and certificate(s) programs. Completion of the degree program is highly recommended as it prepares the graduate to be a practitioner with a broader knowledge base in the practice of Therapeutic Massage.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates will:

  1. Plan, organize and deliver an effective massage session.
  2. Perform within the ethical, legal and professional parameters set forth by the N.C. Board of Massage & Bodywork.
  3. Perform massage therapy and bodywork for therapeutic benefits.

Course Selection Information

Students, to help you progress in your degree program, take prerequisite courses along with English and Math early in your academic career. This will align you for greater success in completing your program of study. Click on the courses listed below to ensure you are aware of prerequisites. The order shown below under the student program priorities is a guide.

Student Program Priorities:

  1. BIO 168  

Admission Information


Students applying to the Associate Degree for Therapeutic Massage must meet all Gaston College admission requirements.  Admission to the general college does not guarantee admission to the Therapeutic Massage program.

  1. Submit a Gaston College Application
  2. Complete Residency Determination for in-state tuition
  3. Apply for financial aid
  4. Meet with an advisor / Attend an information session
  5. Submit official transcripts
  6. Provide proof of course placement requirements

Additional Requirements to be eligible to submit an application to the Therapeutic Massage Program

  • Complete an online application to the Therapeutic Massage Program.
  • Must have an overall grade point average of 2.0 or better in required college courses.
  • Must have grades of “C” or better in all related courses.
  • All completed required Biology courses must be within five (5) years from the date of application to the program or required Biology courses can be taken in program.
  • Interview with Therapeutic Massage Program Coordinator.

Additional Program Requirements Upon Admission into the Therapeutic Massage Program

  • Proof of receiving a one hour full body Swedish professional massage.
  • A completed Gaston College Health and Human Services Student Medical form documenting satisfactory emotional and physical health. This is required by the due date stated in the applicant’s admission letter.
  • In addition to maintaining a 2.0 GPA in the general education courses, students must earn and maintain a minimum grade of 80% in all MTH courses in order to progress in the program.
  • Hold a current Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers certification through the American Heart Association.
  • Students will be required to submit documentation of additional non-academic criteria such as, but not limited to, criminal background checks, urine drug testing, and proof of immunizations. If the clinical facility refuses to allow the student to do clinical at the facility based on said findings, the student would not be allowed to continue in the program.
  • Professional liability insurance (malpractice insurance). This insurance is arranged through the Therapeutic Massage program.

Clinical agencies reserve the right to deny a student access to the facility based on failure to meet the above requirements. If a student is denied access to any clinical agency, the student will not be allowed to continue in the Therapeutic Massage program. Detailed information regarding these agency requirements will be provided upon conditional acceptance into the Therapeutic Massage program.

FIRST YEAR


SECOND YEAR


Total Program Hours: 69


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