The wellness industry is booming across the U.S., and Illinois is no exception. With more people turning to natural and therapeutic solutions for chronic pain, anxiety, and muscular issues, the need for skilled massage therapists is steadily climbing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for massage therapists is expected to grow by 18% between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. If you're in Illinois and have a genuine interest in helping others, a career in massage therapy might just be your perfect fit.
Whether you’re from Chicago, Tinley Park, or anywhere else in the Prairie State, understanding the necessary steps to become a certified massage therapist is crucial. And this blog will walk you through exactly that.
Why Choose a Career in Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is more than just a relaxing luxury—it’s a vital healthcare service. As more Illinois residents become aware of the therapeutic benefits of massage, the opportunities for licensed professionals are increasing in clinics, spas, fitness centers, and even hospitals.
Here are a few reasons why becoming a massage therapist in Illinois is a solid career choice:
Education Requirements in Illinois
To practice legally in Illinois, you must graduate from a state-approved massage therapy program. Reputable institutions like New School Massage, located in Tinley Park, Illinois, provide well-rounded training that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
Minimum education requirements include:
New School Massage offers programs designed to meet these requirements while giving students access to real-world experience through its massage student clinic.
Licensing and Certification Process
After completing the educational component, candidates must pass a recognized licensure exam such as the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination).
Here are the steps to obtain your license in Illinois:
Whether you’re from Chicago, Tinley Park, or anywhere else in the Prairie State, understanding the necessary steps to become a certified massage therapist is crucial. And this blog will walk you through exactly that.
Why Choose a Career in Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is more than just a relaxing luxury—it’s a vital healthcare service. As more Illinois residents become aware of the therapeutic benefits of massage, the opportunities for licensed professionals are increasing in clinics, spas, fitness centers, and even hospitals.
Here are a few reasons why becoming a massage therapist in Illinois is a solid career choice:
- Flexible work hours
- High job satisfaction
- Opportunities for self-employment
- Ability to positively impact people’s lives daily
Education Requirements in Illinois
To practice legally in Illinois, you must graduate from a state-approved massage therapy program. Reputable institutions like New School Massage, located in Tinley Park, Illinois, provide well-rounded training that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
Minimum education requirements include:
- Completion of at least 600 hours of instruction
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Pathology
- Massage Techniques
- Ethics & Business Practices
- Clinical Internship
New School Massage offers programs designed to meet these requirements while giving students access to real-world experience through its massage student clinic.
Licensing and Certification Process
After completing the educational component, candidates must pass a recognized licensure exam such as the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination).
Here are the steps to obtain your license in Illinois:
Step |
|
1 |
Complete 600-hour accredited massage therapy program |
2 |
Submit application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) |
3 |
Pass the MBLEx |
4 |
Pay the licensing fee |
5 |
Maintain continuing education (24 CE hours every 2 years) |
Skills and Specializations
Once licensed, therapists may choose to specialize in areas such as:
At New School Massage, students are exposed to a wide range of modalities so they can discover their passion and niche within the field.
Career Options and Work Environments
Graduates can work in various settings such as:
With cities like Chicago, Naperville, and Springfield actively hiring massage professionals, Illinois offers a thriving market for fresh graduates.
Why Choose New School Massage?
New School Massage, based in Tinley Park, is one of the most trusted massage training schools in Illinois. Here’s why aspiring therapists choose us:
Our programs are tailored to meet Illinois licensure standards while preparing students for long-term career success.
Schedule a Tour or Request Enrollment Details
Becoming a massage therapist in Illinois is a structured yet rewarding journey. With the right training, certification, and mindset, you can turn your interest in wellness and healing into a fulfilling profession. Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to change careers, now is the perfect time to step into the world of massage therapy.
Explore the educational programs at New School Massage, one of the leading massage training schools in Illinois, and take your first step toward a life-changing career.
Once licensed, therapists may choose to specialize in areas such as:
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Sports Massage
- Prenatal Massage
- Trigger Point Therapy
- Clinical Massage
At New School Massage, students are exposed to a wide range of modalities so they can discover their passion and niche within the field.
Career Options and Work Environments
Graduates can work in various settings such as:
- Medical clinics and wellness centers
- Spas and resorts
- Chiropractic offices
- Private practice
- Corporate wellness programs
With cities like Chicago, Naperville, and Springfield actively hiring massage professionals, Illinois offers a thriving market for fresh graduates.
Why Choose New School Massage?
New School Massage, based in Tinley Park, is one of the most trusted massage training schools in Illinois. Here’s why aspiring therapists choose us:
- Comprehensive 600-hour curriculum
- Flexible scheduling options for working adults
- Experienced instructors with clinical backgrounds
- Onsite massage student clinic Illinois for real-world training
- Post-graduation career support
Our programs are tailored to meet Illinois licensure standards while preparing students for long-term career success.
Schedule a Tour or Request Enrollment Details
Becoming a massage therapist in Illinois is a structured yet rewarding journey. With the right training, certification, and mindset, you can turn your interest in wellness and healing into a fulfilling profession. Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to change careers, now is the perfect time to step into the world of massage therapy.
Explore the educational programs at New School Massage, one of the leading massage training schools in Illinois, and take your first step toward a life-changing career.