Program Content
GENERAL REQUIREMENT
INTRO - Introduction to Key Concepts and Medical Terminology - 10 hours
Introduction to key concepts surrounding massage therapy, professional development, and human sciences for bodywork. This class is a prerequisite for all other segments of the program. History and benefits of massage, career transitioning concepts, professional conduct, and medical terminology are discussed.
Prerequisite: None.
HUMAN SCIENCES FOR MASSAGE THERAPISTS AND BODYWORKERS
HSHNT – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Spine, Thorax, Head, and Neck - 35 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed. This segment focuses on the spine and thorax, head, neck and face.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.
HSSAH – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Upper Extremities - 35 hours
This is the second of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. This segment focuses on the shoulder, upper arm, forearm, and hand. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.
HSPLF – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Pelvis and Lower Extremities - 35 hours
This is the third of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed. This segment focuses on the pelvis, thigh, leg, and foot.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.
HSPHA - Physiopathology - Module A - 30 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of anatomy, physiology and pathology. The structure, function and associated disorders of each human body system are discussed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to use critical thinking skills to make informed decisions about the safety and applicability of massage for clients diagnosed with specific conditions. This segment focuses on the structures and systems that allow the human body to maintain boundaries and protect itself from environmental stressors. Topics covered: Cells and body tissues, and integumentary, lymphatic, immune systems, and related pathologies.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
HSPHB - Physiopathology - Module B - 30 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of anatomy, physiology and pathology. The structure, function and associated disorders of each human body system are discussed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to use critical thinking skills to make informed decisions about the safety and applicability of massage for clients diagnosed with specific conditions. This segment focuses on the structures and systems that allow the human body to move and respond to changes in the internal and external environment. Topics covered: Musculoskeletal, nervous, and endocrine systems, and related pathologies.
Prerequisite: HSPHA.
HSPHC - Physiopathology - Module C - 30 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of anatomy, physiology and pathology. The structure, function and associated disorders of each human body system are discussed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to use critical thinking skills to make informed decisions about the safety and applicability of massage for clients diagnosed with specific conditions. This segment focuses on the structures and systems that regulate metabolism, excrete wastes and facilitate reproduction & development. Topics covered: Cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems, and related pathologies.
Prerequisite: HSPHA.
MASSAGE & BODYWORK
MBFND1 - Foundations of Therapeutic Massage 1- 48 hours
In-depth study of the theory and hands-on techniques utilized in Western Therapeutic Massage. This class provides the foundation for the skills utilized throughout the program. Students will learn the science of massage, factors affecting quality of touch, communication and interviewing skills, treatment documentation, draping and positioning the client, use of lubricants and tools, proper body mechanics, client-therapist boundaries, benefits of and contraindications to massage, hydrotherapy, and massage techniques appropriate for a general, wellness massage treatment. By the end of the course, students will be able to perform an hour-long, full-body relaxation massage.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
MBFND2 - Foundations of Therapeutic Massage 2- 24 hours
This is a continuation of MBFND1. This class covers stretching and mobilization techniques
MBCND - Applications of Therapeutic Massage to Musculoskeletal Conditions - 60 hours
This segment builds on the skills students have gained in their Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage course. Students will integrate their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology and gain insight into common conditions, treatment protocols and interventions appropriate for a massage therapist. Students will learn posture analysis, muscle testing, trigger point theory and techniques, indications and contraindications, muscle specific techniques, and apply them throughout the body while focusing on balancing the body and addressing specific conditions and complaints.
Prerequisites: MBFND. Concurrent: HSHNT, HSPLF, HSSAH or Director Approval.
MBSP - Applications of Therapeutic Massage to Specific Populations - 24 hrs
This segment builds on the skills students have gained in their Fundamentals of Therapeutic
Massage course. Students apply their knowledge to different populations: athletes, office
workers, pregnant women, and the elderly.
MBWM - Western Frameworks and Narratives - 36 hours
This course consists of several topics intended to educate the student in various bodywork modalities. Topics include:
MBEM - Eastern Frameworks and Narratives - 48 hours
An introduction to the theory and hands-on skills associated with Eastern philosophies and lineage. This is primarily an experiential class, focusing primarily on techniques and less on the philosophies and theories behind the techniques. By the end of this course, students will be able to perform an hour-long, full body Thai –Shiatsu session and incorporate many of these techniques in a table massage.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
MBCLS - Clinic Skills - 8 hours
Discussion and hands-on preparation for entering the student clinic. Topics covered include 10 guidelines, clinic forms, client interaction, and review of documentation. Students will need to demonstrate competency in the areas of client interviewing and communication, ethics, draping, body mechanics, and various techniques prior to entering the student clinic.
Prerequisite: MBFND1, or Director Approval.
MBCL - Student Clinic - 125 hours
Hands-on practice of massage therapy focused on the general public. Students will have the opportunity to integrate all of their skills in providing appropriate therapeutic massage to clients in the student clinic under the supervision of our faculty.
Prerequisite: MBCLS.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
PDE - Professional Ethics - 10 hours
This class covers the nature of professional ethics, practitioner/client relationship, professionalism, scope of practice, client interaction, sexuality and human relationships, informed consent, and ethical dilemma resolution. Case studies related to professional ethics and the law. Topics include but are not limited to scope of practice, professional boundaries, professional standards, psychological concepts applicable to therapeutic relationships, client communications, and advertising claims
Prerequisite: INTRO.
PDC - Competing in the Marketplace - 27 hours
The focus of this class is on marketing, attracting and retaining clients, communication skills, professionalism, and developing a clear plan for a rewarding career as an employee, private practitioner, or business owner. This class also offers practical skills and advice about how to compete in the marketplace.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
PDL - Preparation for Licensing – 4 hours
Discussion and practical exercises preparing the student to take the licensing exam. Topics discussed are: Difference between License and Certification, path to licensure and Board Certification, state licensing law, MBLEx review and application process, test taking skills.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
PDR - Research Literacy – 6 hours
This class explores the importance of research in massage therapy and guides students to critically evaluate available massage therapy research.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
INTRO - Introduction to Key Concepts and Medical Terminology - 10 hours
Introduction to key concepts surrounding massage therapy, professional development, and human sciences for bodywork. This class is a prerequisite for all other segments of the program. History and benefits of massage, career transitioning concepts, professional conduct, and medical terminology are discussed.
Prerequisite: None.
HUMAN SCIENCES FOR MASSAGE THERAPISTS AND BODYWORKERS
HSHNT – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Spine, Thorax, Head, and Neck - 35 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed. This segment focuses on the spine and thorax, head, neck and face.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.
HSSAH – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Upper Extremities - 35 hours
This is the second of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. This segment focuses on the shoulder, upper arm, forearm, and hand. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.
HSPLF – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Pelvis and Lower Extremities - 35 hours
This is the third of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed. This segment focuses on the pelvis, thigh, leg, and foot.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.
HSPHA - Physiopathology - Module A - 30 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of anatomy, physiology and pathology. The structure, function and associated disorders of each human body system are discussed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to use critical thinking skills to make informed decisions about the safety and applicability of massage for clients diagnosed with specific conditions. This segment focuses on the structures and systems that allow the human body to maintain boundaries and protect itself from environmental stressors. Topics covered: Cells and body tissues, and integumentary, lymphatic, immune systems, and related pathologies.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
HSPHB - Physiopathology - Module B - 30 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of anatomy, physiology and pathology. The structure, function and associated disorders of each human body system are discussed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to use critical thinking skills to make informed decisions about the safety and applicability of massage for clients diagnosed with specific conditions. This segment focuses on the structures and systems that allow the human body to move and respond to changes in the internal and external environment. Topics covered: Musculoskeletal, nervous, and endocrine systems, and related pathologies.
Prerequisite: HSPHA.
HSPHC - Physiopathology - Module C - 30 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of anatomy, physiology and pathology. The structure, function and associated disorders of each human body system are discussed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to use critical thinking skills to make informed decisions about the safety and applicability of massage for clients diagnosed with specific conditions. This segment focuses on the structures and systems that regulate metabolism, excrete wastes and facilitate reproduction & development. Topics covered: Cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems, and related pathologies.
Prerequisite: HSPHA.
MASSAGE & BODYWORK
MBFND1 - Foundations of Therapeutic Massage 1- 48 hours
In-depth study of the theory and hands-on techniques utilized in Western Therapeutic Massage. This class provides the foundation for the skills utilized throughout the program. Students will learn the science of massage, factors affecting quality of touch, communication and interviewing skills, treatment documentation, draping and positioning the client, use of lubricants and tools, proper body mechanics, client-therapist boundaries, benefits of and contraindications to massage, hydrotherapy, and massage techniques appropriate for a general, wellness massage treatment. By the end of the course, students will be able to perform an hour-long, full-body relaxation massage.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
MBFND2 - Foundations of Therapeutic Massage 2- 24 hours
This is a continuation of MBFND1. This class covers stretching and mobilization techniques
MBCND - Applications of Therapeutic Massage to Musculoskeletal Conditions - 60 hours
This segment builds on the skills students have gained in their Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage course. Students will integrate their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology and gain insight into common conditions, treatment protocols and interventions appropriate for a massage therapist. Students will learn posture analysis, muscle testing, trigger point theory and techniques, indications and contraindications, muscle specific techniques, and apply them throughout the body while focusing on balancing the body and addressing specific conditions and complaints.
Prerequisites: MBFND. Concurrent: HSHNT, HSPLF, HSSAH or Director Approval.
MBSP - Applications of Therapeutic Massage to Specific Populations - 24 hrs
This segment builds on the skills students have gained in their Fundamentals of Therapeutic
Massage course. Students apply their knowledge to different populations: athletes, office
workers, pregnant women, and the elderly.
- Seated Massage. Students will learn to apply massage techniques to a fully clothed, seated client. Development of an efficient and effective chair massage routine will be explored.
- Sports Massage. The role of massage therapy in sports will be explored in this course. Students will learn about pre-event and post-event treatments, indications and contraindications, specific conditions related to sporting events (e.g., thermal conditions, injuries, etc.), and how to apply appropriate techniques.
- Pregnancy Massage. Students will learn the physiology of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery, as well as hands-on skills to perform a prenatal and postnatal massage
- Geriatric Massage. Students will learn about the aging process, biopsychosocial effects of massage for the elderly, benefits and contraindications, appropriate positioning, and techniques.
MBWM - Western Frameworks and Narratives - 36 hours
This course consists of several topics intended to educate the student in various bodywork modalities. Topics include:
- Cranial Sacral Therapy. An introduction to the theory and practice of Cranial Sacral Therapy. Discussion will involve the craniosacral system, indications and contraindications, and treatment techniques. Students will learn introductory cranial sacral techniques and how to integrate them into their practice. The New School for Massage is a member of Upledger Institute's Registry of Schools. Upon completion of this class, students may enroll in Upledger's Craniosacral Therapy programs at significantly discounted prices.
- Myofascial Release. An introduction to the theory and practice of myofascial release techniques. Discussion will involve the anatomy and common pathology involving superficial and deep fascia, indications and contraindications and treatment techniques. Students will learn introductory myofascial release techniques and how to integrate them into their practice.
- Dermoneuromodulation. An introduction to the pain neuroscience framework and its applications. Students will learn basic techniques and how to integrate them into their practice
MBEM - Eastern Frameworks and Narratives - 48 hours
An introduction to the theory and hands-on skills associated with Eastern philosophies and lineage. This is primarily an experiential class, focusing primarily on techniques and less on the philosophies and theories behind the techniques. By the end of this course, students will be able to perform an hour-long, full body Thai –Shiatsu session and incorporate many of these techniques in a table massage.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
MBCLS - Clinic Skills - 8 hours
Discussion and hands-on preparation for entering the student clinic. Topics covered include 10 guidelines, clinic forms, client interaction, and review of documentation. Students will need to demonstrate competency in the areas of client interviewing and communication, ethics, draping, body mechanics, and various techniques prior to entering the student clinic.
Prerequisite: MBFND1, or Director Approval.
MBCL - Student Clinic - 125 hours
Hands-on practice of massage therapy focused on the general public. Students will have the opportunity to integrate all of their skills in providing appropriate therapeutic massage to clients in the student clinic under the supervision of our faculty.
Prerequisite: MBCLS.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
PDE - Professional Ethics - 10 hours
This class covers the nature of professional ethics, practitioner/client relationship, professionalism, scope of practice, client interaction, sexuality and human relationships, informed consent, and ethical dilemma resolution. Case studies related to professional ethics and the law. Topics include but are not limited to scope of practice, professional boundaries, professional standards, psychological concepts applicable to therapeutic relationships, client communications, and advertising claims
Prerequisite: INTRO.
PDC - Competing in the Marketplace - 27 hours
The focus of this class is on marketing, attracting and retaining clients, communication skills, professionalism, and developing a clear plan for a rewarding career as an employee, private practitioner, or business owner. This class also offers practical skills and advice about how to compete in the marketplace.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
PDL - Preparation for Licensing – 4 hours
Discussion and practical exercises preparing the student to take the licensing exam. Topics discussed are: Difference between License and Certification, path to licensure and Board Certification, state licensing law, MBLEx review and application process, test taking skills.
Prerequisite: INTRO.
PDR - Research Literacy – 6 hours
This class explores the importance of research in massage therapy and guides students to critically evaluate available massage therapy research.
Prerequisite: INTRO.