MTST – Massage Therapy
MTST 108
Massage Therapy Foundations
2 Credits Weekly (2-0-0)
Students acquire fundamental knowledge about the massage therapy profession including history, standards of practice, regulatory requirements, complementary therapies, as well as current and future trends. Students explore the roles and responsibilities of a massage therapist and the importance of inter-professional collaboration. Medical terminology used in the study of anatomy, physiology, massage theory and techniques is also examined.
MTST 109
Palpation Lab
1 Credit Total (5-10-0)
Developing well-refined tactile abilities is an essential skill for a massage therapist. Palpation lab is a kinesthetic course focusing on locating important anatomical landmarks including muscle, bone, joints, nerves, arteries and ligaments. Reinforcing musculoskeletal knowledge, this course develops skills to accurately palpate and identify common anatomical structures of the human body as well as differentiate between normal and abnormal findings.
Co-requisites: MTST 120.
MTST 115
Functional Survey for Massage Therapists
1 Credit Weekly (1-1-0)
The theory and techniques to obtain a comprehensive health history and assess the wellness status of patients seeking massage therapy are presented. Students are introduced to postural and gait analysis, interviewing skills, vital sign assessment, and professional practice documentation. Students learn/practice interpreting objective and subjective data and differentiating between normal and abnormal findings. Hygiene, infection control and safety considerations are also addressed.
MTST 118
Foundations of Client Contact
3 Credits Weekly (2-1-0)
Students acquire fundamental knowledge about the massage therapy profession and develop skills for client-therapist interactions. An introduction to intake, charting, medical terminology, and basic clinical assessment is presented. Students also learn basic infection prevention control practices and how to recognize, prevent, and respond to potential medical events.
MTST 120
Human Anatomy I
3 Credits Weekly (3-1-0)
This course is an in-depth study of the anatomical structures of the head, neck, trunk, abdomen, upper and lower extremities. The components of the musculoskeletal system and arthrology are examined in detail. Palpation skills are developed through surface anatomy labs which involve exploration of major bony and soft tissue landmarks.
MTST 122
Human Anatomy II
3 Credits Weekly (3-0-0)
Students develop an understanding of the subcategories of systemic anatomy, including structural organization, body cavities, the cell, and tissues of muscle, nerve and bone. Students explore the structure and function of the major systems of the body including: cardiovascular, lymphatic and immune, respiratory, nervous (including special senses), endocrine, gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive and integumentary systems.
MTST 125
Physiology I
3 Credits Weekly (3-0-0)
An introduction to the physiology of the body is provided. The nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and protective systems are emphasized to explain the relationships between body fluid distribution, sensory stimulation, and the modulation of pain perception.
MTST 126
Physiology II
3 Credits Weekly (3-0-0)
The physiology of the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, and immune systems and how these systems co-regulate the functioning of the body is discussed in detail. Hormonal and autonomic control of the respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems are emphasized along with an examination of the special senses.
Prerequisites: MTST 125.
MTST 131
Techniques I
3 Credits Total (30-30-0)
This course explores the essential principles, procedures, and techniques for delivering wellness massage therapy treatments. Students will learn introductory massage techniques, patient positioning, draping, therapist self-care, and the proper use of posture and body mechanics. The curriculum covers SOAP notes, communication, informed consent, hygiene, infection control precautions, indications and contraindications, treatment modifications, and the foundational principles of massage therapy. Additionally, students will develop and apply palpation skills to identify bony landmarks and soft tissue structures.
MTST 137
Developing Therapeutic Relationships
2 Credits Weekly (2-1-0)
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of ethical values, interpersonal skills, communication techniques, and cultural competencies essential for developing effective therapeutic relationships. Through experiential learning, students will engage with topics such as health inequality, conflict management, informed consent, boundaries and therapeutic touch. The complexities of therapeutic relationships, power differentials and ethical standards for preventing and reporting sexual offences, including understanding their impact and applying trauma- and violence-informed care approaches, are also studied. Additionally, students will learn about ethical standards for identifying and preventing fraudulent activities.
MTST 142
Techniques II
3 Credits Total (30-30-0)
This course provides an in-depth introduction to the massage therapy treatment principles and soft tissue/postural assessment skills. Students will engage in comprehensive study and the practice of myofascial release, skin rolling, friction massage, and muscle stripping techniques, enhancing their ability to work with greater tissue sensitivity and depth. The curriculum emphasizes prescribing appropriate patient self-care and introductory thermal therapy. Key topics such as contraindications, patient positioning, draping, health history analysis, professional documentation and principles of therapist injury prevention are reinforced. Additionally, the students will be introduced to alternative positioning and chair massage techniques.
Prerequisites: MTST 118, MTST 120, MTST 125, and a minimum grade of C in MTST 131.
MTST 143
Techniques III
3 Credits Total (30-30-0)
An in-depth study and practice of thermal therapy, trigger point therapy, golgi tendon organ release, muscle approximation, and origin-insertion techniques are presented in this course. Students learn to recognize contraindications, indications, and when to modify these treatment modalities as they relate to common pathological conditions. Through experiential learning, students further refine palpation and assessment skills required for effective application of these techniques.
Prerequisites: MTST 146 and a minimum grade of C in MTST 142.
MTST 146
Body Movements
3 Credits Total (35-10-0)
An in-depth analysis of the structure and muscle function of human movement and gait is explored. Anatomy of upper and lower extremity joints is reviewed. The physical basis of movement and muscle function is examined. Basic movements and sport activities are analyzed.
Prerequisites: MTST 120.
MTST 151
Research Literacy for Massage Therapists
1 Credit Weekly (2-0-0)
The basic components of research literacy are covered in this course. Students locate, evaluate and utilize research and professional literature in the context of massage therapy practice. The application of evidence-informed treatment practices and planning to enhance patient care is a major focus.
MTST 155
Assessment for Massage Therapists I
2 Credits Total (25-20-0)
The basic theory of assessment related to the practice of massage therapy is presented. Assessment of the cervical spine, thoracic spine and upper body including posture and gait analysis, palpation, range-of-motion, muscle testing, joint play, special tests and neurological testing are examined in detail. Students learn how to take a comprehensive case history, incorporate assessment findings from other health care practitioners and utilize assessment data to inform treatment planning decisions. Documentation and interpretation of assessment findings are integral components of the course.
MTST 156
Assessment for Massage Therapists II
2 Credits Total (25-20-0)
Assessment for commonly-occurring conditions affecting the lower body is the focus of this course. Assessment of the lumbar spine, pelvis and lower extremities including posture and gait analysis, palpation, range-of-motion, muscle testing, joint play, special tests and neurological testing are examined in detail. Students learn how to take a comprehensive case history, incorporate assessment findings from other health care practitioners and utilize assessment data to inform treatment planning decisions. Documentation and interpretation of assessment findings are integral components of the course.
Prerequisites: MTST 155.
MTST 161
Clinical Practice I
1 Credit Total (0-0-60)
This course introduces students to the practice of massage therapy in a supervised clinical setting. Working with the public, students have the opportunity to practice introductory massage therapy techniques and develop skills such as body mechanics, draping, communication, informed consent, assessment, practice records, recognizing modifications/contraindications and provide basic home-care recommendations.
Prerequisites: MTST 108, MTST 131, MTST 115, and Standard First Aid and Health Care Provider Level C CPR.
MTST 162
Clinical Practice II
1 Credit Total (0-0-60)
This course builds on the practical experience gained in MTST 161. In a supervised setting, students provide massage therapy assessment and treatment to a variety of patients. This course offers an opportunity to practice time management, advanced techniques, alternate positioning and sequencing, introductory assessment procedures, charting skills, treatment plan development and prescribe basic self-care.
MTST 191
Clinical Practicum I
1 Credit Total (0-0-52)
This course introduces students to the practice of massage therapy in a supervised clinical setting. Working with the public, students have the opportunity to practice introductory massage therapy techniques and develop skills such as body mechanics, draping, communication, informed consent, assessment, record management, and recognizing modifications/contraindications.
Prerequisites: MTST 118 and and a minimum grade of C in MTST 131.
MTST 192
Clinical Practicum II
1 Credit Total (0-0-52)
This course builds on the practical experience gained in MTST 191. In a supervised setting, students provide massage therapy assessment and treatment to a variety of patients. This course offers an opportunity to practice time management, intermediate techniques, alternate positioning and sequencing, introductory assessment procedures, charting skills, treatment plan development and recommending basic self-care.
Prerequisites: MTST 120, MTST 146, and a minimum grade of C in MTST 191, and MTST 142.
MTST 224
Techniques IV
3 Credits Weekly (2-2-0)
This course covers the theory, procedure, and practice of peripheral joint mobilizations, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, static stretching, and lymphatic drainage techniques. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the contraindications, indications, and modifications associated with these techniques. The practical application of these methods will be integrated into evidence-informed comprehensive treatment plans, utilizing data gathered from relevant clinical assessments.
Prerequisites: MTST 155, and a minimum grade of C in MTST 143.
MTST 225
Techniques V
3 Credits Total (2-2-0)
This course explores the theory and practice of therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation within the framework of massage therapy treatment planning. Through case studies, students will develop effective therapeutic exercise interventions for patients with various musculoskeletal disorders and movement dysfunctions. Additionally, the course covers the principles, assessment methods, and techniques for mobilizing peripheral joints in the lower extremities.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C in MTST 224.
MTST 226
Techniques VI
3 Credits Total (2-2-0)
Facilitated by case studies, this course utilizes an integrative approach, enabling students to consolidate their program knowledge into comprehensive massage therapy treatment protocols for common conditions. Emphasis is placed on evaluating research to inform clinical decisions regarding assessment, treatment planning, and rehabilitative components. The course also reinforces competencies for professional practice, assessment, and treatment. It prepares students for safe, effective, and ethical entry into professional practice.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C in MTST 225.
MTST 260
Clinical Practice III
1 Credit Total (0-0-60)
This course involves the application of advanced massage therapy to patients in a supervised setting. The intent is to build on the practical experience and knowledge gained in MTST 162. This course provides an opportunity to develop advanced techniques on a variety of clinical pathologies and special populations commonly seen by massage therapists. A focus is placed on advanced assessment, treatment planning, application of specialized techniques, relevant clinical observation, and self-care customized to individual patients.
Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C- in MTST 162, MTST 155 and MTST 143.
MTST 261
Clinical Practice IV
1 Credit Total (0-0-60)
This supervised clinical experience provides students with the opportunity to practice a wide-range of assessment, massage therapy techniques, therapeutic exercise and thermal applications on patients. Massage therapy treatments focus on assessing and rehabilitating patients with a variety of commonly-occurring pathological conditions. Case conferences are conducted at which time students present assessment data and treatment plans for individual patients.
Prerequisites: MTST 156, MTST 273, MTST 281, and a minimum grade of C in MTST 260.
MTST 262
Clinical Practice V
1 Credit Total (0-0-45)
Working as part of a multi-disciplinary health care team, students provide therapeutic massage techniques to patients with special needs in a supervised clinical setting. Working in a health care facility/setting, students further develop assessment and treatment skills while contributing to effective and collaborative patient-centered care. Case conferences are conducted at which time students present assessment data and treatment plans for individual patients.
Prerequisites: MTST 283, MTST 261,MTST 274, MTST 225 and Standard First Aid and Health Care Provider Level C CPR.
MTST 265
Business Management for Massage Therapists
2 Credits Weekly (2-0-0)
An introduction to starting and managing a massage therapy business is presented. Sustainable business practices are explored. From an entrepreneurial view, an emphasis is placed upon practice management, principles of business management, financial management, billing procedures, business plan development, marketing and service promotion. Creating a resume and developing interview skills are also addressed.
MTST 273
Massage Therapy for Special Populations I
2 Credits Weekly (2-2-0)
Students explore the various stages of the human lifespan, with a primary focus on applying therapeutic massage treatments to healthy populations at each stage. Key areas of study include pregnancy, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and senior care. Additionally, the course introduces pharmacology, emphasizing the potential interactions between medications and massage therapy practice.
MTST 274
Massage Therapy for Special Populations II
2 Credits Total (2-2-0)
The theory and application of therapeutic massage intervention for patients with diverse, complex needs are examined in this course. Students will study the etiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of post-surgical conditions, psychiatric disorders, and chronic illnesses. The curriculum emphasizes safe and effective assessment and treatment techniques for these conditions to ensure competent practice.
Prerequisites: MTST 224.
MTST 281
Treatments and Planning I
2 Credits Weekly (3-0-0)
Students explore evidence-informed approaches to treatment planning. The components of a massage therapy treatment plan and its relationship to assessment, research evidence and desired clinical outcomes are explained. This course examines the principles for planning ongoing massage therapy treatment for individuals with various pathological conditions by using case studies for clinical practice.
MTST 283
Treatments and Planning II
2 Credits Weekly (3-0-0)
Treatment planning for a variety of neurological, orthopedic, respiratory and musculoskeletal conditions are studied. Assessment findings are utilized to make evidence-informed decisions in developing a comprehensive treatment plan for commonly-occurring conditions. Incorporating knowledge of common clinical presentations, the student selects appropriate massage therapy techniques and modalities considering the patient's stage of life and health status.
MTST 286
Sport Massage
3 Credits Total (2-2-1)
This course focuses on the theory and practice of sport massage, providing a thorough examination of its history and the role of the sport massage therapist. Students will explore and apply sport-specific massage techniques to athletes, focusing on pre-, inter-, and post-event care, as well as training and maintenance massage. The curriculum also introduces myofascial cupping, muscle energy techniques, and prophylactic and kinesiology taping for athletes. Additionally, there will be a comprehensive review of common sport injuries, emphasizing their assessment and treatment.
Prerequisites: MTST 143.
MTST 291
Clinical Practicum III
2 Credits Total (0-0-60)
This course furthers the development and application of assessment and treatment skills to patients in a supervised setting. This course provides an opportunity to develop advanced techniques relevant to a variety of clinical presentations and diverse populations commonly seen by massage therapists. A focus is placed on advanced assessment, treatment planning, application of specialized techniques, relevant clinical observation, and self-care customized to individual patients.
Prerequisites: MTST 155, and a minimum grade of C in MTST 192 and MTST 143.
MTST 292
Clinical Practicum IV
2 Credits Total (0-0-60)
This supervised clinical experience provides students with the opportunity to practice a wide range of assessment, massage therapy techniques, therapeutic exercise, and thermal applications on patients. Massage therapy treatments focus on assessing and rehabilitating patients with a variety of commonly-occurring pathological conditions. Case conferences are conducted at which time students present assessment data and treatment plans for individual patients.
Prerequisites: MTST 281, MTST 156 and a minimum grade of C MTST 291.
MTST 293
Clinical Practicum V
1 Credit Total (0-0-30)
Students provide therapeutic massage techniques to diverse patient populations in a variety of supervised clinical/community-based settings. Students further develop assessment and treatment skills while contributing to effective and collaborative patient-centered care. Case conferences are conducted where relevant to support peer learning.
Prerequisites: MTST 292, MTST 283, MTST 274, MTST 273, and MTST 225.