Massage Therapy

 

Touch is essential to our well-being and health, and the laying-on of hands has been practiced around the world as a means of healing throughout the ages. Massage therapy takes this philosophy and puts it into action, offering an important means of health care as an adjunct to other therapies and medical treatment. If you're interested in helping people achieve their physical potential, along with offering a significant dose of TLC and pain and stress management, then massage therapy may be the career for you.

 

Program Highlights

The practice of massage therapy is the "assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissues and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate, or augment physical function, or relieve pain," according to The Massage Therapy Act of Ontario. Fleming has created a unique opportunity for you with the Massage Therapy program. Should you take up this rewarding challenge, you'll acquire the core knowledge and skills required to succeed as a massage therapist. You will apply theory and practice skills during laboratory and clinical sessions. Individual attention is ensured through limited enrolment and direct interaction with faculty. To round out your skill set, there is complementary training in theory on small business entrepreneurship, computer studies, generic skills, and general study electives.

 

Why Choose Fleming?

There are very few programs like the one at Fleming College, which is registered by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The Massage Therapy program adheres to the high standards set by the Ministry, and as such, is an excellent preparation for provincial exams and registration to practice in Ontario. Fleming has offered the Massage Therapy program at our Peterborough campus since 1995. The program has acquired a great reputation, with a consistently high overall employment rate of 90%.

 

Work Experience

The program offers a unique learning environment with hands-on experience and a variety of placement opporunities, including an on-site public clinic at our Peterborough campus. In the course of training, students can expect to work with clients with physical and mental disabilities, various illnesses and the elderly. Field and clinical agencies may require you to submit a current police records check, which is available from your local police department upon payment of a fee. In addition, you may also be required to provide a current Standard First Aid Certificate, a current Basic CPR Certificate (level C) and Proof of Immunization.

 

What it Takes to Succeed

You will receive and give extensive amounts of massage (several times a week) throughout the program. You will develop and demonstrate maturity with respect to your own touch history and that of your fellow students. You will develop a deep respect for personal boundaries, and exceptional communication skills. You must have a strong desire to improve the lives of your clients through massage and related health education, and excellent interpersonal skills. Other skills/attributes which would be an asset include:

• self-motivation
• self-discipline
• strong organizational skills
• entrepreneurial attitude
• good problem solving skills

Program faculty strongly recommend that entering students receive at least ten professional massages prior to entry to this program, and that students contemplating admission take as much science as possible. You must be prepared to study a minimum of three hours daily outside of classes during the program. Students would benefit by having basic computer skills including e-mail, word processing, file management and internet web browsing.

 

Career Opportunities

You can find satisfying work as a Massage Therapist in private practice, rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospice centres, chiropractic clinics, and health care centres/hospitals providing prenatal care and birthing facilities. Taking a step away from these traditional settings, you could also have an interesting career as a Massage Therapist for a sports team, a spa facility, at a resort, or even with a corporation providing employee care/retention programs. Finding a career in massage therapy upon graduation is reasonably easy, with many grads opening up a private practice. Particularly with the current emphasis on alternative health care/complementary care, and the increase of people over the age of 55, opportunities in the field should be numerous.

 

Minimum Admission Requirements

OSSD with the majority of credits at the College (C) and Open (O) level, including:

• 2 College (C) English courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
• 2 College (C) Science courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12) 

When (C) is the minimum course level for admission, (U) or (U/C) courses are also accepted.

 Recommended:

• Grade 11 College Biology
• Kinesiology, Chemistry
• U/C level courses

(Although not required for admission, the above recommendations will help to prepare you for the program.) 

Mature Students
If you are 19 years of age or older before classes start, and you do not possess an OSSD, you can write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test to assess your eligibility for admission. 
All applicants will be required to achieve course credit in the mandatory sciences, through Secondary School or through Academic Upgrading programs.

 

Selection Process

 

Related Programs

If you're interested in other health care careers, you might want to consider the Occupational Therapist Assistant/Physiotherapist Assistant, the Practical Nursing or Trent/Fleming - Bachelor of Science Nursing programs.

 

Health Requirements

You should be in good physical and mental health. Independent physical mobility and manual dexterity are essential. If you have a medical concern, you are strongly advised to discuss your concerns with your program co-ordinator, and to consult with your doctor.

 

Additional Costs

You should plan to spend up to $1,500 per year for books and supplies. Students are also required to purchase a massage therapy table (costs range from $500 - $1,500) prior to entering their fourth semester, two massage therapy program shirts, and khaki pants of their choice. You may also need to allocate funds for travel to placements. Students planning to write the provincial College of Massage Therapists of Ontario registration exam will be required to pay the fee set by C.M.T.O.

 

University Transfer Agreements

• Athabasca University
• University of Ontario Institute of Technology
• University of Western Sydney

Course	Hours
Semester 1
Introduction to Physiology	75.00
Communications for Community Development & Health	45.00
Concepts in Health Care	45.00
Intro to Massage and Ethics Practice	105.00
Intro to Massage and Ethics Theory	45.00
Introduction to Psychology	45.00
Introductory Anatomy	60.00
Introductory Computing	45.00
Semester 2
Communicating at Work	45.00
Human Growth and Development	45.00
Hydro/Rem.Ex Practice	120.00
Hydro/Rem.Ex Theory	75.00
Regional Anatomy	120.00
Semester 3
Assessment Practice	90.00
Assessment Theory	60.00
Physiology	135.00
General Education Elective
Semester 4
Clinical Theory I	75.00
Clinical Treatment I	60.00
Field Experience I	45.00
Introduction to Pathophysiology	90.00
General Education Elective
Semester 5
Clinical Pathology I	90.00
Clinical Theory II	60.00
Clinical Treatment II	75.00
Field Experience II	45.00
Management Strategies for Small Business	45.00
Semester 6
Clinical Pathology II	90.00
Clinical Theory III	90.00
Clinical Treatment III	90.00
Comprehensive Exam	15.00
Field Experience III	45.00

Semester 1

Introduction to Physiology

Course Number: SCIE018

In this course, students are introduced to fundamental concepts of homeostasis, cell physiology and the most relevant elements of the structure and function of the basic tissues of the body. Emphasis will be placed on the biology of the components of the musculoskeletal system: cartilage, bone, and muscle. An overview of the nervous system and the physiology of nerve impulse conduction are included.

Units: 75.00
Hours: 75.00

Communications for Community Development & Health

Course Number: COMM079

Communications for CD&H, a mandatory Communications course, focuses on improving reading and writing skills through a number of assignments related to the helping professions. Students will demonstrate skills in summary and essay writing as well as research techniques, including appropriate documentation of sources. The principles of style, structure, content, and mechanics constitute the overall framework of the course.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Concepts in Health Care

Course Number: HLTH065

This introductory course provides an overview of major issues that impact the health care system both in Canada and abroad. Students will examine various federal and provincial legislative regulations and frameworks that health care professionals operate within. The roles of various healthcare providers will be compared and contrasted. Issues impacting all healthcare providers such as accountability, interdisciplinary team work, advocacy, documentation, and confidentiality will be examined. This course will provide a fundamental understanding of your selected healthcare profession, and how it functions within the larger healthcare system.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Intro to Massage and Ethics Practice

Course Number: HLTH020

This course provides students with the opportunity to apply, on site, the knowledge, skills, theory, and principles explored in Intro to Massage and Ethics Theory.

Units: 105.00
Hours: 105.00

Intro to Massage and Ethics Theory

Course Number: HLTH084

This course provides students with a historical perspective of massage therapy. The theoretical, legal, and ethical foundations fundamental to the practice of massage therapy will be emphasized. Over the semester each student will spend 12 scheduled hours in the on-site massage clinic.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Introduction to Psychology

Course Number: SOCI036

This course offers a systematic approach to exploring human behaviour. The concepts and empirical findings are examined using a variety of theoretical approaches. Major topics include perception, motivation, learning, memory, intelligence, and personality.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Introductory Anatomy

Course Number: SCIE022

Introductory Anatomy is an introduction to the study of the anatomy (structure) of the human body. This course includes some microscopic anatomy but focuses primarily on the macroscopic anatomy of all body systems and brief related physiology.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Introductory Computing

Course Number: COMP345

Working in the Windows XP environment, this computer course introduces the student to computer basics (computer terminology, e-mail, Internet, file management) and the application and use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. Through the extensive use of hands-on activities, students will gain sufficient knowledge and experience to make productive use of computers as a tool in both college and workplace environments.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 2

Communicating at Work

Course Number: COMM002

This course will enable you to continue to improve your general communication skills to meet the learning outcomes demanded by the assignments in this course, as well as the expectations of other subjects and eventual career employment. This course emphasizes concepts of critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they apply to processes fundamental to effective communication. You will continue to reinforce speaking, writing, reading, and listening techniques common to the expectations demanded by the work place of your career choice by applying, at a more sophisticated level, principles of style, structure, mechanics and techniques (for orals).

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Human Growth and Development

Course Number: SOCI025

This course is designed to give the student a basic understanding of the normal patterns of growth and development at various stages within the life cycle from infancy through to old age. The major theories of development will be examined to enhance understanding of this field of study.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Hydro/Rem.Ex Practice

Course Number: HLTH018

This course is designed to continue to provide a practical application for students to build on knowledge, skills and theory explored in Hydrotherapy/Remedial Exercise Theory. Students will be supervised by a Massage Therapy instructor during lab time.

Units: 120.00
Hours: 120.00

Hydro/Rem.Ex Theory

Course Number: HLTH019

This course will provide the massage therapy student with the principles & techniques of hydrotherapy, kinesiology and therapuetic exercise as it applies to the practice of massage therapy.

Units: 75.00
Hours: 75.00

Regional Anatomy

Course Number: SCIE125

This course examines the anatomy of the vertebral column, thorax, abdomen, pelvis, upper limb, lower limb, head and neck. The study of the structures of the musculoskeletal system (bones, ligaments, joints and muscles) and the peripheral nervous system are emphasized. The description of each region is completed with an outline of its arteries, veins and lymph drainage. Regional Anatomy is a pre-requisite for advancement to semester three in the Massage Therapy and Physiotherapist and Occupational Therapist Assistant programs.

Units: 120.00
Hours: 120.00

Semester 3

Assessment Practice

Course Number: HLTH039

This course is designed to provide the student the opportunity to apply 'on-site' the knowledge, skills, theory and principles explored in Assessment Theory. Students will be supervised by a Massage Therapy instructor during lab time.

Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00

Assessment Theory

Course Number: HLTH001

This course provides students with knowledge in orthopaedic physical assessment and examination skills for the adult.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Physiology

Course Number: SCIE001

This course encompasses the study of the physiologic functions of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, lymphatic, neurological, endocrine and reproductive systems. Each system is described and analyzed with emphasis upon the mechanisms involved in maintaining homeostasis. The interconnectedness of these systems will be explored and discussed.

Units: 135.00
Hours: 135.00

Semester 4

Clinical Theory I

Course Number: HLTH002

This course introduces the basis for the student to formulate, implement, and document a comprehensive plan of care (treatment plan). It describes the clinical thinking process which underlies the cycle of client evaluation, planning, treatment, and discharge, and applies it to the full range of common impairments which are relevant for conditions listed in the CMTO Competency Standards documents (2002). Through lecture and group study both impairments and clinical cases will be examined with respect to: signs and symptoms, relevant anatomy and physiology, associated functional limitations, assessment/evaluation procedures, contraindications and/or precautions, appropriate treatment hydrotherapy, exercise and massage techniques, related home-care, progression of treatment, and prognosis. This 75-hour course is offered in a 15-week semester. One 3-hour and one 2-hour lecture are scheduled each week for 15 weeks, with the exception of Week 8 (Independent Study Week).

Units: 75.00
Hours: 75.00

Clinical Treatment I

Course Number: HLTH005

This is a practical course for students to apply the knowledge, skills & theory explored in Clinical Theory 1 class. (Cross-refer to the course outline for Clinical Theory 1.) It provides specific opportunities to practice the massage, hydrotherapy, and exercise techniques appropriate to treat the full range of common impairments which are relevant for 'conditions' listed in the CMTO Competency Standards document (2002). (These 'conditions', along with representative case studies will be studied in depth in semester 5 and 6.) Students will be supervised by an instructor during lab time.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Field Experience I

Course Number: HLTH010

This Field Experience is designed to provide the student the opportunity to apply 'on site', the knowledge, skills, theory and principles explored in Massage Therapy Program thus to date. Students will be supervised by an instructor during Field Experience placement.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Introduction to Pathophysiology

Course Number: SCIE025

This course builds upon previous knowledge of systemic physiology and extends this onto the basis of disease processes. Basic pathological principles including injury, inflammation and healing processes of various tissue types: common immune-mediated disorders: infections, genetic disorders, cancer as well as stress and pain are explored. The term concludes with an in depth examination of bone pathology. Biological problem-solving, critical analysis and research skills are emphasized.

Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00

Semester 5

Clinical Pathology I

Course Number: SCIE026

This is a systemic pathology course that examines the major diseases affecting joints, skeletal muscles and skin, the cardiovascular systems, blood and the central nervous system. The etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical features of the various disorders are emphasized, as well as their relevance in massage therapy.

Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00

Clinical Theory II

Course Number: HLTH003

This course provides and expands the basis for the student to formulate, implement, and document a comprehensive plan of care (treatment plan). It describes the clinical thinking process which underlies the cycle of client evaluation, planning, treatment, and discharge, and applies it to a variety of histories and conditions, including orthopedic conditions listed in the C.M.T.O. Competency Standards document. Through lecture and group study both orthopedic pathologies and related clinical cases will be examined with respect to: signs and symptoms, structures involved, associated impairments and functional limitations, contraindications and/or precautions, appropriate hydrotherapy/massage manipulations, related home-care, progression of treatment, and prognosis. This 60-hour course is offered in a 15-week semester. Two 2-hour lectures are scheduled each week for 15 weeks, with the exception of Week 8 (Independent Study Week).

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Clinical Treatment II

Course Number: HLTH006

This course provides students with the opportunity to apply, in class, the knowledge, skills, theory, and principles explored in Clinical Theory II. An instructor will supervise students four hours per week during labs, with an additional one hour per week of self-directed learning in lab.

Units: 75.00
Hours: 75.00

Field Experience II

Course Number: FLPL005

This Field Experience is designed to provide the student the opportunity to apply 'on site', the knowledge, skills, theory and principles explored in Massage Therapy Program thus to date. Students will be supervised by a Registered Massage Therapist during Field Experience placement.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Management Strategies for Small Business

Course Number: BUSN016

This course presents a fundamental approach to managing a small firm in the Canadian business environment. It is designed to develop an understanding of planning the start-up of a business, its ongoing management and strategies for growth. Students develop an understanding of the legal forms of business ownership, the importance of financial analysis as a success indicator for the business and appropriate marketing tactics for promoting small business. The student progresses to the development of an actual Business Plan for their own business idea.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 6

Clinical Pathology II

Course Number: SCIE027

This is a systemic pathology course that examines the major diseases affecting respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and endocrine systems. The etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical features of the various disorders are emphasized, as well as their relevance in massage therapy.

Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00

Clinical Theory III

Course Number: HLTH004

This course provides a basic introduction to research literacy: finding and evaluating evidence and applying it to massage therapy practice. It then uses evidence-based practice as a theme to continue the previous aims of Clinical Theory I and Clinical Theory II, expanding the basis for the student to formulate, implement, and document a comprehensive plan of care (treatment plan). It describes the clinical thinking process and applies it to a variety of histories and conditions, including systemic conditions listed in the C.M.T.O. Competency Standards document. Through lecture and group study research methods, systemic pathologies and clinical cases will be examined. This 90-hour course is offered in a 15-week semester. Two 3-hour lectures are scheduled each week for 15 weeks, with the exception of Week 8 (Independent Learning Week).

Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00

Clinical Treatment III

Course Number: HLTH007

This course provides students with the opportunity to apply, in class, the knowledge, skills, theory, and principles explored in Clinical Theory III. An instructor will supervise students at all times during lab time. This 90-hour course is offered in a 15-week semester. Two 3-hour classes are scheduled each week for 15 weeks, with the exception of Week 8 (Independent Learning Week).

Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00

Comprehensive Exam

Course Number: HLTH037

The comprehensive exam consists of a written multiple choice, and a practical OSCE. Students must pass each in order to graduate from the Massage Therapy Program. These exams are conducted to mimic The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario's registration exams. They contain material from all three years of the program.

Units: 15.00
Hours: 15.00

Field Experience III

Course Number: HLTH015

This Field Experience is designed to provide students with the opportunity to apply, 'on site,' the knowledge, skills, theory, and principles explored in the Massage Therapy Program to date. Students will be supervised by an instructor during Field Experience placement.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00