How long does it take to become a massage therapist?

To become a massage therapist, most states require at least 500 hours of post-secondary education. A high school diploma is required for admittance into a training program.

A massage therapy program can vary depending on the school, state and type of therapy studied. Programs are typically a minimum of 500 hours, but some programs can require over 1,000 hours for completion.

Programs include studies in physiology, anatomy, kinesiology, ethics and business management. Students are also required to complete a practicum which offers hands-on training in massage. At the conclusion of classroom and practicum work, students are required to take and pass a board certification exam.