Massage Therapy

Overview

As a massage therapist, you can make a real difference in people’s daily lives. You can support mental health, relieve stress, reduce chronic pain, improve sleep, and promote overall healing and recovery through your work. Massage therapy offers a practical and accessible way to help others feel better in their bodies — and your hands can be the key to their well-being.

At Elgin Community College (ECC), our Massage Therapy Program prepares students to take the MBLEx exam necessary for state licensure and begin a rewarding career in health and wellness. ECC’s vocational certificate program offers COMTA-accredited, state-approved, and affordable education, featuring:

• Experienced instructors and modern lab facilities
• Flexible full-time and part-time schedules
• Convenient start dates in both Fall and Spring semesters

Massage Therapy Curriculum

ECC’s 38.5-credit-hour Vocational Certificate in Massage Therapy provides a holistic education integrating body, mind, and spirit. The coursework prepares students for licensure and immediate employment.

Program Mission & Goals

The Massage Therapy Department supports ECC’s mission of improving people’s lives through learning. Our goal is to provide:

• Highly qualified instructors
• Rigorous, hands-on education exceeding industry standards
• A foundation of critical thinking, compassion, and professional skill

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The job outlook for massage therapists is strong, driven by growing interest in holistic health, stress relief, and pain management. More medical centers now include massage therapy in treatment plans, further boosting demand. The profession is projected to grow 15% from 2024 to 2034 (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Refer to Career Coach for more information on related occupations and compensation. 

Frequently Asked Questions