Willis College
Massage Therapy
Your Pathway to a Rewarding Career in Massage Therapy
Program Length:
81 weeks
Credential:
- ON Diploma
Program Hours:
2385
Cost per Credit:
$
Online Learning:
N/A
Start Dates
September 28, 2026
Program Completion Date
June 16, 2028
June 16, 2028
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Your Pathway to a Rewarding Career in Massage Therapy
Willis College’s program is the only fully accredited Massage Therapy option in Ottawa that can be completed in less than two years, allowing you to start your career and begin earning sooner. Our programs are CMTCA Accredited through 2030.The Massage Therapy diploma program gives you a focused, hands-on path toward becoming a Registered Massage Therapist through a leading massage therapist course in Ottawa. Through a blend of health science, clinical training, and practical experience, you will learn how to assess clients, provide treatment safely, and support a wide range of care needs. This massage therapy program is designed for students who want a serious, accredited route into regulated healthcare, with training that prepares you for both the clinical realities of practice and the next step toward the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario certification exam and positions you as a graduate of a CMTCA-accredited massage therapy program in Canada.
After completing this massage therapy diploma program, you can pursue opportunities in clinics, private practice, or multi-disciplinary care settings. For students exploring a massage therapist course, this diploma offers a professional path into a regulated field.
Key Program Highlights:
100% CMTO Exam Pass Rate: The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario certification exam is an important step toward becoming a Registered Massage Therapist after completing a massage therapy course in Ontario. Willis College graduates achieved a 100% pass rate and scored, on average, 10% higher than other provincial writers.
Versatile Career Paths: As a massage therapist, you’ll have the flexibility to choose your work environment or even start your own business. The program opens doors to a rewarding career with numerous options.
Comprehensive Training: Explore various massage techniques and methods in this hands-on massage therapy program, gaining the confidence to make a positive impact on others’ well-being. Acquire the skills necessary to enter various healthcare settings and make an immediate, positive contribution to a healing environment.
Willis College Diploma: Upon successful completion of the theory and clinical components, you’ll receive a prestigious Willis College diploma, enhancing your credibility in the field.
Massage Therapy Certification Exam Preparation: The program prepares you for success in the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario Certification Exam, a crucial step toward becoming a Registered Massage Therapist.
Flexible Program Options:
- Standard Program: 81 weeks, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Accelerated Program: 67 weeks, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Note: Student schedules may vary due to the college’s Supervised Student Massage Clinic and Outreach hours.
Full Accreditation: Our accredited massage therapy program in Ottawa has received Full Accreditation from the Canadian Massage Therapy Council for Accreditation, recognizing the high standards of our education. We are proud to have been awarded Accredited status for a five-year term (from 2025–2030), the longest possible term.
Government Recognition: The Ottawa campus is registered with the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005, reflecting our commitment to providing quality education.
Enroll in our Massage Therapy program and elevate your career prospects in the dynamic field of healthcare. Take the first step toward becoming a skilled massage therapist with Willis College. Join us and unlock a world of possibilities in the massage therapy industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this program only focused on relaxation massage?
No. Massage Therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario, and this massage therapy program in Ontario prepares students for much more than general relaxation techniques. You will study anatomy, physiology, pathology, assessment, treatment planning, hydrotherapy, remedial exercise, ethics, law, and professional practice so you can work safely and effectively with a wide range of client needs and conditions.
How do I know if the standard or accelerated program is right for me?
Both options lead to the same Massage Therapy diploma and prepare students for the same professional pathway. The standard program runs 81 weeks from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, while the accelerated option runs 67 weeks from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. The best fit often comes down to your schedule, pace of learning, and how much time you can realistically commit each day.
Will I get enough real clinical experience before graduation?
Yes. Hands-on clinical training is built into the program. For students exploring a massage therapist course, you will gain experience through the Supervised Student Massage Clinic, outreach opportunities, and practical evaluations, giving you the chance to work with members of the public before graduation. The program also includes OSCE exam preparation to help you strengthen your practical skills and feel more prepared for the next step.
$66.33
Average Wage/HR$73.38
High Wage/HRNational Occupation Classification (NOC) for this program: 3236/32201
Source: noc.esdc.gc.ca & Indeed Salary Guide
Help our Students Develop Their Skills in Our Supervised Student Massage Clinic
Take care of your physical and mental health while also supporting the education and training of of our students enrolled in a professional massage therapy program.
Massage appointments are affordable, easy to book, and go a long way in allowing our students to practice the techniques they learn in class!
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Program Outline
Please click on the course title to see the course description.
Students will develop strategies to help them succeed in their academic program and chosen career field. Topics include: Learning preferences, study strategies and note-taking techniques, develop emotional quotient, critical thinking and active thinking skills, time management and organization methods, conflict management techniques, recognizing stress, and sexual violence in the workplace/CMTO policies and guidelines for sexual violence.
Medical Terminology is essential as a base for reading and communicating orally & in writing as students navigate through studies and eventual practice of Massage Therapy. In this course, students will learn a whole new language that is fundamental to success in moving through many other courses in the program. Anatomical terms, directional terms & other related medical terms are covered system by system. Common abbreviations and eponyms are included to assist students in charting.
Ethics and Professional Practice is a theory course focused on developing ethical professional practices and behaviors. Students will learn basic concepts and apply knowledge learned to case studies. This course is a prerequisite for working with the public in student clinic and/or outreach.
This course is an introduction to the practical component of the massage therapy program and provides the basis from which clinical skills are developed. Students will be introduced to the history of massage and will learn the theory of massage therapy to help develop a body of knowledge understood to be the basis of its practice. Massage techniques are thoroughly covered by description, effects, and practice so that students begin to apply them with knowledge of desired outcomes. Safety considerations are also included for all techniques in this course.
The Integumentary System is examined by structure & function to form foundational knowledge before students learn to recognize the many pathologies of this system. Skin conditions are studied by definition, etiology/pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, treatment and complications. Emphasis on appearance and identification of skin conditions and is covered in enough detail so that students are able to distinguish one condition from another
The introduction of hot, cold and contrast therapy as they relate to water in any of its states will be studied in-depth in this course. Students will examine the therapeutic uses, general effects, specific properties and contraindications of water in its various states. Treatment protocols, clinical relevance and contraindications of water in its three states as well as hot, cold, and contrast temperatures will be studied with the opportunity to practice the treatment protocols and incorporate them into massage therapy treatments.
The muscular system is examined by structure and function to form foundational knowledge. Muscle attachments, actions, nerve innervations, trigger point referrals and palpation of the muscles of the upper body are included within this module. Muscle pathologies and pathologies of the muscular system are studied by definition, etiology/pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, treatment and complications. Students will develop massage therapy treatment plans for conditions taking into consideration precautions and modifications to treatment.
This course builds upon skills and knowledge obtained in Muscular System 1. Muscle attachments, actions, nerve innervations and trigger points are studied in detail. Palpation of the muscles of the lower body is included within this module. Pathologies and injuries of the muscular system are studied by definition, etiology/pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, treatment and complications. Massage treatment plans are formulated and discussed in regards to muscle pathologies and injuries.
Upon successful completion of this course students will be confident in treating members of the public in a safe manner that reflects the ethical principles and standards of practice in the profession. They will learn effective communication and treat a variety of persons and common conditions present in the general public.
Laws & Regulations that relate to practice are studied and applied in common clinical scenarios encountered by Massage Therapists. This course contains information on the many Acts in Regulated Provinces that concern the day-to-day delivery of client/patient care. The regulation of Massage Therapy is investigated on a regional, provincial and national level.
Students will learn to develop and apply treatments to common musculoskeletal injuries and pathologies. The emphasis will be on "thinking" the injury or pathology through and forming an appropriate treatment for the various stages of healing. The techniques previously learned become part of the treatment plan that connects impairments in body structure and function to the possible outcomes of massage therapy. This course will reinforce science and considerations for safe, effective practice.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Be confident that they have learned the material from first year and have a solid knowledge base to confidently begin year 2.
This course investigates the regulation of body functions by hormones. Students learn in-depth about the body's response to stress and the implications for Massage Therapists. Endocrine pathologies are examined, focusing on Diabetes. The connection between the endocrine and other systems is examined to facilitate an understanding of Homeostasis.
Students will learn basic pharmacology terms & concepts as well as understand the importance of medication information in history taking. Building a solid understanding of how medications influence assessment, treatment planning, hydrotherapy and exercise are objectives of this module. Students will be confident in using resources to research drug profiles rather than memorize lists of drug names. Successful completion of this module will assist students to safely assess & treat clients/patients who are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications.
This course builds on knowledge of Skeletal, Muscular & Articular Systems. Beginning with theory in the field of Kinesiology and continues on to theory and then application of remedial exercise. The focus is on understanding the indications, modifications and safety considerations for exercises used in rehabilitation of common conditions. Exercises for maintenance of optimum health and continuation of activities of daily living at all ages and stages of life are also covered. Information that identifies inter and intra-professional resources for clients where referral may be beneficial is included.
This course will reinforce health sciences, practice skills and treatment planning learned in earlier courses. Students will incorporate relevant assessment data, research evidence, and clinical experience into developing safe client / patient centred treatment plans. A variety of conditions are treated by relating the impairments in the body structure and function to the possible outcomes of massage therapy. 32. Anatomy and Pathophysiology of the Lymphatic System This course will cover the connections between the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the Lymphatic system. This system plays an important part in the homeostasis of the body and is part of the foundational knowledge for massage therapists in designing and adapting treatments as well as in being able to refer out to other health care individuals where required, for safe care of the client / patient.
This course will cover the connections between the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the respiratory system. This system plays an important part in the homeostasis of the body and is part of the foundational knowledge for massage therapists in designing and adapting treatments as well as in being able to refer out to other health care individuals where required, for safe care of the client / patient.
The Urinary System is first examined by structure & function to form foundational knowledge before students learn the kidney’s role in blood pressure regulation, and other pathologies. Kidney, ureter & bladder conditions are studied by definition, etiology/pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, treatment & complications. Included in this course are Disorders of Acid-Base Balance. Emphasis is on recognition of pathologic symptoms, followed by safe treatment and/or referral to other Health Care Practitioners. Students will practice taking blood pressure readings with a sphygmomanometer.
Students will learn to evaluate their own nutritional status and look at the nutritional needs of the body as a whole. Students will discuss common conditions and deficiencies which can result in adaptation or homeostatic balances that may require referral by massage therapists for additional care for the client.
Students will employ critical thinking skills as they assess and treat diverse patients / clients based upon multifactorial case scenarios. This course is intended to integrate verbal and physical assessments, treatment planning, treatments, hydrotherapy, remedial exercise, and pathology.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Be confident in treating members of the public in a safe manner that reflects the ethical principles and standards of practice of the profession. They will learn effective communication and treat a variety of persons and common conditions presented in the general public at events outside the public clinic which will allow them a diverse variety of clients and clinical experiences.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to be confident that they have successfully been evaluated on the competencies taught throughout the entire program. They will be examined on the oral and practical components to ensure competency as a safe future therapist. Review of the current practical examination components for the provinces will be included.
This course is designed to promote lifelong learning and self-reflection in professional practice. It is an extension of the Student Clinic experience & Continuing Education course that will encourage the habit of regular self-reflection. It is a series of short classes of presentations based on individual self-reflective reflective exercises from the Continuing Education course. Students are evaluated on their individual oral presentations as well as their participation in the group setting during other presentations.
This course will cover the connections between the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the Lymphatic system. This system plays an important part in the homeostasis of the body and is part of the foundational knowledge for massage therapists in designing and adapting treatments as well as in being able to refer out to other health care individuals where required, for safe care of the client/patient.
Students will be introduced to fundamental computer concepts and Microsoft Office applications. Topics include: file/folder creation and management, formatting documents and spreadsheets, how to send and receive emails with attachments, creating a presentation, and how to use the Internet for research.
Students will learn both theory and demonstration of standard hygiene and infection control practices used in Massage Therapy. The role of Public Health in the community and the responsibilities of each practitioner to report communicable disease are emphasized. Common infectious diseases are introduced as well as basic terms of pathology and the inflammatory process.
This course will introduce students to the levels of organization in the body from chemical to cell to tissue to organ to system. Focusing on the importance of cells and how they work together as tissues to perform the functions of the body and maintain homeostasis will set a foundation for studying each system in future courses.
Using prior learning of skeletal & muscle systems, students will discover articulations or joints through both theory and practical methods. Each joint is classified and defined by components and movements to prepare students for learning and practicing joint mobilizations. Indications, safety considerations and common pathologies are included. Incorporation into Treatment Planning is covered in theory.
The skeletal system is examined by structure and function to form foundational knowledge. Palpation of the bones and landmarks of the skeletal system are included within this module. Bone pathologies and pathologies of the skeletal system and injuries are studied by definition, etiology/pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and complications are connected to clinical practice and treatment planning.
This course will provide students an introduction to research. Students will learn to find and analyze research papers quantitatively and qualitatively. Students will decide whether research papers are valid and how they may affect clinical outcomes and quality of care for patients while allowing them to maintain currency in treatment options.
Clinical Assessment 1 introduces the complete assessment process including the patient intake forms, patient history, systems review, observations and understanding posture, gait, range of motion, anatomical palpation, orthopaedical and other special tests as they relate to massage therapy. Students will learn to assess what type of tissue is involved (e.g. muscular, osseous, nervous) establishing a clinical impression in order to determine indications and contraindications to massage therapy. Anatomy palpation is continuously reinforced as it relates to assessment.
The CPR course will help train Massage students for emergency situations. They will be taught the correct resuscitation techniques as well as how to respond to emergencies. This course will also provide important information on injury management and situation assessment. It is extremely salient to the role of the Massage Therapist. Upon successful completion students will receive certification provided by a recognized external agency.
This course builds upon the massage skills learned in Fundamentals of Massage. Techniques covered in Massage Techniques include frictions, trigger points, myofascial release and lymphatic drainage. Techniques are examined for their purpose, indications, contraindications and outcomes. Students will incorporate techniques learned into their treatments based on case scenarios and modify techniques based on patient case history and their responses to the technique and treatment.
This first-year course is intended to increase Massage Therapy student’s business knowledge & practices to prepare for success in the profession. Defining personal & professional goals acts as a starting point to professional goals & expectations are met. Course content includes regulations, business ethics and employment opportunities. The idea of a Business Plan is introduced, and students will create their own plan in the follow-up course: Business 2
This course is designed to promote lifelong learning and self-reflection in professional practice. It is an expansion of the Student Clinic experience that will encourage the habit of regular self-reflection. Quality Assurance and provincial continuing education requirements are included. Students will have a thorough understanding of post-graduate requirements for Massage Therapists in Ontario as well as a variety of sources for continuing education.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Be confident in treating members of the public in a safe manner that reflects the ethical principles and standards of practice of the profession. They will learn effective communication and treat a variety of persons and common conditions presented in the general public at events outside the public clinic that will allow them a diverse variety of clients and clinical experiences.
Clinical Assessment 2 is a continuation of Clinical Assessment 1 and will continue in the evaluation of the musculoskeletal system, with an emphasis on the lower body. Neurological assessment pertinent to the massage therapist will also be studied. Case studies will allow students to practice their assessment and communication skills in a clinic-like manner. Anatomy palpation and joint play will be utilized as it pertains to assessment.
This course will cover the connections between the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the reproductive system. This system plays an important part in the homeostasis of the body and is part of the foundational knowledge for massage therapists in designing and adapting treatments as well as in being able to refer out to other health care individuals where required, for safe care of the client/patient.
The Cardiovascular system & its role in homeostasis are investigated in this course. Anatomy & physiology of the heart & blood vessels is learned along with location of principle arteries and veins. Cardiac pathologies are reviewed and related to signs & symptoms seen in clinical practice. Emphasis is on recognition of pathologic symptoms, followed by safe treatment and/or referral to other Health Care Practitioners. Practical components of this course include taking blood pressure and palpating pulse points in the body.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to design an assessment and treatment specific to a client / patient centered scenario.
This course will cover the connections between the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the digestive system. This system plays an important part in the homeostasis of the body and is part of the foundational knowledge for massage therapists in designing and adapting treatments as well as in being able to refer out to other health care individuals where required, for safe care of the client / patient.
This course will cover the connections between the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the nervous system. This system plays an important part in the homeostasis of the body and is part of the foundational knowledge for massage therapists in designing and adapting treatments as well as in being able to refer out to other health care individuals where required, for safe care of the client/patient.
This course will provide students an introduction to researching on their own. Students will learn to find and analyze research papers quantitatively and qualitatively. Students will decide whether research papers are valid and how they may affect clinical outcomes and quality of care for patients. While allowing them to maintain currency in treatment options. Students will design their own research and report their findings.
Business 2 reinforces and then expands on knowledge gained in the prerequisite Business 1. Students will identify client information required to create adequate documentation and records that need to be maintained, information required to produce adequate documentation and records that need to be maintained as not to incur liability. Course content includes procedures for releasing information to third parties in an appropriate manner. Social media & confidentiality are examined. Guidelines and procedures for successful business start-up & maintenance are reinforced. Students will consistently employ time management, self-direction, collegiality and effective problem solving in order to be successful in the workplace and contribute to the profitability of organizations. Critical thinking exercises will help prepare for marketing success and skills to use in failed service situations. Business plans are completed as a major component of the grade.
Upon successful completion of this course students will be confident in treating members of the public in a safe manner that reflects the ethical principles and standards of practice in the profession. They will learn effective communication and treat a variety of persons and common conditions present in the general public.
This course tests the theoretical components taught throughout the entire program and also prepares students to be tested in a similar format to provincial exams. Strengths and weaknesses are identified early in the course and then content can be adapted to individual/class needs. This ensures all students complete the competencies necessary to be safe, confident and knowledgeable Massage Therapists.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Be confident that they have learned the material from the second year and have a solid knowledge base to confidently prepare for the final comprehensive examinations.
Job Market
Successful graduates from the Willis College Massage Therapy program may choose from a wide variety of work environments such as:
- Medical Offices
- Rehabilitation Clinics
- Medical Spas
- Private Resorts
- Fitness Clubs
- Own home or business
- Massage Therapy Clinics
Salary Information
Average Wage ($/hr) – $18.35
High Wage ($/hr) – $29.73
National Occupation Classification (NOC) for this program: 3236/32201
Source: noc.esdc.gc.ca & www.jobbank.gc.ca
Admissions Requirements
Please note that applications are accepted up to one week prior to the start of the program and are dependent on space and availability.
Academic Admission Requirements:
- Grade 11 or Grade 12 science (university track or college track) with a grade of 65% or more
- Grade 12 English or equivalent with a grade of 65% or more
Admission Requirements:
- Successful Completion of Vulnerable Sector Check*
- Signed Vulnerable Sector Check Acknowledgment Form (which notes that VSCs may be repeated during the program)
- Proof of Up-to-Date Immunizations
- 250-word Reflection Essay
- Proof of receiving a massage from a Registered Massage Therapist within the past 12 months
*Massage Therapists are in a position of trust, providing care to clients who are often in a physically and emotionally vulnerable state. Accordingly, a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) is the appropriate level of screening required for:
- Registration as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO)
- Enrollment in the Massage Therapy program
- Participation in the program’s public clinic and outreach components
Language Requirements:
View the full list of Language Requirements
For Mature Students (19 years of age or older):
We offer alternative admissions options tailored to your province of residence if you do not hold a High School Diploma. Contact us to learn how our Admissions Team can help you take the next step toward your new career.
Applicants with international academic credentials—whether or not they’ve been translated or assessed—may be required to complete an English literacy assessment.
Graduation Requirements:
Willis College diplomas and certificates are awarded to students who successfully complete all courses in their program of study, achieving a minimum grade of 70% or a grade of “Complete,” where applicable. In addition to academic performance, students must meet the minimum standards for attendance, conduct, and academic integrity as outlined in the Student Handbook. For programs that include outreach, clinical hours, practicum, or internships, all required hours must be completed, and a final grade of “Pass” or 70% must be achieved to graduate.
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FAQ's
Is this program only focused on relaxation massage?
No. Massage Therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario, and this massage therapy program in Ontario prepares students for much more than general relaxation techniques. You will study anatomy, physiology, pathology, assessment, treatment planning, hydrotherapy, remedial exercise, ethics, law, and professional practice so you can work safely and effectively with a wide range of client needs and conditions.
How do I know if the standard or accelerated program is right for me?
Both options lead to the same Massage Therapy diploma and prepare students for the same professional pathway. The standard program runs 81 weeks from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, while the accelerated option runs 67 weeks from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. The best fit often comes down to your schedule, pace of learning, and how much time you can realistically commit each day.
Will I get enough real clinical experience before graduation?
Yes. Hands-on clinical training is built into the program. For students exploring a massage therapist course, you will gain experience through the Supervised Student Massage Clinic, outreach opportunities, and practical evaluations, giving you the chance to work with members of the public before graduation. The program also includes OSCE exam preparation to help you strengthen your practical skills and feel more prepared for the next step.
This program is an excellent fit for:
- People interested in working in a multi-disciplinary healthcare clinic, athletic facility or being their own boss.
- Someone who enjoys a flexible work schedule that suits their lifestyle.
- An individual who enjoys helping others and is interested in healthcare, wellness, and wellbeing.
Why choose the Massage Therapy program?
- Clinical Assessment and Treatment Planning: Learn how to assess clients in a career-focused massage therapist course, understand what their body is telling you, and build treatment plans that reflect their needs, goals, stage of recovery, and specific conditions.
- Hands-On Therapeutic Techniques: In this massage therapy program, you will develop practical treatment skills while learning how massage therapy, hydrotherapy, and remedial exercise can support pain relief, mobility, recovery, and everyday function.
- Professional, Client-Centred Care: Build the communication, ethics, and clinical judgment needed to work with clients safely, adapt care thoughtfully, and recognize when another healthcare provider should be involved in a multi-disciplinary setting.
- Health Science That Supports Practice: Strengthen your understanding of anatomy, physiology, pathology, and legal and professional standards so you can make informed treatment decisions and approach client care with greater depth and accuracy.
- Real Clinical Experience Before Graduation: For students exploring a massage therapist course, this hands-on training includes supervised student clinic and outreach experience, where you work with members of the public and begin developing real-world confidence as a therapist.
Save time & money
- Finish most programs and become job-ready in less than a year!
- Get the skills you need to get hired with programs that cut the extras and give you the skills you need to get hired.
- With career support for life with Willis College, our experts will help find you employment no matter how long ago you graduated.
- You don't need three to four years of school to enter the workforce with the skills to start a great paying career!
Exceptional flexibility
- Learn online with instructor-led programs that will prepare you for the career of your dreams.
- On-Campus program availability is also an option for select programs in Ottawa.
- Start school NOW with most program intakes happening every six weeks (no need to wait!)
- No waiting lists, even in our most-popular programs. We'll get you the job training you need to start your career ASAP.
Career-relevant education
- Our programs are programs aligned with real-world, in-demand occupations. We will get you job-ready!
- Most Willis College programs include practicum experience so you can hit the job search running with a great education AND experience.
- Willis College has 160 years of skills training excellence.
- We have real relationships with employers who are waiting to hire qualified Willis College graduates!
Is financing the only thing stopping you from attending school? We can help.
What Our Graduates Are Saying
We are so set up for success, that if we are having a little bit of a tough time with something, there's always someone around to help.
Kim Powers
Massage Therapy