Massage Therapy Fast Track

Train for Your Diploma in Massage Therapy

Program Length:

67 weeks

Credential:

ON Diploma

Program Hours:

2385

Cost per Credit:

Online Learning:

N/A

Start Dates

January 20, 2025

Job-Ready

June 19, 2026

Request Brochure

Train for Your Diploma in Massage Therapy

The Massage Therapy Fast Track program allows students to acquire the hands-on skills and knowledge necessary to start their careers in the healthcare industry. This rewarding career has plenty of options for someone to choose their work environment or start their own business. Students will learn the various methods of massage techniques and gain the confidence to begin helping others feel their best. You will learn the skills necessary to enter an organization and immediately make a positive impact.

Successful completion of the theory and clinical components of the program will qualify the student to receive their Willis College diploma. In addition, the program will help prepare you to complete the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario Certification Exam.

Our accelerated program is 67 weeks from 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday.

*Student schedules may vary as the college’s Massage Therapy Clinic and Massage Therapy Outreach hours may be outside of regular classroom hours.

This program has been granted Preliminary Accreditation by the Canadian Massage Therapy Council For Accreditation.

Our Ottawa campus is registered with the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.

Job Market

Successful graduates from the 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) – $58.40
High Wage ($/hr) – $60.00
National Occupation Classification (NOC) for this program: 3236
Source: noc.esdc.gc.ca & www.jobbank.gc.ca

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 of 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.

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.

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.

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.

Admissions Requirements

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
Completion of Vulnerable Sector Check Acknowledgement Form (advising that VSC may need to be repeated during the program)
Proof of up-to-date immunizations
Completion of a 250-word reflection paper
Submit proof of receiving a massage from a Registered Massage Therapist within the last 12 months.

Language Requirements:

If English is not the student’s first language, and the student has not completed school in English (complete formal education in an approved English language school which offers an approved program of study or three (3) years of full-time study at the secondary or college level in a country where English is an official language or language of common us), students will be required to meet one of the following requirements: * Successfully undertake either the IELTS [Writ:6, Speak:6.5, Listen: 7.5, Read: 6.5]; TOEFL [Writ:20, Speak:20, Listen: 24, Read: 19]; CanTest [Writ:3.5, Speak: 4.5, Listen: 4.0, Read: 4.0]; or Mela Test [Writ:7, Speak: 8, Listen: 8, Read: 8] – scores correspond to requirements of College of Massage Therapists of Ontario language policy) https://www.cmto.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Language-Fluency-Policy.pdf

For Mature Students:
If you don’t have a High School Diploma, we have admissions options specifically for you depending on which province you are enrolling. Please contact us to see how our Admissions Team can help you achieve your new career.

Please note: Students with foreign credentials, regardless of whether their documents have been translated/compared or not, should be tested to establish literacy in the English language.

*Mature student is defined as 19 years or older.

Graduation Requirements:

Willis College diplomas and Certificates will be granted to those students who successfully complete all courses in their program of study, with a passing grade of either 70% or a grade of ‘complete’ where applicable. Students must also meet the minimum standards of progress regarding attendance, behaviours and academic integrity, as set out in our Student Handbook. For programs that include outreach hours, clinical hours, practicum hours or an internship, all hours must be completed and a final grade of ‘Pass’ or 70% must be achieved.

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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.
Someone who has a previous background in healthcare.

Why choose the Massage Therapy Fast Track program?

Finish in just 67 weeks if you choose our accelerated program!
This is an incredibly in-demand job with positions available for Registered Massage Therapists across the country.
Work anywhere in Canada with credentials earned during this program.

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 Winnipeg and 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 wil 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 150 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.

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What Our Graduates Are Saying

Willis College is so flexible for students! My program allowed me to complete all my courses online. I got to choose when I wanted to attend my live lectures which was incredibly helpful around my daily life. This program made it possible for me to pursue a career as a single mom!

Taylor McElroy

Veterinary Medical Assistant

Massage Therapy Fast Track

Train for Your Diploma in Massage Therapy

Train for Your Diploma in Massage Therapy

Job Market

Salary Information

Program Outline

Admissions Requirements

Related Programs

This program is an excellent fit for:

Why choose the Massage Therapy Fast Track program?

Save time & money

Exceptional flexibility

Career-relevant education

Is financing the only thing stopping you from attending school? We can help.

What Our Graduates Are Saying

Willis College

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