California Massage Therapy Overview

Massage therapy is a growing field in California, and is expected to expand even more in the coming years. Career opportunities for massage therapists are expected to increase by 20%, resulting in 24,000 new massage therapy positions across the nation by 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook 2008-2009 Edition. California massage therapists can expect to see this same growth rate as the demand for qualified massage practitioners continues to increase.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that massage therapists practicing in California in May 2006 made an average annual wage of $38,640. This is significantly higher than the average annual wage across all healthcare support occupations in California at the time, which was $28,060. Considering that most massage therapists work part-time, it can be assumed that a full-time practitioner will earn a significantly higher income.

While massage therapists are not currently required to obtain state licensure, or to adhere to statewide regulations, legislation (Assembly Bill 1388) is currently being considered that will establish a statewide licensing procedure for massage therapists in California. As of now, licenses to practice and licensure requirements remain at the local level, meaning that prospective massage therapists will need to contact the city or county in which they intend to practice.

To prepare for a massage therapy career in California, browse the massage therapy schools listed below.

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Online Colleges Offering Massage Therapy Degrees

University of Phoenix - Online Campus

Accreditation

University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association. .

McCann School of Business and Technology

Accreditation

McCann School of Business & Technology is accredited to award occupational associate degrees and certification diplomas by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education,.

National Holistic Institute

Accreditation

National Holistic Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). ACCET is listed by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency.

Institute for Business and Technology

Accreditation

The Institute for Business and Technology is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT). ACCSCT is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally-recognized accrediting agency.