Health and Wellness Promotion - Massage Therapy Option A.A.S.

Associate in Applied Science
Career Degree
Cost
$10,850* (estimated)

Promote relaxation and healing

Learn bodywork techniques based in the sciences

Promote relaxation and healing using science-based massage techniques. Apply the essentials of human anatomy, physiology, palpation, pathology and more. Develop your practice with key communication, business and clinical skills. Separate yourself from the rest. While massage therapy requires a certificate for licensure, very few take the next step and earn their degree in the field.

What can you do with an A.A.S. focusing on Massage Therapy?

In addition to performing massage on clients, obtaining this degree may provide you with additional professional opportunities including supervision and management.

Professional recognition

Successful completion of our programs prepares you to earn advanced credentials through the:


American College of Sports Medicine logo

Highlights

  • Program Length: 3 Years

    Full-time students can complete in 3 years.

  • Stackable Credentials

    Earn college credits and learn as you go with stackable credentials.

  • Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

    Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).

  • Career Degree

    Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning an associate degree in 2 years.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

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Need help getting started?

Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, see the CLC college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    ENG 121

    ENG 121 English Composition I

    Class Description

    This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
         		3
    • Credit for prior learning available
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    KIN 228

    KIN 228 First Aid/CPR

    Class Description

    (Previously PED 228) This course is designed to prepare citizen responders with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to emergency and first-aid situations. First aid, CPR, and AED for adults, children, and infants are included in this course. Students will be eligible to take national certification exams upon successful completion of each respective content area.
         		2
    • Dual credit options available
    HWP 257

    HWP 257 Health and Wellness Practicum I

    Class Description

    This course will introduce students to the process of structured field observation. Opportunities will focus on careers in health and wellness promotion. Regular contact time with an instructor will also be provided.
         		1
    • Online/Virtual options available
    HWP 240

    HWP 240 Contemporary Health Issues

    Class Description

    This course is a survey of issues related to holistic health as they pertain to personal growth and quality of life. Emphasis is placed upon behavioral changes and strategies for lifetime wellness.
         		3
    • Credit for prior learning available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    HWP 260

    HWP 260 Sport and Exercise Nutrition

    Class Description

    This course will introduce students to the relationship between fundamental nutrition principles and sport and exercise science. The efficacy of performance-based dietary supplements and related ethical issues will also be explored.
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code ENG 121
      Course Title

      ENG 121 English Composition I

      Class Description

      This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Credit for prior learning available
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code KIN 228
      Course Title

      KIN 228 First Aid/CPR

      Class Description

      (Previously PED 228) This course is designed to prepare citizen responders with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to emergency and first-aid situations. First aid, CPR, and AED for adults, children, and infants are included in this course. Students will be eligible to take national certification exams upon successful completion of each respective content area.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
    • Course Code HWP 257
      Course Title

      HWP 257 Health and Wellness Practicum I

      Class Description

      This course will introduce students to the process of structured field observation. Opportunities will focus on careers in health and wellness promotion. Regular contact time with an instructor will also be provided.
      Credits 1
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code HWP 240
      Course Title

      HWP 240 Contemporary Health Issues

      Class Description

      This course is a survey of issues related to holistic health as they pertain to personal growth and quality of life. Emphasis is placed upon behavioral changes and strategies for lifetime wellness.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Credit for prior learning available
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code HWP 260
      Course Title

      HWP 260 Sport and Exercise Nutrition

      Class Description

      This course will introduce students to the relationship between fundamental nutrition principles and sport and exercise science. The efficacy of performance-based dietary supplements and related ethical issues will also be explored.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available

    Course options: Students can choose ENG 120 instead of ENG 121.

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    MAS 110

    MAS 110 Massage Structure and Functions I

    Class Description

    This course examines the anatomy and physiology of cells and tissues that underlie the normal functioning of the human body. Content includes an introduction to the principal bones and muscles, as well as their structure and functions at both a cellular and tissue level. Anatomic or physiological principles as related to practical application in therapeutic massage will be covered. Course also covers basic principles of pathology and the major pathological conditions likely to be encountered in massage therapy.
         		2
    MAS 112

    MAS 112 Kinesiology and Palpation I

    Class Description

    Course examines the skeletal and muscular systems that underlie the normal functioning of the body. Content includes a study of the structure of each major joint of the body and how the surrounding musculature affects the support and function of those joints. Principles of kinesiology are geared toward practical applications in the field of massage therapy, including major pathological conditions likely to be encountered.
         		2
    MAS 114

    MAS 114 Massage: Communication & Business I

    Class Description

    This course introduces students to interpersonal communication theories, concepts of professional boundaries, and ethical touch. This course also introduces students to business and professional practices of the massage therapy industry. Initial preparation for the massage therapy licensing exam will be covered.
         		3
    MAS 116

    MAS 116 Clinical Skills and Special Populations

    Class Description

    This course introduces the students to the basic aspects of the procedural process of assessing, treatment planning and documenting in a massage clinic. Case-based applications and case discussions are utilized during the course to enhance the student's critical thinking skills. This course examines basic massage techniques and procedures when working with special populations including, but not limited to, geriatric, pregnant, cancer, and HIV clients. Students will learn basic chair massage skills and will practice and demonstrate massage techniques.Note: Required local chair massage outreach events are scheduled during several of the class sessions. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from outreach sites.
         		3
    MAS 131

    MAS 131 Massage Therapy I: Swedish

    Class Description

    This course involves hands-on learning of basic Swedish massage techniques and strokes, including effleurage, friction, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, and joint movements. Content includes body mechanics, draping techniques, client intake, contraindications, and listening skills.
         		2
    MAS 132

    MAS 132 Massage Therapy II: Integrative

    Class Description

    This course introduces students to the fundamentals of three massage modalities; Craniosacral Therapy, Foot Reflexology, and Polarity Therapy. The concept of the "Fascial Web" is also introduced.
         		2
    • Course Code MAS 110
      Course Title

      MAS 110 Massage Structure and Functions I

      Class Description

      This course examines the anatomy and physiology of cells and tissues that underlie the normal functioning of the human body. Content includes an introduction to the principal bones and muscles, as well as their structure and functions at both a cellular and tissue level. Anatomic or physiological principles as related to practical application in therapeutic massage will be covered. Course also covers basic principles of pathology and the major pathological conditions likely to be encountered in massage therapy.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 112
      Course Title

      MAS 112 Kinesiology and Palpation I

      Class Description

      Course examines the skeletal and muscular systems that underlie the normal functioning of the body. Content includes a study of the structure of each major joint of the body and how the surrounding musculature affects the support and function of those joints. Principles of kinesiology are geared toward practical applications in the field of massage therapy, including major pathological conditions likely to be encountered.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 114
      Course Title

      MAS 114 Massage: Communication & Business I

      Class Description

      This course introduces students to interpersonal communication theories, concepts of professional boundaries, and ethical touch. This course also introduces students to business and professional practices of the massage therapy industry. Initial preparation for the massage therapy licensing exam will be covered.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 116
      Course Title

      MAS 116 Clinical Skills and Special Populations

      Class Description

      This course introduces the students to the basic aspects of the procedural process of assessing, treatment planning and documenting in a massage clinic. Case-based applications and case discussions are utilized during the course to enhance the student's critical thinking skills. This course examines basic massage techniques and procedures when working with special populations including, but not limited to, geriatric, pregnant, cancer, and HIV clients. Students will learn basic chair massage skills and will practice and demonstrate massage techniques.Note: Required local chair massage outreach events are scheduled during several of the class sessions. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from outreach sites.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 131
      Course Title

      MAS 131 Massage Therapy I: Swedish

      Class Description

      This course involves hands-on learning of basic Swedish massage techniques and strokes, including effleurage, friction, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, and joint movements. Content includes body mechanics, draping techniques, client intake, contraindications, and listening skills.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 132
      Course Title

      MAS 132 Massage Therapy II: Integrative

      Class Description

      This course introduces students to the fundamentals of three massage modalities; Craniosacral Therapy, Foot Reflexology, and Polarity Therapy. The concept of the "Fascial Web" is also introduced.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    MAS 210

    MAS 210 Massage Structure and Functions II

    Class Description

    This course examines the anatomy and physiology of tissues and organs that underlie the normal functioning of the body. Content focuses on the anatomical and physiological principles as related to therapeutic massage. This course also examines the impact of massage therapy on the normal functioning of body systems as well as principles of pathology and the major pathological conditions likely to be encountered in massage therapy.
         		2
    MAS 233

    MAS 233 Massage Therapy III: Rehabilitative

    Class Description

    This course combines two therapeutic modalities - Neuromuscular Therapy and Sports Massage Therapy. Content includes both functional assessment and corrective concepts.
         		2
    • Course Code MAS 210
      Course Title

      MAS 210 Massage Structure and Functions II

      Class Description

      This course examines the anatomy and physiology of tissues and organs that underlie the normal functioning of the body. Content focuses on the anatomical and physiological principles as related to therapeutic massage. This course also examines the impact of massage therapy on the normal functioning of body systems as well as principles of pathology and the major pathological conditions likely to be encountered in massage therapy.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 233
      Course Title

      MAS 233 Massage Therapy III: Rehabilitative

      Class Description

      This course combines two therapeutic modalities - Neuromuscular Therapy and Sports Massage Therapy. Content includes both functional assessment and corrective concepts.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    MAS 212

    MAS 212 Kinesiology and Palpation II

    Class Description

    This course continues an examination of the skeletal and muscular systems that underlie the normal functioning of the body. Content includes an introduction to the complexities of movement, and the directional terminology associated with that movement. Students build upon their knowledge of the skeletal system and the core muscles for movement and stability.
         		2
    MAS 214

    MAS 214 Massage: Communication and Business II

    Class Description

    This course covers more advanced communication techniques for managing the client-massage therapist relationship. Comprehensive examination of professional ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations for a massage therapy business are covered. Emphasis is placed on massage industry-specific professional essentials, including, but not limited to: business acumen, advertising and marketing, elements of effective job searches and applications, creating a business plan, and maintaining a client base. More advanced preparation and practice for the massage licensing exam will be covered.
         		3
    MAS 234

    MAS 234 Massage Therapy IV: Advanced Techniques

    Class Description

    This course involves hands-on learning of the fascial system and fascial web. Content includes therapeutic massage techniques and strokes, with an understanding of the connective tissue which supports the body. This course also serves as an introduction to Eastern healing theories emphasizing the practical application and function of Shiatsu and exploration of the twelve channels. This course blends didactic lecture with hands-on practice.
         		2
    HWP 290

    HWP 290 Principles of Health and Wellness Coaching

    Class Description

    This course will explore the six dimensions of contemporary health as they specifically apply to the wellness coaching continuum. Theoretical coaching constructs will be introduced and practical application will be encouraged through a variety of class activities.
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    PSY 121

    PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

    Class Description

    This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
         		3
    • Credit for prior learning available
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code MAS 212
      Course Title

      MAS 212 Kinesiology and Palpation II

      Class Description

      This course continues an examination of the skeletal and muscular systems that underlie the normal functioning of the body. Content includes an introduction to the complexities of movement, and the directional terminology associated with that movement. Students build upon their knowledge of the skeletal system and the core muscles for movement and stability.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 214
      Course Title

      MAS 214 Massage: Communication and Business II

      Class Description

      This course covers more advanced communication techniques for managing the client-massage therapist relationship. Comprehensive examination of professional ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations for a massage therapy business are covered. Emphasis is placed on massage industry-specific professional essentials, including, but not limited to: business acumen, advertising and marketing, elements of effective job searches and applications, creating a business plan, and maintaining a client base. More advanced preparation and practice for the massage licensing exam will be covered.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MAS 234
      Course Title

      MAS 234 Massage Therapy IV: Advanced Techniques

      Class Description

      This course involves hands-on learning of the fascial system and fascial web. Content includes therapeutic massage techniques and strokes, with an understanding of the connective tissue which supports the body. This course also serves as an introduction to Eastern healing theories emphasizing the practical application and function of Shiatsu and exploration of the twelve channels. This course blends didactic lecture with hands-on practice.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HWP 290
      Course Title

      HWP 290 Principles of Health and Wellness Coaching

      Class Description

      This course will explore the six dimensions of contemporary health as they specifically apply to the wellness coaching continuum. Theoretical coaching constructs will be introduced and practical application will be encouraged through a variety of class activities.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code PSY 121
      Course Title

      PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

      Class Description

      This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Credit for prior learning available
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HWP 280

    HWP 280 Introduction to Complementary and Integrative Health Care

    Class Description

    This course provides an introduction to the theoretical and applied evidence-bases for complementary and integrative health and medical practices. Students will explore the etiology, scope-of-practice, and efficacy of natural products, mind and body practices, and other complementary health approaches. This course is well-suited for aspiring and current health care professionals as well as transfer students interested in their personal health and well-being.
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    PHI 125

    PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics

    Class Description

    In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.
         		3
    • Global citizenship
    • Online/Virtual options available
    CMM 121

    CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

    Class Description

    For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
         		3
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    BIO 111

    BIO 111 Human Form and Function

    Class Description

    This course is intended to provide students with a preliminary introduction to human anatomy and physiology. It is designed to prepare students requiring only a technical level of familiarity with human anatomy, providing the background required for fields such as Surgical Technology and Emergency Medical Technology -- Paramedic.
         		4
    • Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code HWP 280
      Course Title

      HWP 280 Introduction to Complementary and Integrative Health Care

      Class Description

      This course provides an introduction to the theoretical and applied evidence-bases for complementary and integrative health and medical practices. Students will explore the etiology, scope-of-practice, and efficacy of natural products, mind and body practices, and other complementary health approaches. This course is well-suited for aspiring and current health care professionals as well as transfer students interested in their personal health and well-being.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code PHI 125
      Course Title

      PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics

      Class Description

      In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Global citizenship
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code CMM 121
      Course Title

      CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

      Class Description

      For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code BIO 111
      Course Title

      BIO 111 Human Form and Function

      Class Description

      This course is intended to provide students with a preliminary introduction to human anatomy and physiology. It is designed to prepare students requiring only a technical level of familiarity with human anatomy, providing the background required for fields such as Surgical Technology and Emergency Medical Technology -- Paramedic.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available

    Course options: Students can choose PHI 121 instead of PHI 125, CMM 123 or CMM 111 instead of CMM 121, and BIO 244 instead of BIO 111.

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HWP 295

    HWP 295 Professional Essentials for Health and Wellness Practitioners

    Class Description

    The rapidly growing field of preventive health and wellness has resulted in the creation of numerous career and professional opportunities. These include health and wellness coaching, personal and group fitness training, community health education, and health promotion programming. This course goes beyond the required traditional knowledge and skills and focuses on industry-specific professional essentials including; business acumen, interpersonal communication, and ethics and legal considerations.
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    HWP 258

    HWP 258 Health and Wellness Practicum II

    Class Description

    This course will introduce students to supervised competency- based practice in health and wellness. This on-the-job training in the greater Lake County area provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate acquired skills and knowledge and to continue to develop as a professional. Included will be group seminar sessions with other students and regular meetings with the CLC instructor/ supervisor.
         		1
    • Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code HWP 295
      Course Title

      HWP 295 Professional Essentials for Health and Wellness Practitioners

      Class Description

      The rapidly growing field of preventive health and wellness has resulted in the creation of numerous career and professional opportunities. These include health and wellness coaching, personal and group fitness training, community health education, and health promotion programming. This course goes beyond the required traditional knowledge and skills and focuses on industry-specific professional essentials including; business acumen, interpersonal communication, and ethics and legal considerations.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code HWP 258
      Course Title

      HWP 258 Health and Wellness Practicum II

      Class Description

      This course will introduce students to supervised competency- based practice in health and wellness. This on-the-job training in the greater Lake County area provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate acquired skills and knowledge and to continue to develop as a professional. Included will be group seminar sessions with other students and regular meetings with the CLC instructor/ supervisor.
      Credits 1
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available

    Course options: Students can take BIO 245 this term but only if BIO 244 was completed instead of BIO 111 in a previous term.

Total Credit Hours

62


Female student taking notes in class

Health and Wellness Promotion at CLC

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