MTP 100 BASIC MASSAGE THERAPY

On-Demand

This course is designed to introduce students to basic theories and techniques for the lay person to perform massage. Students will learn definitions and principles necessary to perform massage safely. Techniques for massaging someone in both seated and reclining positions will be taught. This course is for anyone who wants to learn simple techniques to perform massage on family and friends, and is also strongly recommended for students considering entering the Massage Therapy program.

Credit: 1 hour – one lecture hour per week.

Prerequisite(s): None

 

MTP 101 INTRODUCTION TO MASSAGE THERAPY

Fall

This course is designed to introduce students to the history of massage therapy, current trends, and basic principles and techniques of therapeutic massage. Students will learn medical terminology, communication skills, how to conduct a client consultation and assessment, and what to document in client records. Students will study pathology and the indications and contraindications for massage.

Credit: 3 hours – three lecture hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): None

 

MTP 102 MASSAGE THERAPY ETHICS AND LAWS

Fall

This course is designed to explore ethical issues and laws that affect massage therapists including professional standards, therapeutic relationships and boundaries. Students will discuss behaviors that are ethical and unethical. Missouri and Illinois laws will be covered. Other topics include hygiene and universal precautions, HIV, hepatitis, and the importance of continuing education and professional development.

Credit: 2 hours – Two lecture hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): None

 

MTP 103 ANCILLARY MODALITIES

Fall

This course addresses various topics related to the practice of massage therapy. Students will learn about stretching, hydrotherapy, nutrition and metabolism, aromatherapy, time management and stress management. Also included is an introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Credit: 3 hours – Three lecture hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): None

 

MTP 104 MASSAGE THERAPY TECHNIQUES I

Fall

This course is designed to provide the initial training in therapeutic massage. Students will learn Swedish massage techniques and how to apply them to various body parts. Other topics include use of equipment and supplies, positioning, draping, palpation, pressure, effects of massage, and self-care for massage therapists, including body mechanics and avoiding burnout.

Credit: 4 hours – Two lecture hours and four lab hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): None

 

MTP 201 ADVANCED MASSAGE THERAPY

Spring

This course is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to learn various massage techniques such as sports massage, seated massage, positional release and myofascial release. Students will also learn the characteristics of deep tissue massage.

Credit: 3 hours – Two lecture and two lab hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Introduction to Massage Therapy-MTP 101, Massage Therapy Techniques I-MTP 104, and Anatomy and Physiology-BIO 212

 

MTP 202 MASSAGE THERAPY ANATOMY

Spring

This course is designed to focus on the tissues most affected by massage therapy – muscles and fascia. Students will study the origins, insertions, and actions of major muscles, and will trace meridians of fascia through the body. Emphasis will be placed on muscle actions and kinesiology.

Credit: 3 hours – Two lecture and two lab hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Anatomy and Physiology-BIO 212

 

MTP 203 MASSAGE THERAPY BUSINESS PRACTICES

Spring

This course is designed to explore the various aspects of developing and maintaining a successful therapeutic massage practice. Topics include career decisions, job hunting skills, record keeping, starting a massage business, and marketing strategies.

Credit: 2 hours – Two lecture hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): None

 

MTP 204 MASSAGE THERAPY TECHNIQUES II

Spring

This course is designed to expand the skills of students in treatment planning and performing therapeutic massages. Students will learn the differences between massage for relaxation and therapeutic massage, and how to develop a treatment plan. Other topics include joint mobilization, massage in medical settings, newborn massage, prenatal massage and techniques for various pathologies. Students will be required to work in clinical settings outside of class.

Credit: 4 hours – One lecture and 6 lab hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Introduction to Massage Therapy-MTP 101, Massage Therapy Techniques I-MTP 104, and Anatomy and Physiology-BIO 212

 

MTP 205 MASSAGE THERAPY TECHNIQUES III

Summer

This course is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to apply the principles, techniques and procedures learned in previous massage courses. Emphasis will be on performing full body massages that meet the client’s needs and goals. Muscle locations will be reviewed, and students will study trigger points and pain referral patterns. The structure and functions of the body systems will be reviewed.

Credit: 4 hours – Two lecture and 4 lab hours per week.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Introduction to Massage Therapy-MTP 101, Massage Therapy Techniques I-MTP 104, Advanced Massage Therapy-MTP 201, Massage Therapy Anatomy-MTP 202, Massage Therapy Techniques II-MTP 204and Anatomy and Physiology-BIO 212