700-hour diploma program in Cornelius, North Carolina
Science, skill, and real clinical experience
Prepare for a professional career in massage therapy with 700 hours of hands-on education, clinical experience, and advanced bodywork training near Charlotte, NC.
NC Massage School offers a comprehensive 700-hour massage therapy diploma program in Cornelius, North Carolina, near Charlotte and Lake Norman. The program combines classroom instruction, hands-on therapeutic massage training, clinical neuromuscular therapy, professional development, and supervised client-care experience.
Students graduate with a Diploma in Massage Therapy and advanced clinical bodywork training designed to prepare them for the next steps toward professional massage therapy licensure in North Carolina.
Next class begins February 8, 2027. Classes have limited seating and often fill quickly. Apply now or request information.
Our signature program
The NMT advantage: more than a massage therapy diploma
One of the most distinctive features of NC Massage School is our signature Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) program, designed to provide students with advanced therapeutic knowledge and hands-on skills that go beyond traditional massage education.
Our comprehensive curriculum integrates the science of anatomy, kinesiology, and muscular function with specialized neuromuscular techniques, helping students develop a deeper understanding of the human body and the skills to address muscular dysfunction, soft tissue pain, and movement limitations.
What truly sets us apart? Our graduates earn not only their Massage Therapy Diploma but also an additional Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) Certificate, providing specialized training that can open doors to a broader range of professional opportunities, including therapeutic massage practices, chiropractic offices, wellness centers, and multidisciplinary healthcare settings.
NC Massage School incorporates this valuable training directly into our 700-hour program, giving our students an advantage as they begin their careers.
One comprehensive education. Two credentials. A stronger foundation for your future.
“I have a degree in kinesiology, and I still learned a tremendous amount from Jules and from the program as a whole. The clinical neuromuscular therapy certification was my favorite part of the program.”
Ian Heaton, NC Massage School graduate
Who this program is for
Our diploma program is designed for students who want more than basic massage instruction and seek a hands-on education that prepares them for a professional career.
Career Changers
Adults ready to begin a new career in massage therapy, wellness, or therapeutic bodywork.
Hands-On Learners
Students who learn best through practical instruction, demonstration, practice, and clinical experience.
Future Wellness Professionals
Students interested in working in wellness centers, clinics, spas, sports recovery settings, or private practice.
What you’ll learn
The program provides a balanced foundation in anatomy and physiology, therapeutic massage, neuromuscular therapy, kinesiology, pathology, professional ethics, client care, and supervised clinical experience.
Rather than simply learning massage techniques, students develop the knowledge, body mechanics, assessment skills, communication abilities, and professional confidence needed to work effectively with clients.
| Category | Course | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Fundamental Theory Courses | Foundational Therapeutic Massage Techniques | 140 |
| Applied Neuromuscular Therapy Techniques | 90 | |
| Supervised Clinical Internship | 100 | |
| Anatomy & Physiology Courses | Applied Anatomy & Physiology | 65 |
| Neuromuscular Anatomy & Physiology | 35 | |
| Foundational Courses | Kinesiology | 55 |
| Pathology | 45 | |
| Ethics I & II | 35 | |
| Psychological Concepts I & II | 30 | |
| Practice Building Courses | State Laws I & II | 15 |
| Business and Professional Development | 20 | |
| Massage-Related Courses | Eastern Modalities | 30 |
| Other Modalities I & II | 20 | |
| Tai Chi | 15 | |
| MBLEx Readiness | 5 | |
| Total Hours | 700 | |
“The curriculum provided a strong foundation in both massage techniques and professional skills, and I felt well-prepared to begin my career after graduation. You will learn a little bit of everything to determine your main modality.”
Caylin Dollar, NC Massage School graduate
Full-time or part-time
Both schedules provide the same 700-hour education. Choose the pace that works best with your schedule and other commitments.
Full-time program
- Schedule Monday – Thursday
- Class hours 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Length About six months
This accelerated schedule lets students complete the 700-hour massage therapy training program in about six months. Best for students ready to complete training on a faster schedule.
Part-time program
- Semester 1 Monday & Tuesday
- Semester 2 Wednesday & Thursday
- Class hours 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Length About twelve months
This flexible schedule lets students complete the program in about twelve months while balancing work or family commitments.
A note about our part-time program
Our part-time program is designed primarily for students who are unable to attend our full-time schedule due to full-time employment, childcare responsibilities, or other significant obligations. Because of very limited spaces available for each class, we generally reserve those spaces for students who would otherwise be unable to attend the program. Applying for the part-time program does not guarantee immediate acceptance into a part-time seat. Part-time applications are reviewed periodically leading up to the start of each class, with priority given to applicants whose work, childcare, dependent-care, or other significant obligations prevent them from attending the full-time schedule. Applicants who prefer part-time but are able to attend full-time are still welcome to apply and may be offered a part-time space if availability remains.
Whenever possible, we highly encourage students to choose the full-time program. We have found that the more consistent four-day-a-week schedule provides a better learning experience, particularly in a hands-on program like massage therapy. With the part-time schedule, students attend two days per week and then have five days between classes, which can make it more challenging to retain material, maintain hands-on skills, and build consistently from one lesson to the next. For students who have the ability to attend full-time, we strongly recommend it for the continuity, consistency, and overall learning experience.
“Attended NC Massage School for the 6 month program. One of the best decisions I ever made. All staff are exceptional and kind and work with you so that you can succeed.”
Vlad Bandarchyk, NC Massage School graduate
Prepare for massage therapy licensure in North Carolina
NC Massage School is listed by the North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy as a Board-approved massage school in Cornelius. Graduating from an approved program is one step in the process of applying for a North Carolina massage and bodywork therapy license.
Licensure requirements are established by the state and may include educational, examination, application, background-check, and other requirements. Students should review current Board requirements directly before applying for licensure.
Verify NC Board school approval · View NC licensing information
“The program is thoughtfully designed to prepare students not only to pass the MBLEx, but to truly understand the art and science of massage therapy.”
Elizabeth Stiehm, NC Massage School graduate
Where massage therapy training can take you
Graduates may pursue opportunities in a variety of massage therapy, wellness, and bodywork settings.
- Wellness Centers
- Chiropractic Clinics
- Sports & Recovery Settings
- Spas & Resorts
- Private Practice
“Because of the education and training I received, I was able to pursue my passion and build a career helping others improve their health and well-being.”
Tammy Johnson, NC Massage School graduate
Program questions
How long is the NC Massage School diploma program?
The program includes 700 hours of training. Students can complete the program in approximately six months full-time or approximately twelve months part-time.
What is the difference between the full-time and part-time programs?
Both options provide the same 700-hour education. The full-time program follows an accelerated schedule of approximately six months, while the part-time option spreads training over approximately twelve months.
Is NC Massage School approved in North Carolina?
Yes. NC Massage School is listed by the North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy as a Board-approved massage school in Cornelius, North Carolina.
Does completing massage school automatically make me licensed?
No. Graduation from an approved training program is part of the licensing process. Graduates must also satisfy the current examination, application, background check, and other requirements established by the North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy.
How do I apply for the next class?
The next class is scheduled to begin February 8, 2027. You can request information to speak with the admissions team or begin the application process online.
More answers about schedules, tuition, and admissions are in our massage school FAQ.
Ready to explore massage therapy school?
Ask questions, learn more about the program, or begin the application process for our next massage therapy class.
See tuition and financing options or schedule a campus visit.