Cost Of Diploma in Massage Therapy

General Pricing Information for Massage Therapy School

Tuition, fees, and payment information can change. Always confirm current costs on our tuition and financing page before applying.

If you’re considering a career in massage therapy, understanding the costs and benefits of your education is a critical first step. While investing in your future is always worthwhile, knowing what to expect will help you make an informed decision. Here’s an in-depth look at the costs of massage therapy school, what’s included in the tuition, and why NC Massage School is an excellent choice for aspiring massage therapists.

NC Massage School’s current tuition for the 700-hour massage therapy diploma program is $9,590.

Massage Therapy Education Requirements in North Carolina

Becoming a licensed massage therapist in North Carolina requires completing a Board-approved massage therapy program and passing the National MBLEx exam. Depending on your schedule, these programs can typically be completed in as little as six months of full-time study or 12 months of part-time study.

At NC Massage School, we exceed state requirements with our 700-hour Massage Diploma Program. This additional training ensures that students are prepared to pass the MBLEx exam and are equipped with advanced knowledge and hands-on experience to thrive in their careers.

cost massage therapy program

What You’ll Learn at NC Massage School

Our 700-Hour Massage Diploma Program offers a well-rounded curriculum that prepares students for every aspect of their massage therapy careers. The program includes:

Science & Muscle Courses
Deep dives into anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, and more to build a strong foundation.
Therapeutic Modalities
Techniques including Swedish massage, clinical neuromuscular therapy, acupressure, hydrotherapy, and structural bodywork.
Practice-Building Courses
Business skills, ethics, and professional development to help you launch and manage your own practice.
Hands-On Training
Clinical neuromuscular and structural bodywork sessions giving you real-world experience to build confidence.

By graduation, students are prepared to pass the MBLEx and ready to start their practices or join established massage therapy teams.

What Affects the Cost of Massage School?

The advertised tuition is only one part of the total cost of becoming a massage therapist. When comparing schools, consider:

The total number of instructional hours.
Books and technology fees.
Required massage equipment and supplies.
Application and enrollment fees.
Whether clinical training is included.
Whether MBLEx preparation is included.
Transportation and schedule-related expenses.
Financing charges and APR.
Examination and state-licensing expenses.
Whether the program qualifies graduates to pursue licensure in the state where they plan to work.

A lower advertised tuition does not always mean a lower total cost. Ask every school for a complete written estimate.

Total-Cost Education Overview

Below is an itemized estimation of typical education and licensing expenses to assist your financial planning.

Cost Category Current Amount
Tuition $9,590.00
Application Fee $25.00
Books & Materials $650.00
Technology Fee $180.00
Massage Table Optional / Student Choice (approx. $200–$400)
Linens, Attire & Supplies Estimated $100.00 – $250.00
MBLEx Exam Fee $265.00 (Paid directly to FSMTB; see official MBLEx FAQ)
NC Licensing & Background Check $186.25 ($150.00 License + $36.25 Background check; verify with NC Board)
Estimated Total Education Cost Approximately $10,800.00 – $11,100.00

Tuition Costs for the Massage Diploma Program

The 700-Hour Massage Diploma Program at NC Massage School is priced at $9,590, making it an affordable investment for your future career.

To make the program accessible to many students, we offer several financing options for different budgets and financial needs.

With manageable payment plans, you can focus on your education and career goals without the burden of upfront costs. Our team can help you navigate the financing process and find a plan that works for you.

best massage therapy school

Continuing Education Options

NC Massage School also offers continuing education programs for licensed massage therapists who need to maintain their certifications. These courses range in price based on the number of hours, topic, and instructor:

Short Courses
Starting around $100 for focused topics.
Extended Courses
Up to $400 or more for in-depth programs.

Our continuing education options cover a variety of advanced techniques and topics, allowing therapists to expand their skills and better serve their clients. Start dates are flexible, ensuring you can fit additional training into your busy schedule.

Additional Costs to Consider

When planning your massage therapy education, it’s important to account for other potential expenses beyond tuition, such as:

Books and Supplies
Depending on the program, textbooks, massage tables, and other materials may be required.
Licensing Fees
After completing your education, you’ll need to pay for the MBLEx exam and state licensing fees.
Transportation & Housing
If you need to commute or relocate for school, factor in these costs as well.

While these additional expenses vary, NC Massage School strives to keep costs transparent and affordable, helping you budget effectively for your education.

massage school supplies

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Massage School

Before enrolling in any massage therapy program, make sure you get clear answers to these essential questions:

Is the school approved by the appropriate state regulatory board?
How many total hours does the program provide?
How much hands-on and supervised clinical training is included?
Are books, supplies, and technology included in tuition?
What must be paid before the first day of class?
Are financing charges included in the advertised price?
What happens financially if I withdraw?
Is MBLEx preparation included?
What are the attendance and makeup-hour policies?
Are graduates supported with licensing and career-readiness information?

Costs to Plan for After Graduation

Graduates should also budget for expenses associated with entering and maintaining the profession. These may include:

MBLEx registration.
State application and background-check costs.
Local business registration, when applicable.
Professional liability insurance.
Professional supplies and equipment.
Workspace or rental expenses.
Continuing education.
License renewal.

Requirements and fees can change. Verify all licensing expenses with the state where you plan to practice.

Why Choose NC Massage School?

Choosing the right massage therapy school is more than cost—it’s about the quality of education and support you’ll receive. At NC Massage School, we offer:

Experienced Instructors
Learn from passionate professionals dedicated to your success.
Flexible Schedules
Full-time and part-time options to fit your needs.
Comprehensive Training
A curriculum designed to prepare you for every aspect of your career.
Supportive Community
Small class sizes and a welcoming campus environment where you’ll thrive.

With a focus on hands-on training and advanced techniques, our program ensures you graduate confident and career-ready.

What Does Massage School Cost Today?

While tuition varies by program and location, NC Massage School’s 700-hour diploma program costs $9,590. Students can explore flexible payment plans and financing options to make the cost of starting massage school more manageable.

Need Help Understanding the Total Cost?

Tell us which schedule and payment option you are considering. Our admissions team can explain the current tuition, upfront costs, and available payment options.

Your Career in Massage Therapy Starts Here

Massage therapy is more than just a career; it’s a chance to help others while building a fulfilling, flexible profession. At NC Massage School, we’re committed to helping you achieve your goals with affordable tuition, exceptional training, and continued support.

If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to our team or request a catalog to learn more about tuition, financing, and what sets NC Massage School apart.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massage School Cost

Here are answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask about tuition, program costs, financing, and what to expect from massage therapy school in North Carolina.

How much does massage therapy school cost at NC Massage School?
NC Massage School’s current tuition for the 700-hour massage therapy diploma program is $9,590. Students can also review payment plans and financing options to better understand the total cost and how to budget for enrollment.
Does tuition include hands-on training?
Yes. NC Massage School’s diploma program includes hands-on training, clinical experience, and coursework designed to help students build practical skills and confidence before graduation.
Are payment plans available for massage school?
Yes. NC Massage School offers multiple payment and financing options to help make enrollment more manageable for students with different budgets and financial situations.
What other costs should I plan for besides tuition?
In addition to tuition, students may want to budget for books, supplies, exam fees, licensing fees, transportation, and other personal expenses, depending on their situation.
How long does it take to complete massage therapy school?
Depending on the schedule you choose, massage therapy school can often be completed in as little as six months full-time or around 12 months part-time. This flexibility helps students balance training with work or family responsibilities.
Will this program help prepare me for massage therapy licensing?
Yes. NC Massage School’s 700-hour diploma program is designed to prepare students for licensure, providing the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to pursue a massage therapy career in North Carolina.
Is massage therapy school worth the cost?
For many students, massage therapy school is a worthwhile investment because it leads to a hands-on, people-focused career with flexible opportunities. The value comes from both the training itself and the career path it opens up after graduation.

Kristy Serdinsky, Owner, and Director of Education at NC Massage School. With a background in teaching and administration in charter and private schools, Kristy’s dedication to helping others led her to open a massage spa in Cornelius in 2015. Now, she brings her expertise in education and the massage and bodywork industry to NC Massage School, blending her two passions to create a transformative learning experience.

NC Massage School

Hands-on massage therapy training in Cornelius, NC, near Charlotte and Lake Norman.

700-Hour Diploma Program
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NC Massage School
20525 North Main Street
Cornelius, NC 28031

Serving Charlotte, Lake Norman, Huntersville, Davidson, and Mooresville.

Phone: (704) 896-2636
Email: admin@NCmassageSchool.com

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