A Guide to Our 700-Hour Diploma
Massage therapy is more than a career—it’s a calling. At NC Massage School, our 700-hour diploma program is thoughtfully designed to take you from curious beginner to confident, licensed professional. With a blend of advanced techniques, clinical knowledge, and compassionate instruction, our program equips you with the tools to help others feel better while building a meaningful future for yourself.
Whether you’re just starting or looking for a career change, here’s what you can expect to learn—and love—about our all-embracing program.
Building a Strong, Hands-On Foundation in Massage Therapy
Before you can change lives, you need to master the fundamentals. Our program starts with the therapeutic building blocks of massage—proper body mechanics, core techniques, client interaction, and session flow.
You’ll learn how to approach the body holistically, adapt to different client needs, and use your hands to massage, communicate, and heal.
The Science Behind the Art of Touch
Great massage therapists don’t just feel their way—they understand the why. With over 100 hours devoted to anatomy, physiology, and neuromuscular systems, you’ll give yourself a new level of understanding of the structure and function of the human body.
This knowledge allows you to be more than a technician—you’ll be a thoughtful practitioner supporting the body’s natural healing ability.
Mastering Clinical Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)
Our program’s core is Clinical Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)—a powerful, science-based approach to addressing chronic pain, soft tissue dysfunction, and postural imbalances. This advanced training gives our students a clinical edge, equipping them with the tools and techniques to make a meaningful impact in their clients’ lives.
Through focused instruction and hands-on practice, you’ll learn how to:
- Evaluate and identify muscular imbalances and trigger points
- Understand the relationship between posture, pain, and movement patterns
- Apply precise techniques to release chronic tension and improve function
- Create customized treatment plans for clients with complex needs
- Build confidence in working with medical referrals and clinical conditions
Kinesiology, Pathology & Clinical Decision-Making
Massage is part intuition, part investigation. Our kinesiology and pathology courses teach you to think critically—reading the body, identifying patterns, and modifying your sessions based on real knowledge of how dysfunction arises.
This is where your role shifts from massage provider to wellness partner.
Techniques, Traditions, and Touch Modalities from Around the World
Our students train in various hands-on techniques, from Swedish and deep tissue to Eastern modalities and Tai Chi-inspired movement.
You’ll gain exposure to multiple philosophies and practices, so that when you graduate, you’ll have the flexibility to serve a distinct range of clients and preferences.
Learning by Doing
While classroom knowledge lays the foundation, real-world experience brings everything to life. At NC Massage School, you’ll take what you’ve learned and apply it in our on-campus student clinic, working with actual clients under the guidance of experienced instructors. This hands-on setting is where skill turns into confidence and study becomes second nature.
During your clinical internship, you will:
- Perform massage sessions with real clients from the community
- Receive direct feedback and mentorship from licensed professionals
- Refine your technique, pacing, and client communication skills
- Learn how to manage sessions in a professional environment
- Build the experience and confidence needed for post-graduation success
Training in Ethics, Psychology, and Professional Practice
Being an excellent massage therapist isn’t just about the work you do on the table—it’s also about the relationships you build and the professionalism you embody.
Our curriculum includes courses in ethics, North Carolina state laws, communication, and business development. We prepare you to be a well-rounded, respected professional in whatever path you pursue.
MBLEx Preparation That Builds Confidence, Not Stress
We know exams can be intimidating, but we’ve got your back. Our MBLEx prep course is designed to review key topics, offer test-taking strategies, and help you walk into your licensing exam feeling fully prepared and supported.
These credentials tell future employers and clients that you didn’t just take any program. You invested in your education, and you’re serious about your career.
You won’t just walk away with a diploma when you complete our program. You’ll graduate with:
- A Diploma in Massage Therapy
- A Certification in Clinical Neuromuscular and Structural Bodywork
Where Your Passion Becomes Your Purpose
Every student who walks through our doors has a story. Maybe you’re here for a career change. Perhaps you’ve always been drawn to healing work. Maybe you’re looking for something more fulfilling. Whatever your path, we’re honored to help you take the next step.
At NC Massage School, we don’t just teach massage. We nurture your growth, help you build confidence, and guide you toward a life and career that truly aligns with who you are.
Our Next Class Begins June 16, 2025
Take the first step toward a more fulfilling future.
Call us today at 704.896.2636
Or download our school catalog for more information.
Ready to go? Apply now and secure your spot in our next class
