INTRO - Introduction to Key Concepts and Medical Terminology - 15 hours
Introduction to key concepts surrounding massage therapy, professional development, and human sciences for bodywork. This class is a prerequisite for all other segments of the program. History and benefits of massage, career transitioning concepts, professional conduct, and medical terminology are discussed.
Prerequisite: None.

HSHNT – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Spine, Thorax, Head, and Neck - 35 hours
This is one of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed. This segment focuses on the spine and thorax, head, neck and face.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.

HSSAH – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Upper Extremities - 35 hours
This is the second of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. This segment focuses on the shoulder, upper arm, forearm, and hand. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.

HSPLF – Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Kinesiology – Pelvis and Lower Extremities - 35 hours
This is the third of three segments integrating the study of musculoskeletal anatomy with the study of movement. Bones and bony landmarks, muscle origins, insertions, and actions, biomechanical principles, and mechanical considerations of injury are discussed. This segment focuses on the pelvis, thigh, leg, and foot.
Prerequisite: INTRO. Concurrent: MBFND.

HSPH - Anatomy & Physiology of the Human Body - 45 hours
The study of the structure and function of all the systems of the body. Students will explore the cell, tissues and the organ systems and their role in health maintenance.
Prerequisite: INTRO.

HSPA - Pathology for Bodywork - 45 hours
The study of disease processes, causes, development, and consequences from a bodyworker's perspective; discussion of traditional and alternative therapies.
Prerequisite: HSPH.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

MBFND - Foundations of Therapeutic Massage - 60 hours
In-depth study of the theory and hands-on techniques utilized in Western Therapeutic Massage. This class provides the foundation for the skills utilized throughout the program. Students will learn the science of massage, factors affecting quality of touch, communication and interviewing skills, treatment documentation, draping and positioning the client, use of lubricants and tools, proper body mechanics, client-therapist boundaries, benefits of and contraindications to massage, hydrotherapy, and massage techniques appropriate for a general, wellness massage treatment. By the end of the course, students will be able to perform an hour-long, full-body relaxation massage.
Prerequisite: INTRO.

MBCND - Applications of Therapeutic Massage to Musculoskeletal Conditions - 60 hours
This segment builds on the skills students have gained in their Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage course. Students will integrate their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology and gain insight into common conditions, treatment protocols and interventions appropriate for a massage therapist. Students will learn posture analysis, muscle testing, trigger point theory and techniques, indications and contraindications, muscle specific techniques, and apply them throughout the body while focusing on balancing the body and addressing specific conditions and complaints.
Prerequisites: MBFND, HSHNT, HSPLF, HSSAH.

MBWM - Other Western Modalities - 40 hours
This course consists of several topics intended to educate the student in various bodywork modalities. Topics include:

• Seated Massage. Students will learn to apply massage techniques to a fully clothed, seated client. Development of an efficient and effective chair massage routine will be explored.
• Sports Massage. The role of massage therapy in sporting events and athletes will be explored in this course. Students will learn about pre-event and post-event treatments, indications and contraindications, specific conditions related to sporting events (e.g., thermal conditions, injuries, etc.), and how to apply appropriate techniques.
• Cranial Sacral Therapy. An introduction to the theory and practice of Cranial Sacral Therapy. Discussion will involve the craniosacral system, indications and contraindications, and treatment techniques. Students will learn introductory cranial sacral techniques and how to integrate them into their practice. The New School for Massage is a member of Upledger Institute's Registry of Schools. Upon completion of this class, students may enroll in Upledger's Craniosacral Therapy programs at significantly discounted prices.
• Myofascial Release. An introduction to the theory and practice of myofascial release techniques. Discussion will involve the anatomy and common pathology involving superficial and deep fascia, indications and contraindications and treatment techniques. Students will learn introductory myofascial release techniques and how to integrate them into their practice.

MBEM - Eastern Modalities - 60 hours
An introduction to the theory and hands-on skills associated with various forms of Eastern therapies with the focus on traditional Asian bodywork techniques (Thai-Shiatsu). The course will cover a basic understanding of energy movement in the body, Yin Yang and 5 Element Theory, the classic 14 energy channels of the body (meridians) and acupressure points (tsubos) and how those can be incorporated into other forms of massage therapy. By the end of this course, students will be able to perform an hour-long, full-body Thai-Shiatsu massage.
Prerequisite: INTRO.

MBCLS - Clinic Skills - 20 hours
Discussion and hands-on preparation for entering the student clinic. Topics covered include 10 guidelines, clinic forms, client interaction, and review of documentation. Students will need to demonstrate competency in the areas of client interviewing and communication, ethics, draping, body mechanics, and various techniques prior to entering the student clinic.
Prerequisite: MBFND, PDE.

SMBCL - Student Clinic - 80 hours
Hands-on practice of massage therapy focused on the general public. Students will have the opportunity to integrate all of their skills in providing appropriate therapeutic massage to clients in the student clinic under the supervision of our faculty.
Prerequisite: MBCLS.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

PDE - Professional Ethics - 10 hours
This class covers the nature of professional ethics, practitioner/client relationship, professionalism, scope of practice, client interaction, sexuality and human relationships, informed consent, and ethical dilemma resolution.
Prerequisite: INTRO.

PDC - Competing in the Marketplace - 40 hours
The focus of this class is on marketing, attracting and retaining clients, communication skills, professionalism, and developing a clear plan for a rewarding career as an employee, private practitioner, or business owner. This class also offers practical skills and advice about how to compete in the marketplace.
Prerequisite: INTRO.

PDL - Preparation for Licensing – 10 hours
Discussion and practical exercises preparing the student to take the National Certification for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork exam or the exam established by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards. Students will assess their strengths and areas for growth and learn ways to prepare themselves for these exams.
Prerequisite: INTRO.

PDR - Research Literacy – 10 hours
This class explores the importance of research in massage therapy and guides students to critically evaluate available massage therapy research.
Prerequisite: MBFND.