Anatomy 1: Medical Terminology and the Muscular and Skeletal Systems - 80 hours
Medical terminology, the appendicular and axial divisions of the skeletal system, bony landmarks, and the body's muscular system will be explored. This class integrates lecture with palpation lab and must be taken concurrently with Kinesiology.
Prerequisite: none. Concurrent: Massage and Bodywork 1, Kinesiology.

Anatomy 2: Anatomy & Physiology of the Human Body - 40 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: none. Concurrent: Anatomy 1, Massage and Bodywork 1, Kinesiology.

Kinesiology: Movement and Biomechanics - 30 hours
Study of human movement and evaluation of human activities through the combination of applied anatomy, physiology and mechanical considerations. The course will introduce students to biomechanical principles, mechanical considerations of injury to major joints, and analysis of activities of daily living (e.g., lifting, carrying objects, sitting, rising, walking, etc.).
Concurrent: Anatomy 1.

Pathology for Bodywork - 40 hours
The study of disease processes, causes, development, and consequences from a bodyworker's perspective; discussion of traditional and alternative therapies.
Prerequisite: Anatomy 1, Anatomy 2, Kinesiology.

MASSAGE & BODYWORK

Massage and Bodywork Modalities 1: Foundations of Therapeutic Massage - 90 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 & 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, and to enter our student teaching clinic.
Prerequisite: none.

Massage and Bodywork Modalities 2: Applications of Therapeutic Massage Techniques - 60 hours
Massage and Bodywork Modalities 2 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: Massage and Bodywork 1, Anatomy 1, Kinesiology.

Massage and Bodywork Modalities 3: 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.

Massage and Bodywork Modalities 4: Eastern Modalities and Healing - 30 hours

• Whole Person Integration. An exploration of integrating awareness of mind-body-spirit within one’s self and while working with others. Discussion and practice will center on how all three aspects interrelate and affect each other. Focus of the course is on creating a deeper understanding of healing one’s self and others.
• Asian Bodywork. An introduction to the theory and practice of Asian bodywork. Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) theory, the Eastern concept of vital life energy (qi, ki, prana), and the main organ systems and their meridians, as well as chakras, will be explored. Students will learn how to apply basic acupressure and chakra balancing techniques and integrate them into their practice.

SKILLS & APPLICATION ASSESSMENT

Skills Application and Assessment 1: Special Conditions & Massage - 10 hours
Discussions and presentations related to various specialty populations and conditions (e.g., HIV+/AIDS, cancer, disabilities, community health clinics, pregnancy, geriatrics, pediatrics, etc.). Students will have an opportunity to learn indications, contraindications, specific concerns and appropriate treatment protocols for each population and condition discussed.
Prerequisite: Massage and Bodywork 1, Anatomy 1.

Skills Application and Assessment 2: Outreach & Community Service - 20 hours
An opportunity to provide massage therapy in settings outside of the student clinic. The objective of our Outreach program is to reach under-served populations, increase students' experience outside of the school setting, and to increase massage awareness by bringing massage to the American 'mainstream'. All outreach events are faculty-supervised events.
Prerequisite: Massage and Bodywork 1 and Chair Massage.

Skills Application and Assessment 3: 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.
Prerequisite: Massage and Bodywork 1.

Skills Application and Assessment 4: National Certification and Preparation for Licensing - 10 hours
Discussion and practical exercises preparing the student to take the National Certification for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork exam. Students will assess their strengths and areas for growth and learn ways to prepare themselves for this extensive exam. The class ends with a comprehensive assessment of the student’s ability to integrate the knowledge from the entire Diploma program. Students will need to demonstrate competency in all areas of study through this comprehensive exam, based on the National Certification Exam, in order to graduate from the program. Students passing this exam can be confident on having mastered the material to prepare them for the field of massage therapy and to take the National Certification Exam.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all other components of the Diploma program.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Self Mastery and Ethics - 30 hours
As important as massage and bodywork skills are, more is needed to ensure long-term success. What you will achieve in your new career is a direct extension of how far your mind reaches. How far you will go depends on your own mindset and core beliefs. To achieve more, you must become more! This class explores topics such as self-assessment, goal setting, our relationship to money and financial success, and ties self mastery to professional ethics concepts such as transference, counter transference, scope of practice, client interaction, sexuality and human relationships, informed consent, and ethical dilemma resolution.
Prerequisite: None.

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: None.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

First Aid and CPR Certification - 0 hours
Students must possess a current Standard First Aid & CPR card at the time of graduation.