Harper launches massage therapy certificate

Harper College is launching a new certificate program in massage therapy, a field that's predicted to grow 22 percent - or "much faster" than the average industry - over the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Harper's comprehensive, 34-credit hour program combines a variety of healing modalities that focus on both relaxation and rehabilitative massage. Tuition for the program, which can be completed in less than a year, is approximately a third or half of many other area massage therapy schools.

Classes are small to provide students with individual attention, and Harper's seasoned instructors average 10 to 15 years' experience.

Harper has run a massage therapy program for several years through the college's Continuing Education department, but the switch this fall to a credit program, which has been approved by the Illinois Community College Board, cuts the cost by half and makes students eligible for financial aid.

"Many of our students are looking for something more meaningful, a profession that they can connect with," said program lead Sarah Evans. "The therapeutic aspect really allows you to help people without surgery or drugs."

Evans said many massage therapists can be prone to injury due to the physical nature of the profession, so Harper's curriculum also incorporates the body mechanics and wellness of the therapists themselves.

Harper operates a massage therapy clinic that simulates a real-world working environment, allowing students to practice and perfect their skills on clients beginning just a few months into the program.

"Our students leave extremely confident in their abilities because of their vast experience working with clients in the clinic," Evans said. "And the diverse education means the potential to work in so many different environments. The applications are endless."

For information about the program, or to schedule an appointment for a massage, visit harpercollege.edu.