If you’re considering a career change, massage therapy might be a great option, but how do you know which massage therapy school is right for you?

As the demand for people in the health and wellness industries continues to grow, flexible education options, including online and hybrid courses, are becoming more accessible and can fit around your schedule. Below, we will look at why you may be interested in an online massage therapy school and the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision.

Online massage therapy certification programs offer a range of benefits, but they also come with some downsides. 

Let's explore the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide if an online massage therapy school fits you.

The Benefits of Online Learning

Online courses for massage therapy programs come with several advantages that cater to diverse student needs. These include:

• Flexibility: One of the key benefits of an online massage therapy school is its flexibility. You can work around your other commitments or work while still learning massage therapy at home.
• Accessibility: Online massage therapy courses can also help students who may live in more remote areas or have difficulty attending in person on campus. 

Cost-Effectiveness: Student loan debt is a well-known issue, so the option to do your massage training online can be more affordable. Many online programs are more affordable than on-campus or in person options.

The Downsides of Remote Learning

There are plenty of benefits to learning online, but it’s wise to consider the potential drawbacks as well, including: 

• Lack of Hands-On Experience: Massage therapy involves practical skills that require hands-on experience. Online massage therapy courses cannot offer the same level of practical training as traditional, on-campus courses.
• Limited Networking Opportunities: Building connections with instructors and peers can be a key to feeling connected to the course and materials. It can also make it much easier to approach instructors with questions or concerns. Online courses for massage therapy can make it difficult to create those connections and reduce networking opportunities that can impact your professional network after you graduate. 
• Self-Motivation Required: Online learning demands a high level of self-discipline and motivation. This format may pose challenges if you need help staying focused and organized.
  

Consider Hybrid Classes for Massage Therapy

Hybrid programs offer the best of both worlds when it comes to online massage therapy certification, allowing you to get crucial hands-on training while offering more flexibility, accessibility, and cost savings of online schooling. 

A hybrid program that pairs in-person courses with online massage therapy classes focused more on theoretical or book-based information is used.

Are Online Massage Therapy Schools Accredited?

Accreditation is a crucial consideration when choosing an online school, whether it’s for massage therapy or any other degree. This is even more true when considering a career in health and wellness. Accreditation guarantees you will be given training that meets certain standards of care, quality of information, and legitimate certifications. However, it is necessary to note there are many types of ‘accreditation’ depending on your state and area of study. You must look into the accreditation of a school you are considering to see where that accreditation comes from.

For example, KCMI (Kansas City Massage Institute) is accredited by the state of Missouri but may not be applicable in other states. Understanding the accreditation of the schools you are looking at and what types of certifications they offer students can ensure that you receive a quality education that can translate to real-world employment after graduation.

Looking for a Hybrid School in Kansas City, MO? Contact KCMI Today!

When It comes to quality of education and flexibility, it’s easy to see how a hybrid program can be a great way to combine flexibility with in-person classes for massage therapy and advance your career. If you are in or around the Kansas City area, the hybrid options and Missouri accreditation offered by the Kansas City Massage Institute (KCMI) are here to help. Contact us to discuss our options to find the best fit for your educational journey.