“I am extremely happy with both our employee’s work ethic and professionalism. Her work reflects on the kind of program CDI has created in regard to massage therapy. A very good program, indeed!” - Tammy P., Hands On Massage Therapy, Calgary, AB – employer of a CDI College graduate
CDI College's Advanced Massage Therapy diploma program teaches you the advanced skills you need to compete for the best massage therapy jobs. Professional massage therapists specialize in relaxation, wellness and recovery.
A prerequisite for this diploma program requires successful completion of CDI College's Massage Therapy program, or equivalent, with prior learning assessment. The program begins by building on systems anatomy and remedial exercise, pathophysiology, neuroanatomy, and anatomy palpation. Students will also learn about business and law as it pertains to massage therapy, as well as building their knowledge of industry ethics and professional communications.
Students gain hands-on experience through their required practicum placements. Graduates are encouraged to become registered with the Alberta Association of Massage Therapists and Holistic Practitioners and the Massage Therapist Association of Alberta.
Unlike many massage therapy schools, CDI College supports our graduates in finding employment after they have completed their program.
This program is 50 weeks in length.
Job Opportunities
- Private Clinics
- Wellness Centres
- Medical/Rehabilitation Centres
- Sports Medicine Clinics
- Hospitals
- Geriatric Care Settings
- Chiropractic Offices
- Naturopathic Clinics
- Health Spa/Hotels
- Fitness Institutes
- Sports Organizations
- Theatre and Dance Groups
- Tourist Destinations
- Cruise Ships
- Self-Employment
Advanced Massage Therapy
Program Courses
The program outline below is for Alberta .
| Code | Course Name | Hours |
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- Going beyond basic Swedish massage techniques is expected of the second year student and graduate. Largely a practical class with demonstration and practice of a great variety of complex techniques.
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- This is an extension of the Anatomy Palpation I course that accurately applies the broad knowledge of human anatomy. Palpation of everything within our scope of practice is done in this course to prepare students for the CMTO Registration Exams.
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- To succeed in this highly competitive field, students must possess a good understanding of marketing and budget management. A business plan is prepared as part of the course. Laws that apply to the massage therapist are examined along with policies and contracts.
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- Practical experience is gained throughout the second year in the school clinic. Students are responsible for all aspects of case management while under the supervision of a Registered Massage Therapist.
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- This course expands on health histories to develop appropriate assessments of all possible conditions massage therapy treats. Recognition of conditions outside of the scope of practice is also instructed. There is both a theory and practical component to this course.
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- Numerous outreaches are arranged and students select those that fit their interest and schedule. A wide range of opportunities is provided to expose students to as many practical situations as possible, including marathons, triathlons, tournaments, health care settings, wellness initiatives and health fairs as well as pregnancy and prenatal support.
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- This continuation of the first year course places an emphasis on critical decision-making. This will prepare students to handle ethical situations that might be encountered after graduation. Coverage includes an in-depth look at the laws that govern massage therapy and health professionals.
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- This course is designed to better prepare students to succeed at the CMTO Registration Exams. Early in the second year, strengths and weaknesses are determined through a series of Oral Practical Exams. Classes may then include: palpations and techniques; mini-treatments; treatment planning; assessments; remedial exercises or any other identified areas. Exams in December and March provide direction to the program and prepare students for final exams in early June.
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- Students arrange for placement in the setting of their choice. Each campus is associated with a number of clinics that foster student development. Students may make their own arrangements with approval from the Program Coordinator.
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- This program has twenty-five hours dedicated to final comprehensive examinations.
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- Two complex control systems are examined in great detail. The course includes thorough coverage of nerves and nerve conduction, brain functions and reflexes as well as the hormonal influence of the endocrine system.
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- An introduction to the body’s nutrient needs. Topics include vitamins and minerals, as well as diseases related to diet. As a health care worker, Massage Therapists are often asked for advice on weight loss and dietary supplements. This course enables the therapist to advise only and does not certify.
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- A continuation of the exercises used in rehabilitation and prevention of injuries. Both theory and practical testing ensure students can safely assign homecare programs for clients.
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- Each system of the body is studied by structure, function and potential diseases. The sciences merge together for a better understanding of the human conditions faced by the massage therapist today.
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- Each treatment is studied in great detail and practiced on fellow students. Through a variety of references, students decide which techniques are most suited to the different treatments. Emphasis is placed on developing treatment plans with short and long-term goals in mind. Hydrotherapy II involves the practical application of skills learned in first year. It is a component of the Treatment Massage II course, ensuring students can easily incorporate hydrotherapy in each treatment. An advanced understanding of the safe application of cold, heat and contrast temperatures is expected from students.