

“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 – 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.
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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- 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 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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- 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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- 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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- 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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- 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.
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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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- 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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- This component will introduce the student to pharmacology: the effects of drugs and their mechanism of action on living beings. This allows students to gain perspective on how the drugs interact with the many systems of the body. Students also focus on what impact massage therapy can have on both the client and medication.
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- The study of movement is introduced to aid in the understanding of joints, range of motion and muscle activity. Goniometry and anthropometry tapes are used to measure changes in motion and structural imbalance.
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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 the Basic program. 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.
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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 the Basic program. 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.
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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 the Basic program. 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.
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- Going beyond basic Swedish massage techniques is expected of the advanced student and graduate. Largely a practical class with demonstration and practice of a great variety of complex techniques.
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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.
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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 Massage Therapist registered in the province of Alberta.
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- Numerous outreaches are arranged and students select those that fit both their interest and schedule. A wide range of opportunities is provided to expose students to as many practical situations as possible.
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- Early in the program, 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.