“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 stands out among massage therapy schools for our dedication to our students' success. CDI College's Massage Therapy diploma program prepares students to become valued, well-paid members of the healthcare industry in private clinics, medical and rehabilitation centers, hospitals, spas, fitness facilities, or as self-employed massage therapists.
This diploma program teaches fundamental massage skills such as hydrotherapy, palpation, remedial exercise, and patient assessment. Students learn different types of massage treatments, along with medical topics including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology. Students will learn about professional topics such as industry ethics and professional communications.
A mandatory practicum, under the supervision of a registered massage therapist, gives students the chance to put their education to use in a real-world setting. Graduates are encouraged to become certified with the Alberta Association of Massage Therapists and Holistic Practitioners.
This program is 48 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
Massage Therapy
Program Courses
The program outline below is for Alberta .
| Code | Course Name | Hours |
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- This course provides an in-depth study of human anatomy from the cell through to the organism. It includes extensive coverage of all aspects of growth and repair in addition to recognizing surface anatomy as it relates to the structures underneath.
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- Using your hands to know the human frame by touch is the basis of this course. Bones, muscles and organs can all be assessed by touching and recording temperature, texture, tenderness and tone.
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- Students will have the opportunity to review and discuss the final practicum placement. Simulated practice may be given in panel interviews as well as practice scenarios for the job interview. Students will update their resumes and cover letters. Students will have use of a Job Search lab which has unlimited Internet access, a job search resource library and a fax machine and phone for contacting prospective employers.
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- Towards the end of the program, students will apply their acquired skills in the school clinic weekly. Initially students bring friends or family and progress to treating the general public while being supervised by a Massage Therapist registered in the province of Alberta. Students perform assessments and treatments with guidance available at all times.
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- Once an understanding of the human body’s normal function is established, students begin to assess for differences through special orthopaedic tests which enable them to develop a clinical impression of a condition.
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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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- Students learn the code of ethics that guides the profession. The standards of practice are complied with from the onset of studies and students apply these principles to all aspects of the program.
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- This program has ten hours dedicated to final comprehensive examinations.
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- Hydrotherapy is the therapeutic use of water in any of its forms. Practical application and written theory on a variety of treatments are included in this course.
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- This course provides an overview to the field of massage therapy focusing on some basic massage techniques, ethics, hydrotherapy and remedial exercise. It is intended to provide students with a clear understanding of where their studies will take them in this program and what is involved in the preparation to become a licensed or registered therapist.
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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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- This course gives the student a foundation of Swedish massage techniques. Theory of the principles of massage are introduced. Largely a practical class where each student integrates their growing knowledge of human anatomy with hands-on skills.
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- The focus of this course is the study of disease and anatomical abnormalities, and how the body responds and adapts to injury.
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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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- An introduction to functions in the body starting with basic chemistry and biochemistry. Building upon this base from cellular level to the level of the organism.
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- This course is designed to equip students with interpersonal skills identified by employers as essential for success in the professional world. Using a variety of instructional methods including case studies, group exercises and discussion, students learn and practice key communication skills.
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- The basis of understanding what exercises are needed to rehabilitate and/or prevent injuries. Theory and practical testing prepare students to deliver fitness advice.
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- This course will introduce students to skills and concepts that will help them achieve personal, academic, and career success.
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- More common conditions are addressed in the first year so students are prepared to deal with what is seen most often in a clinic. All components of a relaxation massage are completed as well.