Associate Degree FAQs

Why would I want an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Massage Therapy?
The Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Massage Therapy sets the new standard of educational excellence in the massage therapy profession. This postgraduate training, now open to graduates of approved 500-Hour programs, signifies that a therapist has gone above and beyond typical massage studies and has embodied depth and excellence. In addition, many massage schools require an AOS or associates degree of their faculty.

Who is eligible to attend the Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Massage Therapy Program?
This program is open to BCMT graduates from 1991 as well as students who qualify for credit for prior learning. [register today]

What courses would I be taking?
The Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Massage Therapy Program has a core curriculum of courses including Medical Massage, Trauma and the Body, and Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy:

Core Curriculum

• Medical Massage – In this course, the study of advanced pathophysiology and critical thinking skills is combined with specific, practical hands-on techniques. Students learn treatment methods specifically geared toward clients with spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, fibromyalgia, and post-surgical conditions.
  
• Trauma and the Body - This course introduces the major concepts of post traumatic stress, and outlines the benefits of massage therapy to survivors of trauma. Students learn techniques that can help restore a sense of balance in the nervous system as well as foster reconnection for survivors who often experience intense physical reactions, memories, and a sense of disconnectedness from their body.
  
• Craniosacral Therapy - Students will learn the fundamental skills that serve as the foundation of craniosacral therapy, including an introduction to the core anatomical and physiological relationships of the Craniosacral system: the fluctuation of cerebrospinal fluid, body articulations, reciprocal tension membranes, dural tube and spinal cord dynamics, and the motillity of the central nervous system.

Can I also complete an advanced certificate or choose a specialization?
Yes. The AOS program allows you to choose a focused track of specialization. Students select 120 hours of weekend electives from the advanced certificate programs including coursework in Canine Massage, Orthopedic and Sports Massage, Spa Elements, and Prenatal, Labor, Postpartum Massage Therapy and Zen Shiatsu. Students who wish to complete an advanced certificate should choose their electives from the certificate program of their choice.

What is the Professional Clinic?
Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Massage Therapy students have the opportunity to offer, and receive compensation for, massage sessions in our Professional Clinic. The Clinic is designed to give students the experience of a private practice, working independently without supervision, and the chance to build a clientele. Students are responsible for generating clients for their clinic sessions. BCMT will book the clients and provide linens and a clinic treatment room. Massage sessions are $50/session. Students are paid monthly @ $30/session.

What is the class schedule?
Students attend classes Monday & Wednesday, from 6 - 9 p.m., for twenty weeks. Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Massage Therapy elective modules are held on weekends (Friday - Sunday).

How long will it take to complete the program?
Students normally complete the core courses and all elective modules in six months. Students should consider when elective modules are offered before choosing an enrollment period. Note: Estimated program length for non-BCMT graduates is nine months.

Is financial aid available?
Federal student aid, VA benefits, and other sources of funding (including 0% in-house financing) for the Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Massage Therapy quarter are available to those who qualify. Students with existing loans may be eligible for in-school deferment status. Eligibility is also considered for the Pell Grant. Contact the Financial Aid Advisor for more information at financialaid@bcmt.org. Note: Non-BCMT graduates may apply for financial aid for their entire nine-month program.