IECC | Programs

Semester 1

Prefix/Num

Program Overview:
The Massage Therapy program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for the field of massage therapy. Through the coursework within this program, students will be prepared to work in the wellness area of professional massage therapy.

Requirements after the student is accepted into the program:
1. Make an appointment to meet with academic advisor.
2. Provide evidence of CPR/First Aid certification.
3. Complete physical exam and required immunization form.
4. Complete a criminal background check request form provided by academic advisor. An unsatisfactory background check will negate program admission or result in dismissal from the program.

Professional Licensure Information
Upon completion of this program of study, students will be eligible to sit for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).

The Massage Therapy Licensing Act stipulates that massage therapy licensure may be refused to a person who has been involved in a criminal offense, such as a felony or misdemeanor. Conviction of a criminal offense does not automatically bar licensure, but Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation will take such conviction into consideration.

This program of study prepares students to seek a professional licensure or certification in the state of Illinois and may not meet minimum requirements for other states. See the Professional Licensure Disclosure at www.iecc.edu/licensuredisclosure.

Suggested additional hours:
To increase student knowledge and skills in Massage Therapy, students may wish to take additional “topics” courses in Massage Therapy:
THM 1298 Topics/Issues in Massage Therapy 0.5-6.0

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This course provides a thorough examination of the following: muscles (their origins, insertions, and actions), bones, nerves, and functions of the body's systems. Class time is divided between lecture and hands-on experience to enable students to integrate the materials fully, including building the muscles on a plastic model. Emphasis is placed on studying and analyzing human structure and the effect on body functions.

Basic theory and techniques of massage therapy are introduced and expanded in this beginning course. Course content includes benefits, indications, contraindications, draping, body mechanics, client interviews, chair massage, equipment and supplies. Massage techniques combine to culminate in a full body massage. CO-REQUISITE: THM 1211 Massage Therapy Anatomy/Physio.

This course is designed to provide the massage therapy student with an overview of anatomy and physiology and to initiate the study of the structure and function of cells and tissues and some systems of the human body. These systems include: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, urinary, reproductive, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory and digestive. Function and structure of these systems as related to therapeutic massage and bodywork is explored. Kinesiology and biomechanics are introduced with the muscular system. Heavy emphasis is placed on the musculoskeletal system, including origin, insertion, action and anatomical landmarks, and other components such as tendons, joints, and ligaments. Identification of anatomical structures is practiced through use of visualization, palpation, and examination. Special focus is placed on peripheral nerves and cranial nerves most relevant to the massage therapist. Effects of massage on the autonomic nervous system and its impact on cardiovascular, lymphatic, and digestive functions will be specifically addressed.

This course is designed to instruct students in essential personal success skills and ethical standards for the massage therapy profession. Course will include study and practice of self-improvement, time management, stress management, interpersonal communication, problem solving/critical thinking, character development, accountability, responsibility, self-esteem, values and ethics.

This course focuses on the nature and causes of diseases which result in functional or physiologic changes in the body. Psychosocial conditions will also be addressed. Signs and symptoms, prognosis and treatment will be discussed with consideration to complementary therapies and indications/ contraindications for massage therapy. PREREQUISITE: THM 1211 Massage Therapy Anatomy/Physio.

This course introduces the massage therapy student to intermediate level therapeutic techniques. Joint movements, body mobilizations, hydrotherapy, Tia-Yoga, prenatal massage, infant massage, sports massage, stretching and exercise are incorporated in theory and hands-on classes. Contemporary massage and bodywork topics include myofascial techniques, trigger point therapy, foot reflexology, and others. Massage therapy for special populations ready the student for their clinical experiences. PREREQUISITE: THM 1210 Massage Therapy I. CO-REQUISITE: THM 1250 Massage Therapy Clinical I.

This course provides an introduction to the major aspects of building and maintaining a successful massage therapy practice. Topics covered include starting a new practice, establishing a bookkeeping system, maintaining client records, and delivering a business plan.

This course is designed with an overview of build the body approach. Emphasizing the unique anatomical structures that work together to generate human movement. Instruction in numerous anatomical, kinesiological, and biomechanical principles that lay the groundwork for understanding the different aspects of posture and the complex analysis of human locomotion. Incorporates instructional design assessment and evaluation methods. PREREQUISITE: THM 1206 Muscular Skeletal Systems and THM 1211 Massage Therapy Anatomy/Physio.

This course is a supervised clinical experience designed to provide training and practical experience in therapeutic massage. Basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques and principles are incorporated. Students must spend 40 hours at on- or off-campus locations experiencing real-life application of massage techniques. In addition, students will complete 20 outreach/community hours. PREREQUISITES: LSC 1211 Massage Therapy Anatomy/Physio, THM 1210 Massage Therapy I. CO-REQUISITE: THM 1215 Massage Therapy II.

Asian bodywork traditions are presented in this course including Acupressure, Shiatsu and acupuncture. Reiki and Cranial-Sacral Therapy are also covered. Nutrition, stress reduction, assessment, treatment planning, and specific conditions addressed by massage therapy complete this course. PREREQUISITE: THM 1215 Massage Therapy II, THM 1250 Massage Therapy Clinical I. CO-REQUISITE: THM 1255 Massage Therapy Clinical II.

This course is a supervised clinical experience designed to provide training and practical experience in therapeutic massage. Students must spend 40 hours at on- or off-campus locations experiencing real-life application of massage techniques. In addition, students will spend eight hours in seminar discussing clinical situations. PREREQUISITES: THM 1215 Massage Therapy II and THM 1250 Massage Therapy Clinical I. CO-REQUISITE: THM 1220 Massage Therapy III.

We recommend that you contact an advisor before enrolling in any degree, certificate, or transfer program to ensure all requirements are met including total hours associated with transfer courses.

This is a General Education or Elective course to be selected and therefore has no schedule link.