Massage Therapy classes will return to South Piedmont Community College this fall through the School of Health and Public Safety. Dr. Tim Reischman will revitalize the program he began 20 years ago to meet the labor market needs.
The program returns to campus after reevaluating the needs of students and making changes to the curriculum that allow for comprehensive programming geared toward earning a license in a shorter time frame. According to Carl Bishop, vice president of academic affairs, SPCC is continually looking for new ways to tailor curriculum to meet the needs of students in ways that will allow them to gain the tools they need for good paying jobs and careers
As the massage therapy instructor, Reischman will be looking to partner with local businesses around the community to involve students in real-world learning. Graduates are in demand for employment at local spas, chiropractic practices, fitness centers, and hospitals.
“After base pay, bonus options, and tips, our massage therapists right out of school start averaging between $30-$40 per hour session,” said Justin Smith, school liaison for NC Massage Envy Spa. “They can make $35,000 a year easily in our clinics.”
The full-time program consists of 660 hours of instruction over two semesters and includes techniques in Swedish and deep tissue massage.
“My philosophy is approach and never attack,” explained Reischman. “Students should use only the pressure that is needed.”
Through this approach, students will earn two certificates after completing the fall and spring semester courses. They will then be eligible to take the MBLEx test and, with a passing score, obtain licensing through the state of North Carolina.
Classes begin on the Old Charlotte Highway campus in Monroe this August. To register or learn more information visit https://spcc.edu/therapeutic-massage/.
Written by Misty McMillan