Massage Schools in South Carolina
Browse our directory of massage schools in South Carolina, or skip ahead to learn about the state's massage licensing requirements and job outlook.
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You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
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Massage Schools Near Me
Check out the Massage Therapy schools these cities in South Carolina have to offer.
How to Become a Masseuse in South Carolina
- 500 education hours are required to become licensed.
- You must renew your license every 2 years.
- 12 continuing education hours are required to renew your license.
- The average salary for massage therapists in South Carolina is $36,740 ($17.67/hour). This is higher than the national average of $42,820 ($20.59/hour).
- There is a predicted 29% job increase between 2016–2026 for massage therapists. This is higher than the expected national growth of 22%.
With more than 25 million Americans seeking massage services each year, massage colleges in South Carolina are looking to fill their classes with aspiring professionals. Campuses can be found across the state, in both the small towns and the big cities like Columbia and Charleston. South Carolina massage schools offer programs that often take less than one year to complete, and some of the courses may include business, ethics, anatomy and physiology, as well as hands-on training in deep-tissue and sports massage, health and wellness and business practices.
The coastlines of South Carolina are beautiful and make for great getaway weekends to take a break from your studies. Myrtle Beach has golf, amusement parks, shopping and a beautiful beach, and it is just a few hours' drive from most points in the state.
State License Requirements
Required to earn a massage therapy license
In order to get licensed you must complete a massage therapy training program of at least 500 hours at an approved massage or bodywork school. Potential massage therapists learn anatomy, kinesiology, physiology, and develop and understanding of how the structure and function of the tissues being treated affects the total functioning of the patient's body. Once the educational piece is completed, you must pass either the NCETMB or the MBLEx exam to become licensed to practice as a massage therapist in South Carolina. The South Carolina Massage and Bodywork Panel issue licenses.
Education Details
A student's preparation to become a licensed massage therapist includes gaining an understanding of how the structural, physiological and emotional components of the body are affected by massage. Most massage schools in South Carolina also teach the legal, financial and ethical aspects of the profession. Massage students will develop the ability to balance their technical knowledge, clinical massage skills, and awareness of the needs of their clients. Schools teach traditional Swedish massage as well as other body therapies such as sports and medical massage and spa treatments. Some popular massage modalities include acupressure and shiatsu, deep tissue, reflexology and aromatherapy. Deep tissue massage may be used on clients with aching muscles such as professional athletes. Reflexology manipulates points on the feet, ears and hands to stimulate balance and wellness in the body. Massage therapists practicing aromatherapy use essential oils and lotions to relax the body and improve general circulation. Do you believe you might be interested in becoming a licensed massage practitioner in SC?
License Renewal
License renewal period
Continuing education required
The state of South Carolina requires massage therapists to complete a minimum of 500 hours of training through a Board-approved program. After you complete training, you will take a written exam and then apply for licensure which will cost $150. After that, you will need to renew your license every two years, and pay a $175 fee with your application. Additionally, you will be required to take at least 12 hours of continuing education courses between each renewal period. You can learn more by reviewing these FAQ's from the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
South Carolina Massage Therapy Careers
Average yearly salary for massage therapy in South Carolina
Massage therapists in South Carolina earn an annual mean salary of $36,740 on average, depending on location and specialization according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These salary numbers are calculated without adding in tips.
You may dream of working at a spa, resort, in the medical field or on a cruise ship. Some massage therapists open their own businesses and practice in their homes or the homes of their clients. Others are employed in the professional offices of other health care providers, hospitals, rehabilitation centers or medical spas. The massage therapy industry is growing in popularity. The best job opportunities are in large cities or in spa and resort destinations.
Contact the South Carolina State Board of Massage Therapy
- 110 Centerview Drive, Columbia, SC 29210
- Website: Labor License Regulation
- Email: boardInfo@llr.sc.gov
- Call: 803-896-4588
- Fax: 803-896-4484