800-Hour Program

This course is divided in two units. Within each unit, student testing is an ongoing process. A mid-term is given at the end of the first unit and a final exam at the end of the completed course. The first unit will be an introduction to Anatomy and Physiology covering a brief introduction to the systems of the body. It will then continue to cover a thorough understanding of the structure and function of the musculo-skeletal systems. The second unit will cover a more in depth understanding of the systems of the body. Primary focus is on the nervous system and organs systems and how they function individually and in relation to the whole.

Reflexology is based on the theory that all body parts and organs correspond to points on the feet. Proper manipulations and techniques are taught to identify these specific points. Students will be able to perform a one-hour treatment upon completion of this course.

This course provides the student with an understanding of disease, dysfunction. bloodborne pathogens, and conditions of the body that may be encountered in the practice of massage therapy.

Students will understand and learn to apply effectively, the different agents of heat and cold in body treatments. This course includes hands- on experiences designed to expose the students to current techniques and equipment.

Students will learn to identify tension in different layers of tissue and treat them. relieving tension and increasing circulation. The student will learn various techniques using thumbs, elbows, forearms, fingers and knuckles.

This course is designed to give a student the skills necessary for working with an athlete. Students will learn specific massage techniques for pre and post-event massage, rehabilitative care and range of motion. Specific injuries will be explained and identified, and students will learn how to treat those injuries appropriately. While 36 hours will be held on campus. 12 hours will be utilized working on athletes at various public sporting events.

In this course, students will learn creative skills and techniques to perform a professional chair massage. Chair massage is a great marketing strategy to build a practice.

This course provides a defined understanding of the standards and professionalism necessary for massage therapists to properly represent themselves and the massage profession. In class discussion emphasizes ethical conduct and understanding the professional boundaries of massage therapy.

Students will be introduced to other therapeutic modalities in the massage profession through a hands-on approach, so they can further study upon completion of the program to better serve their clientele. Covered is the history of massage and the origins of numerous modalities.

Students will explore the basis of Oriental thinking by looking for the disharmony in the internal and external environment to treat and prevent disease. A hands-on introduction to varies eastern therapies will also be given to help round out the student's overall education.

This course introduces students to the basic skills and theories of acupressure. Students learn about Kyo and Jitsu, Yin and Yang, the meridians of the body, and the 5-element theory. Location and functions of acupressure points are illustrated through class instruction and hands- on practice.

Kinesiology is the study of movement in the human body. This course will explain the origin. insertion, and action of the muscles that move the body. Students will develop skills in locating boney landmarks, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and associated structures, so they can gain the ability to recognize the difference. This provides the student with the ability to understand the relationship and function of muscles to identify areas of dysfunction and pain.

This course will provide practical instruction in CPR and basic first aid. This will develop the skills to stimulate the student's competence and confidence with respect to their client's welfare. This course will result in a two-year New Hampshire Safety Council Certification.

Students will be coordinated with the general public for massage therapy sessions, in which, the student will gain confidence and experience in different massage related circumstances. These hours will be documented in-house.

After attaining massage therapy certification, practicing therapists must continue their education in order to keep their licenses. HANDS offers several continuing education classes taught at our campus, to help you get the credits you need. We bring in knowledgeable and passionate guest educators to talk about their areas of expertise and provide a well-rounded education for continuing education students. With our continuing education courses, we give you the chance to gain skills you need or learn about new techniques with a flexible schedule. These hours are not part of the core curriculum but given to help guide you towards the style of massage that best suits you.

Anatomy & Physiology and Pathology will be offered online, in the future, to students skilled in competencies for success in online education. It requires the student to be comfortable and frequently use computers and the internet. Accomplishing an online course will necessitate good time-management ability. The student must be able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and successfully work under pressure.