Begin Your Massage Therapy Journey in Van Nuys, California

The Massage Therapy diploma program takes just 9 months to complete (37 weeks total). Our accelerated curriculum prepares you for professional practice quickly while ensuring comprehensive training in therapeutic techniques, anatomy, clinical skills, and business practices. You’ll attend in-person training sessions twice weekly at our North Hollywood campus, supplemented by flexible online theory coursework. The program includes 54 semester credits across 18 core courses. Your education features substantial hands-on practice in our student massage clinic, providing authentic experience with professional equipment and actual clients before graduation.

Not at all! Our program welcomes complete beginners who show passion for wellness and helping others through healing touch. The only requirement is a high school diploma or GED certificate. We provide thorough instruction starting from foundational principles in anatomy, physiology, and basic massage techniques. Our experienced instructors guide you step-by-step, progressively building your skills and professional confidence throughout the curriculum. Many of our most successful graduates entered our program with zero medical or massage background. Whether you’re changing careers or starting fresh, we provide the complete foundation you need for massage therapy success.

Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll receive a Massage Therapy Diploma from SOCHI. You’ll also become eligible to take the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination), the nationally recognized certification exam required for professional licensure in California and most states nationwide. This certification demonstrates your competency to employers and clients and is necessary for legal practice. Your training comprehensively covers all exam content areas including anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, therapeutic benefits and effects, and professional ethics. The combination of your diploma and national certification eligibility provides credentials to confidently begin your professional massage career.

Yes, financial assistance programs are available for students who qualify. We understand that educational investment represents a significant commitment, which is why we offer various financial support options to make your training affordable. Our dedicated financial aid advisors work with you personally to explore all available resources, including federal grants, student loans, and customized payment plans tailored to your individual circumstances. We’ll guide you through application processes and explain your eligibility. Don’t let financial concerns prevent you from pursuing your career goals. Contact our admissions team at (818) 980-8990 to schedule a consultation with a financial aid advisor who can address your specific situation.

Massage therapy graduates enjoy diverse career opportunities across wellness and healthcare industries. Our alumni find rewarding positions in athletic training facilities, chiropractic offices, corporate wellness programs, cruise ships and luxury resorts, day spas and wellness centers, fitness clubs and gyms, healthcare clinics, home health services, hospitals and medical centers, physical therapy practices, rehabilitation facilities, and can launch independent private practices. California massage therapists earn competitive compensation, with average annual salaries ranging from $56,000 to $72,000 according to recent industry data. The massage therapy field continues growing, fueled by increasing wellness awareness, aging population needs, and integration into mainstream healthcare. You can specialize in sports massage, medical massage, spa services, or therapeutic rehabilitation based on your interests.

Hands-on clinical training forms the foundation of our program. You’ll practice extensively in our on-campus Student Massage Clinic (SMC100), working with real clients under the supervision of professional instructors. Throughout your education, you’ll gain direct experience with Swedish massage techniques, deep tissue methods, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, sports massage applications, Eastern modalities including Shiatsu and Thai massage, spa treatment protocols, hot stone therapy, and specialized techniques for diverse client populations. 

You’ll work with professional massage tables, utilize industry-standard equipment, practice appropriate draping procedures, and develop the professional communication skills and client interaction abilities essential for career success. The clinic experience builds your confidence, refines your techniques, and creates a professional portfolio before graduation.