Choosing a massage therapy training program is often about more than learning hands-on techniques. Students also need a clear understanding of what the program
teaches, how clinical experience works, and what steps may be required after graduation depending on where they plan to practice. This overview explains the
structure and focus of the Massage Therapist program at Western School of Health and Business Careers in Pittsburgh and highlights key considerations for future
students.
Program overview
The Massage Therapist program at Western School of Health and Business Careers, Pittsburgh (WSHBC) provides students with instruction in both practical and
theoretical massage, anatomy, physiology, pathology, ethics, clinical practice, and hygiene. The program offers training in therapeutic massage principles,
hydrotherapy and allied therapeutic modalities, including massage techniques, the external application of water, heat, cold, topical preparations, and mechanical
devices.
The core curriculum is structured to include a lecture component and a clinical component. The final externship portion of the curriculum consists of supervised
experiences in a clinical environment, which requires competencies, logs, and evaluations completed by the student. At the conclusion of the program, graduates
who have diligently attended class and their externship, studied, and practiced their skills should have the skills to seek entry-level employment as massage
therapists.
What you study during massage therapy training
Massage therapy education is designed to build both technical skills and professional judgment. Students typically develop their abilities step by step, starting
with foundational knowledge and moving into applied practice in clinical settings. In a structured program like this, learning usually includes both classroom
instruction and guided hands-on work.
Key subject areas commonly covered
- Anatomy and physiology to understand the body systems and how they relate to massage work
- Pathology basics to recognize conditions that may affect client safety or treatment planning
- Massage theory and therapeutic principles, including client goals and technique selection
- Ethics and professionalism, including boundaries, communication, and client confidentiality
- Hygiene and safe practice standards used in clinical environments
- Hydrotherapy and allied modalities, including external applications such as heat, cold, and topical preparations
Lecture, clinical training, and externship: how the program is structured
Many students ask what the learning format looks like in real life. In general, a lecture component supports the science and theory behind massage therapy,
while clinical training supports skill development, confidence, and professionalism with supervised practice.
Lecture component
Classroom sessions typically focus on building a foundation. This includes anatomy, physiology, terminology, ethics, and other topics that help students make
informed decisions when working with different client needs.
Clinical component
Clinical training is where students apply technique in a supervised setting and learn how to manage real-world considerations such as intake, communication,
hygiene, and professional conduct. Clinical experiences also help students learn pacing, body mechanics, and client comfort strategies.
Externship component
The final externship portion of the curriculum consists of supervised experiences in a clinical environment. Students may be required to complete competencies,
logs, and evaluations as part of the externship process. This phase is often where students transition from practicing skills to demonstrating consistent readiness
for entry-level work.
How the program supports career readiness
Entry-level massage therapy roles require more than technical skill. Employers and clients typically expect reliability, clear communication, ethical behavior,
and a professional approach. The combination of theoretical instruction and supervised clinical experiences is intended to prepare students for the workplace
by helping them build routine, confidence, and consistency.
By the end of training, students who attend consistently, practice deliberately, and complete clinical requirements are generally in a stronger position to
pursue entry-level opportunities and continue building skills after graduation.
Certification: what students should know
Graduates of the Massage Therapist program are encouraged to take the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) certification exam.
This credential is a nationally recognized voluntary certification that could enhance employment opportunities or income potential, and may be required to practice
in a particular state.
Certification requirements for taking and passing this examination are not controlled by WSHBC but by outside agencies and are subject to change without notice.
WSHBC cannot guarantee that graduates will be eligible to take this certification exam, or any other certification exam, at all or at any specific time,
regardless of their eligibility status upon enrollment.
State licensure and registration: Pennsylvania and beyond
The state of Pennsylvania does not currently require massage therapists to be licensed in order to practice in the state. However, passage of the NCBTMB
certification exam and or state licensure or registration may be required to practice in other states.
WSHBC does not control state licensure or registration in Pennsylvania or in any other state, and cannot guarantee that graduates of the Massage Therapist program
will be eligible to work as massage therapists in Pennsylvania or any other state, at all or at any specific time, regardless of their eligibility status upon
enrollment.
Is massage therapy training the right fit for you?
Massage therapy can be a good fit for students who enjoy working directly with people, learning hands-on skills, and developing a strong understanding of how the
body moves and responds to care. It also helps to be comfortable with a fast-paced learning environment, consistent practice, and a professional approach to
communication and boundaries.
Questions to ask yourself before enrolling
- Do I enjoy learning through hands-on practice as well as classroom instruction?
- Am I comfortable communicating with clients in a calm, professional way?
- Can I commit to consistent attendance, practice time, and clinical requirements?
- Do I understand the certification and licensure expectations for the state where I want to work?
Next steps
Massage Therapist Program – Is It Right for You? Click massage therapist training in Pittsburgh to find out if you’re a candidate for acceptance into the program.
If you would like to learn more, click Massage Therapist Program (Pittsburgh) to have an admissions representative contact you about getting started.