How Long Is Massage Therapy School? A Guide to IMAGE's 18-Week Program
If you are thinking about becoming a massage therapist, one of the first questions is how long massage therapy school takes, and whether you can fit it around work and family.
In Florida, the answer depends on the number of hours the state requires and how your school schedules them. At the Institute for Medical Aesthetics & Laser (IMAGE) in North Fort Myers, our Massage Therapy Program covers the full requirement in just 18 weeks through a hybrid format that combines online theory with hands-on training on campus.
How Many Hours of Massage School Does Florida Require?
The Florida Board of Massage Therapy requires 500 or more clock hours at a Board-approved massage school before you can apply for a license by examination. Those hours cover the science of the body, massage theory and techniques, ethics, Florida laws and rules, and supervised hands-on practice.
How Long Is Massage Therapy School in Florida?
Because every program has to meet the same 500-hour minimum, the length of massage school mostly comes down to scheduling. Many massage therapy programs take six months to a year or more, especially part-time programs that meet only a few times per week.
What Affects How Long Massage School Takes
- Weekly hours: The more hours you complete each week, the sooner you reach 500.
- Class format: Hybrid programs let you complete theory online, so less of your week is spent commuting.
- Start dates: Some schools start new classes only a few times a year.
- Attendance: Missed hours need to be completed before you can graduate.
After Graduation: The MBLEx and Your License
Finishing school is only part of the timeline. After graduation, you will take the MBLEx, complete your background screening, and submit your application to the Florida Board of Massage Therapy. Our guide on how to become a licensed massage therapist in Florida explains each step.
Inside IMAGE’s 18-Week Massage Therapy Program
IMAGE’s accelerated hybrid program fits all 500 hours into 18 weeks without cutting the hands-on training you need to feel confident with real clients.
What a Typical Week Looks Like
- About 12 hours of online coursework that you complete from home at your own pace
- In-person classes 4 days per week, with four-hour sessions focused on hands-on practice
- Morning or evening class options, so many students keep working while they train
What You’ll Learn in 500 Hours
Science & Theory
- Anatomy and physiology
- Basic massage theory and history
- Business of massage therapy
- Professional ethics
- HIV/AIDS education
- Infection control and safety practices
- Florida laws and rules for massage therapy
Hands-On Clinical Training
- Massage techniques
- Hot stone massage
- Lymphatic massage
- Athletic and sports massage
- Prenatal and special populations
- Therapeutic procedures
- Reflexology
MBLEx Prep Built Into the Program
Every massage student receives ABMP Exam Coach, with more than 60 study aids, including practice quizzes, worksheets, note-taking forms, and checklists. If you do not pass the MBLEx on your first attempt, you can return for up to 10 hours of remedial tutoring or refresher courses at no additional cost.
Is an 18-Week Massage Program Right for You?
An accelerated program is a great fit if you want to start your new career sooner and can commit to a steady weekly schedule. It moves quickly, so set aside time each week for your online coursework and stay on top of your hands-on hours.
Start Massage School in Fort Myers
Class sizes are limited, and seats fill quickly. Visit our Massage School in Fort Myers page to see program details and request pricing, view upcoming class start dates, or call (239) 402-6678 to schedule a tour. Eligible new students can receive a $1,000 scholarship and choose from 0% interest payment plans.
IMAGE – Institute for Medical Aesthetics & Laser
15201 N Cleveland Ave, Suite 450
North Fort Myers, FL 33903
(239) 402-6678
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