Evan
Holistic Health Practitioner
Get Your Professional Massage Therapy Certification in 8 Months
This isn't just a career — it's your calling.
San Diego's most established accredited massage college.
ACCET AccreditedCAMTC Approved40+ YearsFinancial Aid AvailableV.A Funding AvailableJob Placement
Accredited, Approved & Trusted
Program at a Glance
Everything You Need to Become Certified
8 months
Program length
630 hrs
Hands-on training
Hybrid
In-person + online
AM · PM
Flexible scheduling
After Graduation
Graduate With a License, a Plan, and a Purpose
Become a licensed Massage Therapist. Help people heal, earn real income, and live a life that finally feels aligned.
- Work in spas, wellness centers, or open your own practice
- Earn professional respect and full state certification
- Join a growing $18B+ wellness industry
- Set your own hours and work how you want
- Help others heal — mind, body, and soul
- Build a stable, heart-led career that fits your life
What you'll learn
Your 8-Month Path to Certification
A hybrid program with in-person hands-on labs and flexible online coursework. Tap any module to see what you'll learn.
Fundamentals of Massage
Master full-body Swedish technique, body mechanics, draping, SOAP charting, safety, and sanitation — the foundation every therapist needs.
Anatomy & Deep Tissue
Deep dive into muscular and skeletal anatomy with 3D models and onsite palpation labs, building toward confident deep tissue work.
Science of Movement
Study kinetic chains, biomechanics, posture, and gait analysis within a massage therapist's scope of practice.
Western Modalities
Learn Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy, Cupping, and introductory sports massage with hands-on post-event practice.
Body Systems & Special Populations
Integrate all major body systems and learn specialized care for older adults, prenatal clients, and those with disabilities or chronic illness.
Eastern Modalities
Explore Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, meridians, acupoints, Thai Massage, and Tui Na to round out your full-spectrum practice.
Career Development
Graduate with a resume, interview skills, online presence, and a clear path — plus MBLEx prep and state certification guidance.
Why ICOHS College
Over 40 Years of Training Massage Therapists in San Diego
ICOHS College is San Diego's oldest accredited massage and holistic health school, trusted by CAMTC and respected for over 40 years. As a nonprofit college, we exist to serve students — not shareholders — which means every decision we make is about your success.
40+
Years training therapists
Small
Class sizes
Student stories
Real Graduates. Real Certifications. Real Careers.
Alicia
Massage Therapist · North Park Massage
Paulo
Massage Therapist · Brazilian Zen Massage
Career Outlook
A Career That Pays — and Keeps Growing
Massage therapy is one of the fastest-growing careers in healthcare. The field is projected to grow 18% from 2023–2033, with roughly 22,000 new openings every year.*
Spas & Wellness Centers
Chiropractic Clinics
Sports & Athletic Therapy
Mobile Massage
Resorts & Cruise Ships
Private Practice
Specialty Niches
Therapeutic Rehab
Afford your future
Multiple Ways to Fund Your Education
Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Out-of-pocket cost for some students can be surprisingly low — or even close to zero.*
$3,000 Institutional Scholarship
Available to qualifying ICOHS College students.
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Grants, work-study, federal loans.
Cal Grant
For eligible California residents.
Veteran & Military Benefits
GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon, MyCAA.
Cash or Zero/Low-Interest Plan
Payment plans to fit your budget.
Career Services
We Don't Just Train You — We Help You Get Hired
Resume help, mock interviews, and direct job leads — from day one through graduation and beyond.
Request Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Want to Know, Answered
How long is massage therapy school in San Diego?
At ICOHS College, the Professional Massage Therapy program takes approximately 8–9 months to complete, covering 630 clock hours of training. Classes are offered in AM, PM, and weekend formats so you can balance school with work or family.
Do you need a massage license in San Diego?
San Diego does not currently require an individual massage license. However, most massage businesses in California only employ therapists certified by the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC). ICOHS College is CAMTC-approved, and we reimburse your $200 CAMTC application fee.
How much do massage therapists make in San Diego?
Massage therapists earn an average of $62,560 per year, with experienced full-time therapists earning $74,970–$95,700. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 18% job growth from 2023 to 2033.
What is the MBLEx, and do I have to take it?
The MBLEx (Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination) is the standardized exam used for massage therapy licensure in 46 of 49 regulated jurisdictions. California currently does not require it, but ICOHS College prepares every student to pass it so you can practice in other states.
What's included in tuition?
Tuition includes a portable massage table, bolster and carrying case, laptop, all course books, your first set of oil and lotion with hip holsters, a cupping set, ICOHS College scrubs, AMBP school membership, your CAMTC live scan, and reimbursement of the $200 CAMTC application fee.
What financial aid is available?
ICOHS College participates in federal financial aid (FAFSA), California's Cal Grant, VA and military benefits, a $3,000 institutional scholarship, and zero- to low-interest payment plans. Some students qualify for out-of-pocket costs close to zero.
Your New Career Starts Here
Talk to an ICOHS College admissions advisor and find out if Professional Massage Therapy is right for you. No pressure, no commitment — just clear answers.
Get Started Today
By submitting, you accept the privacy policy and give your express written consent for ICOHS College to contact you using email, telephone, or text — including automated technology — to any number you provide. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not required to enroll. You may always call us directly at (858) 581-9460.