Swedish Institute

Founded in 1916, the Swedish Institute has the oldest massage therapy program in the country. The idea of using one's hands as a therapeutic agent of change has only recently received attention from the scientific community, but throughout its history the Swedish Institute has endeavored to preserve the integrity of this ancient healing art. Massage therapy is a unique approach to the body, and our program reflects the experience that comes after 90 years of teaching it to people who choose it as a profession.

Our current program leads to an Associate in Occupational Studies degree. The full-time program can be completed in 16 months; a part-time program can be completed in 32 months. Schedule options include morning, afternoon or evening/weekend hours. Students can begin in semesters that start in September, January or April.

A Health Care Profession

Massage therapy is a licensed health care profession in New York State. Our program is registered with and regulated by the New York State Education Department and fulfills its requirements for licensure. Our graduates pass the licensing exam given by the state with a high rate of success.

Massage Therapy - Associate of Occupational Studies

The curriculum at the Swedish Institute provides students with a solid knowledge base in the sciences, while bringing theories to life in hands-on work in classes and clinics. The study of anatomy, physiology and pathology provides the foundation students need as they develop therapeutic massage skills. Students study and practice Swedish massage and gradually integrate advanced modalities such as sports massage and trigger point therapy.

Five-element shiatsu provides an Eastern perspective, emphasizing the flow of Qi, or energy, through the body. Eastern theories expand the concepts of health and give students a broader range of treatment options. Western and Eastern therapies are integrated throughout the program, and students incorporate both approaches into their clinical work. Clinical strategies, assessment, and ethics courses are an important part of students' professional development.

Clinical Experience

The Swedish Institute campus is a place where massage therapy is a much appreciated health care modality. At the school Stress Reduction Clinic and Therapeutic Massage Clinic, students provide sessions for the public under the supervision of experienced faculty.

In addition, students work several hours each semester at various off-site internships, bringing the benefits of massage therapy to diverse communities at senior centers, sporting events, hospitals and hospices.

Moving into the Future

Once they successfully complete the program and become licensed massage therapists, graduates have many career options. Flexibility of hours, responsibilities and income potential appeal to the entrepreneurial spirits of our students.

Our alumni may choose to work in a variety of settings, including the following:

• Private practice
• Corporate wellness programs
• Health clubs
• Spas
• Physical therapy clinics
• Nursing homes
• Hospitals
• Integrative therapy groups
• Chiropractic offices

Our graduates understand and welcome the fact that they will be life-long learners, intrigued as they are by the complexity of the human body and the many modalities of massage therapy. The Swedish Institute offers a variety of classes to advance graduates' techniques and knowledge through its ongoing continuing education program.

Becoming a Student

The massage therapy program at the Swedish Institute has starting dates in September, January and May.

Interested applicants are invited to attend an open house, tour the school, observe a class and take part in a hands-on workshop. Prospective students must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants who have attended an accredited post-secondary institution may be eligible to transfer some prior credits.