Below are a list of Frequently asked questions about the Western North Carolina School of Massage, our program and the massage profession.  

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About the Program

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What massage therapy programs do you offer?

We offer a 700-hour Massage Therapy Diploma Program, which prepares students for licensure in North Carolina as well as most other states in the U.S.
We also provide a variety of advanced training workshops and continuing education courses for licensed therapists.

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What is the class schedule like?

We offer three schedules designed to meet different availability and learning preferences:

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Full-Time Day Program
• Monday & Wednesday: 9:00 am – 2:30 pm
• Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
• Offered three times per year
• Takes 7.5 months to complete

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Part-Time Day Program
• First 30 weeks: Monday & Wednesday
• Second 31 weeks: Tuesday & Thursday
• Offered three times per year
• Takes 15 months to complete

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Part-Time Evening Program
• Tuesdays & Thursdays: 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm
• Includes 100 hours of Clinicals*
• Offered once per year (see schedule for details)
• Takes 13 months to complete

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How long does the program take to complete?

Depending on the schedule selected, students complete the program in 7–15 months.

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What is the cost of the massage therapy program?

Tuition for the 700-Hour Massage Therapy Diploma Program is $7,995.
This does not include textbooks, massage equipment, or required supplies.

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Do you offer financial aid or payment plans?

While we do not accept federal financial aid, we offer monthly payment plans, with options starting as low as $295/month, and can provide information on outside funding resources.

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What is the class size?

At WNCSOM, we strive to keep class sized small.  Our maximum capacity is 22 students, though hands-on Bodywork classes are capped at 16 students per instructor to ensure individualized attention.

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What prerequisites are required to enroll?

Students must:
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Complete an admissions interview and campus tour

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Admissions & Enrollment

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How do I apply?

You can apply online with no application fee Here.
After submitting your application, you may schedule a tour and advisor meeting to complete the admissions process.

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When should I apply?

We strongly recommend applying 3–6 months in advance, as programs often fill before the start date. Application deadlines vary by schedule.

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Can I transfer hours from another school?

In some cases, yes. Transfer hours are evaluated case by case based on curriculum alignment and NC Board regulations.

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Curriculum & Training

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What will I learn in the program?

The curriculum includes:
• Foundational massage therapy theory and techniques
• Anatomy & physiology
• Pathology
• Kinesiology
• Somatic psychology
• Introductory subtle bodywork therapies
• Business, marketing, and ethics components

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How much hands-on training is included?

The program is a blend of theory and practice.  Each class has both academic and practical components, with the hands-on portions accounting for about 1/3rd of the total instructional  hours.  Students also participate in  100 hours of supervised hands-on practice in our on-site student massage clinic to ensure skill, confidence, and readiness for professional work.

 

What massage modalities are taught?

Core modalities include:
• Therapeutic Massage (based on classical Swedish techniques)
• Deep Tissue
• Neuromuscular Therapy
• Myofascial Release
• Abhyanga
• Acupressure
• Seated Massage
• Introductions to Manual Lymphatic Drainage
• Craniosacral Therapy
• Hydrotherapy & spa protocols
…and more

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Licensing & Career

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Will this program prepare me for licensure?

Yes. WNCSOM is approved by the North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy and prepares students for both the MBLEx and the state licensure process.  Requirements vary from state to state, but WNCSOM provides education which you can apply towards licensure in most states.  See the Massage Therapy State Licensure guide HERE for more details.

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Is the WNC School of Massage accredited?

In North Carolina, massage therapy programs are regulated by the NC Board of Massage and Bodywork Therapy, which supersedes the need for third-party accreditation through the U.S. Department of Education. WNCSOM is an NC Board–approved school, and our graduates are eligible to sit for the MBLEx exam and apply for licensure in 44 states.

Schools that choose to participate in Title IV federal financial aid programs use the designation “accredited.” in NC.   Because we do not participate in federal loan programs, we are able to keep tuition more affordable and accessible, maintain small class sizes, and uphold high curriculum standards without the added costs associated with federal loan compliance.

In addition to our NC Board approval, WNCSOM is also:
• An NCBTMB Assigned School (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork)
• A school member of the AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association)
• A member of the Alliance for Massage Therapy Education​

• An NCBTMB Approved Provider of Continuing Education, through its partner, the Mind Body Connection.

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What is the job outlook for massage therapists?

Massage therapy is a growing profession with increasing demand in spas, clinics, wellness centers, and healthcare environments. With projected growth much faster than average (around 15-20%) through 2030, Massage therapy offers a reliable career path.  Many graduates choose self-employment for flexibility and higher earning potential.

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Where do graduates typically work?

Graduates commonly work in:
• Spas & wellness centers​

• Chiropractic and medical offices
• Integrative health clinics
• Fitness centers
• Resorts
• Private practice (self-employment)

 

Does the school help with job placement?

While employment cannot be guaranteed, we offer:
• Résumé and interview support
• Employer networking
• Industry partnerships
Many local employers actively recruit our students before graduation.

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School Policies & Support

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Do you offer make-up options if I miss a class?

Yes. Structured make-up options are available and comply with NC Board requirements. Details are outlined in the Student Handbook.

 

What student support services are available?

Students have access to:
• Academic support and tutoring
• Instructor mentorship
• MBLEx preparation resources
• Professional development guidance

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Is parking available?

Yes. Free street parking is available on Haywood Rd and surrounding residential strees (first come, first served). Additionally, two nearby paid lots offer monthly parking starting at about $35/month.

 

Is the facility accessible?

Yes. Our facility is ADA accessible via the back entrance. Please let us know if you need accommodations.

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About the Profession

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Do I need to be physically strong to be a massage therapist?

Strength is less important than proper body mechanics, which we emphasize heavily. With correct technique, people of all body types can practice massage safely and effectively.

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Is massage therapy a good career for people changing professions?

Absolutely. Many therapists enter the field as a second career, drawn by meaningful, people-centered work and the ability to help others in a tangible way.

 

How much do massage therapists typically earn?

Earnings vary by location, work setting, and schedule.
In Asheville and surrounding areas:
• Typical starting pay is $35–$45 per massage hour plus tips for W-2 positions
• Self-employed therapists often charge around $100 per hour, offering higher long-term earning potential. 

The median average salary for a full-time (25-30 massage hours per week) Licensed Massage & Bodywork Therapist in NC is $65,000/year.