(120 clock hours)

This course primarily consists of learning a Swedish massage full-body routine. Additional components include the history of massage; indications and contraindications of massage; the use of oil and creams; client draping; grounding and centering; and proper body mechanic techniques and self-care for the massage therapist. Massage terms, directional terms, and medical terminology will also be covered to facilitate professional communication. The course introduces students to safety and sanitation procedures required for client interactions.

(75 clock hours)

This course provides students with an introduction to the structure and function of the human body using a systems approach. Topics include biochemistry, cellular biology, histology, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system and special senses.

(75 clock hours)

This course offers an introduction to the structure and function of the human body using a systems approach. Additional topics include biochemistry, cellular biology, histology, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, endocrine system, urinary system, as well as male and female reproductive systems.

(120 clock hours)

Kinesiology is the scientific study of muscular activity, anatomy, and the mechanics of the movement of the body and its parts. This course offers an in-depth study of the muscular/skeletal system of the upper body and other associated structures. This information is devoted to enhancing the skills and knowledge base for the massage therapist. Exploring the various actions of a muscle or muscle groups will further develop the skills for bodywork and better meet the needs of the client. The course will provide the opportunity for exploring various injuries or impairments, including the application of therapeutic massage, resulting in improving overall function.

(60 clock hours)

Hydrotherapy is the study of water as a therapeutic agent, used both internally and externally. Thermotherapy (heat) and cryotherapy (cold) will be incorporated into this class to include steam, sauna, whirlpool, hot packs, sinus packs, aromatherapy, body wraps, polishes, etc. This course will cover the indications and contraindications of each spa modality.

(45 clock hours)

The Advanced Hydrotherapy class is intended to extend the choice of modalities available to the massage therapist besides basic full body massage. This class will extend their scope of practice and knowledge base of the spa industry while allowing them to offer these services to their clients.

(60 clock hours)

Basic business principles that will be covered in this course include how to find a job; how to start your own business; promoting and marketing; public expectations of massage therapists; business ethics; Nebraska law; and financial management. The course information will provide characteristics of professionalism and discuss benefits of involvement in a professional association, the need for continuing education, and growing opportunities in massage therapy.

(30 clock hours)

The purpose of this course is to facilitate student reflection on habits, attitudes, beliefs, and expectations that influence academic and career success. Self-exploration topics will include professionalism, respect, integrity, caring, and engagement in the context of both the educational and the workplace environment. Students will learn to critically self-reflect as a process in achieving desired future outcomes academically and professionally. Other topics covered include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

(60 clock hours)

Pathology is devoted to the definition, etiology, signs, and symptoms of conditions commonly encountered by a licensed massage therapist. The purpose of this course is to help the massage student build a knowledge base upon which he or she can begin to practice. This knowledge base will enable a therapist to deal with clients in whom such conditions may exist and provide a basis for communication with other health professionals.

(60 clock hours)

The course will cover problems related to specific client injuries, diseases, conditions, and limitations considering therapeutic strategies in providing massage, with resulting case management documentation, assessment, and client education. The class will also stress the timely review of client documentation, concise client history-taking, and prompt determination of session strategy, as well as development of a therapy plan with the client.

(60 clock hours)

This course focuses on the concept of wellness and an integrative approach to health.  The course is devoted to examining what it means to live by following a healthy lifestyle based off of philosophies from various traditions. The student will also learn the basic theories and practices of Eastern medicine as they apply to both massage practice and client evaluation. The course is intended as a survey of general topics associated with Eastern medicine; certain underlying concepts will be covered in more depth.

(180 clock hours)

This is a series of four massage therapy clinical courses. It is the hands-on application of massage therapy to clients. Clinic hours will be set up in a flexible schedule to accommodate the student and clinic needs. Each student will be required to maintain a certain number of clinic hours each week and follow the SOAP documentation procedures in order to track the progress of clients. Each student will need to complete 45 hours of massage therapy clinic and fieldwork hours in each of the four courses.

(7.5 clock hours)

Students will become certified in CPR and First Aid before beginning student clinic. These classes are offered at OSMT.

(60 clock hours)

This hands-on course consists of learning and performing numerous massage therapy skills to enhance the student’s current application of therapeutic massage in a clinical setting. The student will learn the application and techniques unique to various modalities that include, but are not limited to, postural assessment, connective tissue massage, trigger point therapy, remedial exercise/stretching, applications of hot and cold hydrotherapy, and positioning. The course will incorporate a comprehensive analytical and practical application of therapeutic massage.