The Massage Therapy Advanced Standing course is currently NOT enrolling students.
If you are interested in becoming a massage therapist, please see the Massage Therapy Diploma Program.
Option | Full-Time | Part-Time |
---|---|---|
Length | 30-40 Weeks | 66 Weeks |
Class Time | Days or Evenings | Weekends |
Entrance Requirements |
| |
Campus Location | Brampton, ON / Virtual Classroom |
Massage Therapy Advanced Standing Program Status:
INACTIVE
Space is limited.
Strict entrance requirements.
Financial Aid is available to those who qualify.
Due to the impact of COVID-19 on classes and operations, these times may vary.
“I received an excellent education at National Institute. My teachers were amazing, friendly, and very helpful. The small class size was just what I needed to get the individual attention and learn the information I needed to pass my CMTO certification exams.”
– Krystle Robinson, Registered Massage Therapist



Massage Therapy Advanced Standing Course Curriculum
The Massage Therapy Advanced Standing course is an accelerated program for prospective students with prior education and experience in Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology. Students accepted into the Advanced Standing program are exempted from Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology classes. As such, you will be able to complete the Massage Therapy Diploma much faster.
The course is designed to prepare you for taking the CMTO’s Registration Examinations (MCQ & OSCE). You will learn everything you need to become a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) in Ontario.
Courses Include:
- Theory of Massage Therapy
- Swedish Techniques
- Public Health
- Kinesiology & Remedial Exercise
- Hydrotherapy
- Nutrition
- Ethics & Regulations
- Self-Employment Business Management
The Massage Therapy Advanced Standing course curriculum is accepted by the CMTO. You will expand your knowledge of advanced massage theory in health science, professional development, and clinical science. Additionally, you will get practical hands-on experience in our campus clinic and through community outreach trips.
In order to successfully receive a Massage Therapy diploma, you will need to achieve a passing grade of 70% or more in course work. Near the end of your course, you will undertake a MCQ and OSCE mock licensing exam, designed similarly to the exams required by the CMTO. You will also need to achieve a minimum 70% grade on these mock exams.
How to Qualify for the Advanced Standing Program?

There are strict requirements for entry into the Massage Therapy Advanced Standing program. You must meet the following qualifications:
- Completed a degree with Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology as major subjects;
- Practical work experience with the aforementioned degree;
- Minimum of 22 years of age;
- Submit official transcripts from previous education institution;
- Pass a Prior Learning Assessment and entrance examination (75% passing grade).
What if I don’t qualify? That’s OK! You can take the standard Massage Therapy Diploma Program and learn everything you need to become a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) in Ontario. Click here for course information →
Massage Therapist Career Profile

As an existing healthcare professional, you have already experienced many similar demands of a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). Here are some common careers prospective students hold, when coming into the Massage Therapy Advanced Standing Program:
- Physiotherapist or Kinesiologist
- Alternative Medicine Professional
- Sports Therapist
- Ayurvedic Practitioner
- Naturopath or Homeopath
- Foreign Trained Medical Professional
An RMT will treat clients by applying manual pressure to muscles and other soft tissues. Using your knowledge of human anatomy, you will identify root causes of pain or discomfort. Your work will relieve pain, promote healing, and reduce stress.
An experienced massage therapist is able to earn up to $100 / hr (around $200,000 / year). It is a lucrative career that enables you to help people improve their health. In Canada, becoming a Massage Therapist is considered a recession resilient career – as a health care professional you will always be needed.
Massage Therapists can work just about anywhere. Some common work places include:
- Health Clinics
- Spas
- Hospitals
- Rehabilitation Centres
- Resorts & Cruise Lines
- Nursing Homes
- In Your Own Clinic or Spa
- At Your Client’s Home (Mobile Massage Services)
