Massage Therapy
Prepare for a career in sports, therapeutic or relaxation massage therapy. Learn the invaluable skills of this profession through real-life work experience at our very own on-campus massage clinic.
Our massage therapy programmes are highly regarded within the South Island Massage industry. As well as practicing the various techniques of massage, you will learn about anatomy, physiology, and get a sound introduction to business management.
We have an excellent relationship with Massage New Zealand (MNZ) - the only massage therapy-specific membership body in New Zealand. You’ll have the option to become a registered Massage Therapist upon graduating, which offers all sorts of benefits.
At Otago Polytechnic, we focus on practical learning. The real-world experience you’ll gain at our on-campus Massage Clinic will provide you with the skills to seamlessly transition from study to industry.
Massage Therapy qualifications
Health, Health & Wellbeing
This qualification gives you an advanced understanding of anatomy and physiology. You’ll learn clinical techniques and theory, and have the opportunity to apply what you learn in our massage clinic, with real clients.Duration
1 Year Full-time
2 Years Part-time
Delivery
On campus
Career potential
Health and Beauty Massage Therapist, Massage Therapist, Remedial Massage Therapist, Sports Massage Therapist, Stress Management Educator, Wellness Coach
Health, Health & Wellbeing
Don’t have the academic requirements you need to enter one of our diploma- or degree-level healthcare programmes? No problem. By studying courses such as Function of the Human Body and an Introduction to Careers in Health, you will be well prepared to apply for your chosen diploma or degree.Duration
1 Year Full-time
2 Years Part-time
Delivery
On campus, Online with block course(s)
Health, Health & Wellbeing
This Level 4 programme is the second part of our health bridging pathway for those that don't yet meet the entry requirements for our diploma or degree level health programmes. To enter directly into Level 4, you need to hold a New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) (our Level 3 Health Bridging certificate), or equivalent, e.g. NCEA Level 3.Duration
17 Weeks Full-time
1 Year Part-time
Delivery
On campus, Online with block course(s)
Student Story
Becks Jonson
Since graduating, Becks has worked with elite athletes, including the Highlanders, Otago Cricket and the Southern Steel. Contacts she made during her study opened many doors.
Discover our Institute of Sport, Exercise, and Health
Get a taste of what it’s like to study this field at Otago Polytechnic:
- See all programmes offered
- Meet your lecturers and find out what makes them leaders in their chosen area
- Hear about our latest news and events
- Learn first-hand what it’s like to study with us from real students and graduates
- Read about our postgraduate research and projects
Graduate and get registered with MNZ
As a graduate, you will be able to apply for registration with Massage New Zealand (MNZ).
Contact us
If you’re not sure what to study and would like some guidance, we’re here to help. Feel free to chat to us directly about any questions you may have.
