Flexible massage therapy training options
Are you looking to retrain into a rewarding new career working in the health sector? Are you currently working in the massage healthcare sector or have completed a level 4 massage certificate but want to upgrade your qualifications?
The New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine (NZCCM) offers nationally by hybrid/blended learning delivery both the Level 5 NZ Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage, and the Level 6 NZ Diploma in Remedial Massage. The college has offered the Level 5 diploma since 2018 and has delivered the level 6 diploma to distant and local students via blended learning since 2021.
Currently, NZCCM is the only provider offering level 6 remedial massage in the wider Auckland region. Both qualifications have proved popular, with students nationwide successfully completing the programmes.
The hybrid/blended option provides learners with flexibility about how and where they study, along with the benefits of classroom delivery and direct contact with, and learning support from, tutors. It also enables greater access nationally as those outside of Auckland can link to classes via Zoom online.
Students in Auckland will undertake a mix of face-to-face and online delivery, which provides flexibility to vary study commitments and opportunities to maintain work-related commitments while completing academic work.
Both diplomas are offered as one-year full-time courses, or two-year part-time courses. The hybrid/blended course
design comprises face-to-face classes/ zoom links, online learning modules in theory work, and on-campus practical block modules offered using the college’s well-equipped massage clinic facilities at the Auckland campus.
Students meet the supervised practical requirements to register as a massage therapist with Aotearoa Massage New Zealand both through the block courses and for level 6 also with the possible option of completing an approved individualised local clinical work placement.
The programmes are taught by experienced teaching staff; all practitioner educators who work, research, and educate in
their fields. This is a valuable resource for students embarking on a massage career in healthcare. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills required for effective professional clinical practice in either wellness and relaxation massage therapies or remedial massage therapies. They also obtain the latest internationally recognised qualifications in their field, opening the door to a wide range of employment opportunities.
Students who complete the Level 6 Remedial Massage programme may pathway to a Bachelor in Massage Therapy.
Both programmes have recently been revised and upgraded to the latest NZQA approved version. Dr Felicity Molloy, NZCCM Academic Quality Manager and former member of the Executive of Massage Aotearoa New Zealand, says the new version “enhances our graduates’ position in allied healthcare with a strong focus on optimising well-being for individuals within communities”.
In addition to the massage programmes, the New Zealand College of Chinese Medicine is also offering the following programmes for enrolments starting July 29, 2024:
• Master of Chinese Medicine Level 9
• Graduate Certificate in Chinese Medicine (Tuina Massage) Level 7
• Bachelor of Health Science degree in Chinese medicine (4 years) Level 7
• Bachelor of Health Science degree in acupuncture (3 years) Level 7
• English Language (NZCEL Level 4 and NZCEL Level 5).
Each college programme offers retraining opportunities and good employment prospects in a respected health sector profession and/or pathways to further training for people who want to focus on new skills and work opportunities.
The next Open Day, Tuesday April 30, offers information on all qualifications offered, demonstrations by massage staff, a campus tour, and the chance to meet staff and discuss programmes.
For details on any programmes offered, phone the college on 0800 888-518 or 09 580-2376, or email the college on enrolment@chinesemedicine.ac.nz