Course Descriptions

Listed below are the course descriptions for the selected subject.
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THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE



MASG 1001 -- Introduction to Massage,   4 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage Pre-Program Orientation

Recommended Skills, Abilities, or Coursework: Placement into college-level reading and writing as demonstrated by meeting enrollment requirements for ENGL 1121.

This course presents the theory, skills, and experience that are the foundation for becoming a Massage Therapist. Students will learn techniques and a routine for a full body massage, including basic anatomy and palpation skills, contraindications for massage, and proper forms of draping. Effective procedures are introduced in proper body mechanics, therapist self-care, professionalism, session management, and documentation. Students are introduced to various products and equipment for massage therapy.


MASG 1020 -- Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology for Clinical Massage,   4 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites: BIOL 1102 and BIOL 1104 both with a grade of C or better

In this course students study all of the following body systems as they apply to therapeutic massage: circulatory, respiratory, muscular, skeletal, nervous, and articular. Emphasis is on the relationship among muscle attachments, joints, and bony landmarks. Examination of human movement through association of muscle and muscle function to levers and their connection to planes of movement and the supporting structures are addressed. In addition, the application of the understanding of kinesiology to safe and effective massage therapy is addressed related to all body systems.


MASG 1021 -- Clinical Massage Techniques I,   4 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites: MASG 1001, MASG 2102, BIOL 1102, BIOL 1104 all with a grade of C or better. Co-requisite MASG 1020.

This course provides the theory and application of advanced rehabilitative massage therapy techniques that focus on the treatment of soft tissue to maintain, develop, augment, or rehabilitate physical function. Techniques will focus on neuromuscular therapy, trigger point therapy, cross-fiber friction, therapeutic stretches, muscle energy techniques, and rehabilitative massage. Students will refine skills in palpation, anatomy, functional muscle testing, range of motion, and postural and gait analysis. Students will learn to create a treatment and care plan based on assessments and learn advanced SOAP note charting.


MASG 1022 -- Pathology for Clinical Massage,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites: MASG 1001, MASG 2102, BIOL 1102, BIOL 1104 all with a grade of C or better.

Pre- or co-requisites MASG 1020 and MASG 1021.

This course provides an introduction to the study of the fundamental process and dysfunction of the body caused by disease. Students will learn common pathologies for various body systems including neuromuscular, neurological, gastrointestinal, integumentary, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, genitourinary, and hermetic. Specific treatment options for massage therapy and the indications and contradictions for the pathologies are examined. Students will develop the ability to make knowledgeable choices about safety and discernment about treatment.


MASG 1023 -- Clinical Massage for Special Populations,   4 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites: MASG 1001, MASG 2102, BIOL 1102, BIOL 1104 all with a grade of C or better.

Pre- or co-requisites MASG 1020 and MASG 1021

This course provides the study of theoretical concepts and the practice of specialized massage therapy protocol for populations of people who are vulnerable because of a physical limitation or life stage. Populations include: pre- and post-pregnancy massage, infant massage, cancer, hospice and palliative care, chronic and acute pain management, geriatric massage, chronic illness, clients with PTSD and those with disabilities. The students will focus on learning appropriate technique for the pathology, etiology, indications, contraindications, adaptations, and emotional/psychological considerations from both the Western and Asian body of knowledge. Students will learn to design a treatment and care plan based on the specific needs required.


MASG 1296 -- Therapeutic Massage Clinic,   1 credit Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites (must have a grade of C or better): MASG 1001

In this course, Therapeutic Massage students will gain experience with treatment application skills and clinical decision-making. There will be opportunities for performing a variety of massage modalities while providing therapy services to clients from the ARCC internal community. This is repeatable up to 3 credits.


MASG 2102 -- Food as Medicine/Biologically Based Therapies,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(Cross-listed as IHH 2102)

Recommended Skills, Abilities, or Coursework: Placement into college-level reading and writing as demonstrated by meeting enrollment requirements for ENGL 1121

This course provides an introduction to the importance of nutrition basics for a healthy body, mind, and spirit. Students will learn the role food can play in both prevention and treatment of most chronic illnesses. Discussions will involve how environmental, social, economic, emotional, and cultural issues affect nutrition. Students will also learn about dietary supplements and herbs including the history, regulation, scientific research, and indications and contraindications for use.


MASG 2105 -- Basics in Business and Ethics for the Holistic Practitioner,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(Cross-listed as IHH 2105)

This course provides practical information related to the fundamentals of business and ethics in holistic practice management. Common business practices and structures, contracts and legal agreements, financial considerations, record keeping, networking, marketing, and methods to promote and maintain a successful practice are presented. Students will learn about decision making skills, interpersonal and professional communication, ethical and professional roles and responsibilities, and how to handle ethical dilemmas in the practice of holistic healing.


MASG 2108 -- Clinical Massage Techniques II,   4 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites: MASG 1020 and MASG 1021 both with a grade of C or better

This course provides the basic theory and application of advanced massage therapy techniques that support and strengthen the body's natural ability to heal and balance itself. Techniques will focus on Asian bodywork, craniosacral therapy, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, reflexology, and energy therapy. Students will refine skills in palpation, anatomical landmarks, observational skills, and touch awareness, and how to relieve pain and dysfunction to improve whole-body health and performance. Students will learn to create a treatment and care plan based on medical history and assessment.


MASG 2296 -- Clinical Massage Practicum On-Campus Clinic,   1 credit Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Co-requisite MASG 2108

This is Part I of the capstone course combination to the Therapeutic Massage Program. The on-campus clinic is an industry-based learning experience in the presence of the faculty. The clinic optimizes student skills prior to beginning Part II of the capstone course combination where the student can integrate skills and knowledge gained in the program in a safe, structured environment.


MASG 2297 -- Clinical Massage Practicum and Internship,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Prerequisites: Pre- or co-requisite MASG 2108

This is the capstone course to the Therapeutic Massage Program. The internship is an individually-designed, industry-based learning experience, approved by the faculty and the on-site supervisor, in a setting consistent with the student's program goals in which the student can integrate skills and knowledge gained in the program.


MASG 2298 -- Clinical Massage Internship,   2 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Co-requisites: MASG 2108 and MASG 2296

This is the capstone course to the Therapeutic Massage Program. The internship is an individually-designed, industry-based learning experience, approved by the faculty and the on-site supervisor, in a setting consistent with the student's program goals in which the student can integrate skills and knowledge gained in the program. Students perform therapeutic massage duties in an external clinical setting for a combined 120 hours of hands-on practicum with MASG 2296.