Massage Theory & Practice 1
Year One, Term 1The primary focus of this course is on learning foundation massage techniques. An overview is given of body mechanics, physical stress management, corrective actions, care of the body and hands, taking a health history, and the client therapist/interview process. Discussion topics include the history of massage, the role of the massage therapist and spa practitioner, self-care and determining when massage is appropriate (indications) and when it is not (contraindications).
Massage Theory and Practice 2
Year One, Term 1In this course we continue building on the foundations of MTP1. The assessment model is introduced with emphasis on observation, palpation and range of motion. Technique development is continued with the introduction of hot and cold stone massage, aromatherapy, trigger points and lymphatic drainage massage.
Hydrotherapy
Year One, Term 2You are introduced to the therapeutic applications of water in all its forms. Modalities, such as salt glow and scrub, clay packs, herbal wraps, other physical agents and additives, affusions, contrast baths, paraffin wax and sauna are included.
You will also be introduced to actinotherapy. Actinotherapy is defined as the use of “rays of light” for therapeutic benefit. This brief course presents the theory of ultraviolet and infrared light and their application in a massage therapist’s practice.
Sports Massage
Year One, Term 2The primary focus in this course is the use of manual techniques in athletic situations, including pre-event, injury prevention and rehabilitation. To facilitate skill development, integration and application of material learned in class, students will have the opportunity to work on-site at sports events.
Neuromuscular Therapy and Myofascial Release
Year One, Term 2Students are taught how to facilitate the restoration of muscle and fascia to a healthy state, utilizing neuromuscular and fascial release techniques. A continued development of assessment, palpation and communication is encouraged as these powerful techniques are explored.
Practicum: Student In-House Clinic
Year One, Term 2Each student is assigned a 5-hour per week clinic shift working in the Student In-House Clinic throughout Term 2. Clinic shifts are scheduled in the evenings and/or Saturday mornings.
Students are given the opportunity to practice and integrate the skills they have developed to date under the supervision and mentorship of professional massage therapists.
The primary focus of first year clinic is systemic massage with emphasis on stress reduction and wellness for the client. Students practice professionalism and teamwork. Student responsibilities include all aspects of operating a clinic such as receptionist duties, computer skills, cash management and laundry.
Communications & Ethics 1 & 2
Year One, Term 1 & 2In this course we address interpersonal and intrapersonal communication skills and key ethical issues in the massage profession. We identify, understand and apply professional conduct and ethics related to good boundaries and effective therapeutic relationships, including ethical business practices. We present assertiveness strategies and basics of conflict resolution and negotiation skills. Students are invited to enhance emotional intelligence and review approaches to self-care such as breathing techniques, self-reflection and collaborative dialogue with classmates. This course functions to build a supportive learning community.
Public Health & Hygiene
Year One, Term 1This introductory class includes an overview of the principles of hygiene and public health, and their application to massage therapy.
Anatomy & Physiology 1&2
Year One, Term 1 & 2This course presents an introduction to all the systems of the human body. Where possible, a ‘hands on’ approach is taken, creating an opportunity to develop an applied understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Topics include medical terminology, building blocks of life (basic chemistry), and major tissues of the body. There is a helpful study skills component to this course.
Musculoskeletal Anatomy 1 & 2
Year One, Term 1 & 2In this challenging course, students learn the bones, muscles and ligaments of the body using a regional approach. Palpation is taught as an integral part of this learning. As well, students use plastic models and anatomy-in-clay to integrate and apply this knowledge and skill in hands-on labs.
Clinical Theory & Practice 1 & 2
Year Two, Term 1 & 2This course will combine all course material studied to date. Students learn how to assess and treat specific pathological presentations by integrating massage techniques, hydrotherapy, actinotherapy, and therapeutic exercise, with an understanding of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and communication.
Infant Massage
Year TwoThe Instructor leads three sessions on safe and effective massage for young babies. Babies and moms or dads are present for the third session.
Clinical Practicum – Student In-House Clinic
Year Two, Term 1Clinic: This term, students integrate techniques learned in Hydrotherapy and MTP2.
Clinical Practicum – Intermediate Outreach
Year Two, Term 2Students are placed in practicum situations where they work with clients who have chronic and acute pathologies. This allows the students to integrate their skills learned to date. Such placements include Hydrotherapy, Special Needs, Sports, Maternity, Geriatrics and an Assessment Clinic.
Classes are scheduled to facilitate preparation, debriefing, documentation and discussion of these educational requirements. Some practicums are scheduled in the evenings and/or Saturday mornings.
Therapeutic Exercise
Year Two, Term 2The focus of this course is the study of the principles of exercise and its application and integration in the practice of massage therapy. This exciting course encourages students to develop through participation. There is an emphasis on core stabilization, stretching, strengthening, endurance and coordination.
Joint Mobilization
Year TwoStudents are introduced to the principles, indications and contraindications of joint mobilizations. Emphasis is on application in joint assessment and as a therapeutic modality. This course integrates students’ scientific knowledge with their ability to communicate with clients and their ability to palpate joint structures.
Communications & Ethics 3 & 4
Year Two, Term 1 & 2In this course, students continue an exploration of interpersonal and intrapersonal communication skills and key ethical issues in the massage profession. Students identify, understand and apply professional ethics and conduct, including recognizing challenges for clients with mental health issues, abuse and trauma, post-traumatic stress and other special needs. Topics include phases of group development, handling resentments, anger management and communicating with other health professionals.
Anatomy & Physiology 3
Year Two, Term 1 & 2This course looks at the human body and all its systems at a much deeper level than Year 1. Focus is on a functional and integrative understanding. Nutrition is also covered in this course. It will include basic theory and principles of nutrition including an overview of absorption and metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and major vitamins and minerals including the effects of hypo/hyper supply.
Musculoskeletal Anatomy 3
Year Two, Term 1This course is a continuation of MS 1 & 2. As a natural progression, we will study the joints of the body and their relationship to movement and soft tissues.
Advanced Neuroanatomy
Year Two, Term 2This course takes a more in-depth look at Neuroanatomy, including such topics as higher brain function, learning, memory and more.
Pathology
Year Two, Term 1 & 2“Study of the Nature and Cause of Disease”
Our understanding of
anatomy and physiology will be applied in the study of pathologies.
Diseases of all systems will be covered with particular interest in
those most commonly treated by massage therapists. An introduction to
medicine and pharmacology will be presented as it relates to the
practice of massage therapy.
Research
Year TwoResearch plays an important part in the development of the massage therapy profession. Students will be presented with basic principles to enable him/her to read, recognize, understand and critique current research. Students will prepare a case report for publication as part of this course.
Business
Year TwoThis course offers an introduction to small business including:
- Entrepreneurship: business structures and their characteristics, i.e. partnerships, incorporations, advantages and disadvantages;
- Setting effective goals: developing a mission statement and a business plan;
- Marketing strategies;
- Small business accounting;
- The massage therapy practice as a business.
Integrated Sciences
Year ThreeStudents will integrate knowledge from Anatomy, Kinesiology, Pathology and Physiology in a regional approach and systems approach to aspects of the human body. There will be some emphasis placed on the nervous system, vascular system and the potential anatomical results of physical injury. This class is designed to start preparation for the board exams, helping students to organize notes and mentally build endurance for this type of test.
Jurisprudence
Year ThreeThis course provides a detailed look at the current laws and guidelines that govern the massage therapy profession in British Columbia.
Modalities Used By Other Health Professionals
Year ThreeIt is common for massage therapists to see clients who have received treatment from other health professionals. This brief course introduces the student to the definitions, purpose and precautions of some of these common modalities, in order for the massage therapist to better serve the client within the health care process.
Communications & Ethics 5
Year ThreeIn this course, we address values clarification, critical thinking and problem solving related to ethical issues and ethical dilemmas, and further on conflict resolution.
Clinical Theory & Practice 3
Year ThreeThis course will focus on spinal orthopedics, advanced regional orthopedics and advanced neuropathologies. The class builds on students’ skill and knowledge level of Year 2 and integrates advanced technique application utilizing practicum cases for the development of critical thinking, assessment, management and treatment skills.
Dr. Vodder’s Manual Lymph Drainage
Year ThreeThis intensive course expands on the lymph techniques introduced in Year 1. The theory covers anatomy and physiology of the lymph system, connective tissue, effects of MLD and contraindications. An option for certification is offered by the Dr. Vodder School.
Advanced Techniques
Year ThreeAdvanced techniques that require a heightened level of palpative, manual and intuitive skills are presented in this class. These include counterstrain, ROOD (neural pathology techniques), cranial sacral, muscle energy and visceral techniques. Time is devoted to integrate all techniques developed to date.
Clinic Practicum: Advanced Outreach
Year ThreeThis is a continuation of Year 2, Term 2 Intermediate Outreach opportunities and requirements.
Clinical Practicum: Internship
Year ThreeStudents will have the opportunity to work under the supervision of qualified health professionals in an existing practice for two 3-week Internships. Students are supported in finding an appropriate professional who matches his/her therapeutic interests. In most cases, Internships involve traveling outside of the Vernon area.