Year One


Anatomy & Physiology


AP1-This course presents an introduction to the structure and function of the human body. Topics include medical terminology, building blocks of life (basic chemistry), major tissues and all organ systems of the body. 

AP2-This course is a continuation of the study of structure and function of human body. Many systems of the body are studied, keeping in mind the inter-relatedness of these systems.  A few classes will be devoted to nutrition and to exercise physiology.

Musculoskeletal Anatomy


MS1-In this challenging course, students learn the bones, muscles, ligaments and joints of the body using a regional approach. Palpation is taught as an integral part of this learning. 

MS2-This course is a continuation of Musculoskeletal Anatomy 1, and is designed to gain knowledge of the gross anatomy of the human musculoskeletal system and fundamentals of bio-mechanics related to specific joints. This course will also have a significant palpation component that will set the foundation for future courses.

Communication & Ethics


CE1-This course covers communication skills and key ethical issues in the massage profession. We identify, understand, and apply professional conduct and ethics related to clear boundaries and effective therapeutic relationships. Topics include ethical business practices; professional values clarification, critical thinking and problem solving related to ethical issues, conflict resolution and negotiation skills. Students are invited to enhance emotional intelligence through self reflection and collaborative dialogue with classmates. 

CE2-This course covers laws relating to healthcare professionals, and registered massage therapists specifically.  Healthcare regulation in BC, CMTBC  bylaws, and standards of practise are covered with  further  development of communication skills  introduced in CE1.

Year Two


Pathology


Path1-Pathology is defined as the study of the nature and cause of disease, which involves changes in structure and function. Student's understanding of anatomy and physiology will be applied in the study of pathologies. Pathology 1 includes the study of General Pathology and Musculoskeletal Pathology.

Path2-Pathology 2 is the continuation of Pathology 1 Course. It builds on your knowledge of Pathology 1, and Anatomy and Physiology 1 and 2.  Main emphasis of the course is on the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of common systemic disorders. The course includes pharmacology classes about basic concepts, use, effects and side effects of medications.

Research


Research 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


This course offers an introduction to small business including: - Entrepreneurship: business structures and their characteristics, i.e. partnerships, incorporation, advantages and disadvantages - Setting effective goals: developing a mission statement and a business plan; Marketing strategies; - Small business accounting, and the massage therapy practice as a business. 

Neuroanatomy


NA1-This course takes a more in-depth look at Neuroanatomy, including topics such as peripheral nervous system and nerve physiology. Neuropathology will be included and integrated with neurological assessment and treatment from a Massage Therapist perspective.

NA2-This  second-year course is devoted to the study of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropathology and treatment of conditions of the central and peripheral nervous systems. This course includes topics such as higher brain function, learning, memory and more. It builds on previous material and complements academic and practical classes in second year.  

Integrated Science


Students will integrate knowledge from Anatomy, Kinesiology, Pathology and Physiology with a regional and systems approach to 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.