Massage therapists in Alabama will find that they’re in a state that offers great health options, an excellent tourism industry, and a wonderful climate for growing a business. Alabama has a population of more than 4.5 million people and a number of bustling cities including Mobile, Montgomery, and Birmingham.

Whether your specialty is massage therapy, acupuncture, or personal training, it’s wise to complete some form of higher education. Not only does it provide a clear path to professional certification, it will set you apart from other job candidates, as having a degree is a great way to show that you are serious about your career. You’ll find that there are a variety of places to study, including learning institutes, private schools, community colleges, and four year universities. As a massage therapist, you can expect to learn about massage theory, principles of treatment, assessment, ethics and more. Personal training and acupuncture will also include topics like anatomy and kinesiology.

Massage therapy school can be quite expensive, with tuition ranging from $1,000 to $9,000 and beyond. However, higher education in your profession is almost always a good investment. The state of Alabama has a number of resources that will help you get the financial aid you need to complete school. Through the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, you’ll be able to find programs including grants, scholarships, and work study. Specifically, you can find the Two-Year College Academic Scholarship Program, and the Alabama Student Assistance Program.

Therapeutic professionals in Alabama will generally find work in settings such as fitness centers, hospitals, private offices, and studios. With Alabama’s healthy tourism industry, you can also expect to find work in spas, hotels, and even airports.

As a massage therapist in Alabama, you’ll be paid well. Massage therapists in Alabama can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, with a salary ranging from $27,000 to $61,000 and beyond. If you’d like to increase your salary, you can consider working in higher end salons, sought after spas, or in private homes. Earning additional experience and education will also do well to earn you a higher salary. But no matter what your earning level is, it will go far in Alabama due to the state’s low cost of living.

Top Massage Therapy Programs

	Boca Beauty Academy of Massage - If you're interested in becoming a massage therapist, Boca Beauty Academy of Massage offers a fantastic program for students interested in this growing industry.
Cincinnati Cleveland	Center for Massage & Natural Health - The Center for Massage & Natural Health assists students in reaching their goal of becoming a massage therapist affordably and conveniently.
Boston Tampa Scottsdale	Cortiva Institute for Massage - Cortiva Institute for Massage prepares aspiring massage therapists with a rigorous program in the field of massage therapy. With locations available across the country, students can get prepared quickly.
	U.S. Career Institute - At the U.S. Career Institute, students will be taught alternative health treatments to assist people in feeling better. With a number of organizations hiring in various positions, don't pass up this opportunity to go back to school and start a great career.