Oregon School of Massage - Salem

The Oregon School of Massage

The Oregon School of Massage (OSM), founded in 1984 and licensed by the Oregon Department of Education, is a private, professional school devoted to massage and related health education. The school is committed to providing a holistic education, which integrates the body, mind, heart and spirit. At OSM we ask students to look at their massage education as a period of personal growth, as well as training for a new and rewarding career. We see our program as an opportunity for individuals to look at their inner world of beliefs, emotions and behaviors while exploring the body and techniques of massage.

The rigorous study of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology, hydrotherapy and massage is augmented by time for students to share their experiences both as givers and receivers of touch. Our staff supports this process by honoring each student wherever they are in their development and by nurturing change as it occurs.

555-Hour Massage Certificate Program

The Oregon School of Massage grants a Massage Certificate preparing the student for licensure in Oregon and Washington, as well as National Certification. The certificate program includes 555 hours of quality professional training, and incorporates the study of disease from the psycho-spiritual and medical perspectives. Training also includes a learning retreat at Breitenbush Hot Springs.

Our modular program offers a flexible schedule in Portland and Salem, with day, evening and weekend classes. Massage classes have a low teacher to student ratio - normally 1 to 16. Health science classes range from 16 to 24 students and many classes have a teaching assistant.

Electives and Continuing Education

In addition to flexible scheduling options, students can choose from over 50 different elective and continuing education classes offered over the course of the year. The following is a sampling of these courses:

• Aromatic Body Stone Therapy - Using hot or cool stones and essential oils, this class is a great addition to students wanting to pursue a career in the spa industry. Taught by Anne Williams, LMP #WA11404, co-founder of Aromatic Body Stone Therapy.
• Deep Tissue - Learn how to give a deeper massage using less strength and energy.
• Lymph Drainage - Marney Richards, LMT #7902, teaches this gentle, deeply relaxing form of bodywork.
• On-Site Chair Massage - This two-part workshop, taught by David Martz, LMT #4608, covers all aspects of this popular modality.
• Reiki - Taught by Dr. Frank Coppieters, PhD, LMT #2385.

Staff

Our staff is composed of skilled professionals in massage, naturopathy, counseling, psychotherapy, nursing and other health care disciplines. As we encourage our students, so do we encourage our staff members to commit to their own inner growth and clarity, particularly as it relates to their ability to become better teachers. It is our belief that this ensures the ability of our staff to support the personal and professional changes that occur as students study touch, massage and bodywork.

Cost Information

The cost of OSM's 555-hour program is $9550. (This amount does not include additional costs, such as textbooks, massage table, supplies or student liability insurance.) Students must pay the full tuition or make payment arrangements before the start of classes. A variety of payment options are available. Please contact an admissions coordinator by requesting more information.

The school is also approved to accept Veterans Administration financial assistance for those students who qualify. Students seeking financial assistance are urged to explore other sources such as local credit union loan programs, vocational rehabilitation and worker re-training agencies, as well as private scholarship funds. OSM is an approved school for participation in the SLM Financial Corporation Student Loan program (administrators of the Sallie May loan). This is not a Title IV Federal Student Aid loan, but the program funds educational loans at significantly reduced interest rates, and has several re-payment options.

Students are required to have student liability insurance. You may purchase this from ABMP or AMTA professional organizations. The cost of ABMP insurance is $70 for 18 months.

Students are asked to provide their own massage oil or lotion, sheets, blankets, bolsters and holster for hands-on classes. In addition, students are asked to have several professional massages during their training.

Admissions and Enrollment

Applicants for the prelicensing training must have a high school diploma or equivalent. One or more years of college training is recommended. Students must be at least 18 years of age or have the approval of the OSM Director of Education. The school requires applicants to have received a minimum of one professional Swedish massage during the previous year. This massage experience will be discussed during the admissions interview.

The Oregon School of Massage admits students of any race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, sexual preference, political affiliation or veteran status to the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The school does not discriminate on the basis of the above in the administration of its educational policies, payment plans, or other school-administered programs.

Oregon School of Massage's policy is to maintain an environment free from any form of harassment, including harassment for any of the items listed in the previous paragraph.

If you are interested in any of our programs and would like to find out more, please Request Information.