Hello! I'm a high school junior from another country and I'm interested in going to a college in California for massage therapy. Are certain schools better for international students?
There are several California institutions renowned for massage therapy programs that can provide you with high quality instruction and preparation for a future career in this field.
Nationally accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), the National Holistic Institute has a strong reputation and would be a great option to consider. They offer a 450-hour Advanced Neuromuscular Therapy Program that delves deep into the science behind neuromuscular therapy, an area of massage therapy for treatment of chronic pain conditions.
Another possibility is the Pacific College of Health and Science, which provides a unique blend of Eastern and Western massage techniques in their curriculum, to produce graduates who are prepared to work in a variety of settings.
As an international student, you'll need to pay attention to visa processes and the support offered by the institution for such matters - admissions counselors are a great resource to answer any questions you may have, and to provide general information about the support the school gives to international students. Services to evaluate include visa processing assistance, guidance on how to adapt to living in the US, and even job placement support after graduation.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the cost of living in California varies widely depending on the area, with cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco being some of the most expensive in the world. So, make sure you keep location and corresponding cost in mind as you consider schools, especially since massage therapy colleges typically don't provide on-campus living and dining options the way a traditional American college would.
Ultimately, the "best" college will depend on your personal goals, learning style, and budget. Keep these factors in mind as you research each school, review their curriculum, and contact them directly to get all your queries answered. Happy massaging!
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