Centralia College is expanding career training opportunities with the launch of a new massage therapy program beginning this fall, according to a news release from the college.
The program is the first of several new workforce-focused offerings the college plans to introduce as it continues to respond to regional employment needs and student interest.
Applications for the massage therapy program open online June 1. Classes begin Sept. 21. Students must be at least 18 years old when classes begin and complete a Washington State Patrol background check.
Enrollment for the first cohort is limited to 12 students. Application instructions are available at www.centralia.edu.
The new program is designed to prepare students for licensure as massage therapists in Washington state. Students will complete 765 training hours over nine months, including classroom instruction, hands-on practice and clinical experience. The college will operate a student clinic during winter and spring quarters, where the public can receive reduced-cost massages from students.
Classes will run full-time from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday at Centralia College’s Southwest Washington Flexible Training (SWFT) Center on Pear Street.
“We are excited to offer local students another pathway into a rewarding healthcare career,” said Becky Coleman, dean of career and technical education. “This program creates an opportunity for students to complete high-quality training close to home while preparing for employment in a growing field.”
Coleman said the college anticipates offering financial aid and workforce funding opportunities for qualifying students, helping make the program accessible to a broader range of students.
“Launching new programs takes tremendous collaboration and planning,” she added. “We are proud to continue expanding career education opportunities that support students, employers, and our community. This is just one of several exciting additions the college will be sharing in the coming months.”
The college’s last new program launch was the bachelor of applied science in behavioral healthcare, which began in fall 2021.
