Within this state agency is a credentialing board for massage therapy and bodywork. The panel determines education and examination requirements for practitioners, issuing licenses to those who qualify. It also adopts rules for renewing licenses and receiving continuing education.
Another board duty is to identify schools and programs that meet specified curriculum criteria. Instructors must have a certain level of education and experience. A list of approved institutions is posted online.
The board establishes standards of professional conduct. It launches investigations into possible violations of laws, regulations, and policies. Fines, license suspensions, and license revocations are among the punishments that may result.
Minimum Education Requirements for Massage Therapy Programs in Wisconsin
A high school diploma or a GED is mandatory for anyone seeking to become a massage therapist in Wisconsin. The next level of education must be at a postsecondary institution with accreditation the state credentialing board accepts.
Board rules stipulate that a massage therapy program total 600 or more content hours of instruction and training. This must include 125 hours in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and kinesiology classes; and 50 hours in business, law, and ethics.
At least 300 hours are to be devoted to massage and bodywork theory, technique, and practice — with 100 hours of supervised, hands-on practice and 20 hours working in a student clinic. Adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation and standard first aid must be addressed in five classroom hours.
Many schools exceed the requirements by providing instruction in a larger variety of massage modalities. Some curricula feature courses preparing students to open their own practices, while others allow for extended clinical experience.
Those who graduate may apply to the state board for licensure. They have to pass a national certification test called the Message and Bodywork Licensing Examination.
The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards accepts applications to take the exam. Another required test concerns laws and administrative rules in the state.
Every other year, a Wisconsin practitioner must apply for a renewed license. This entails earning 24 hours of continuing education, including two hours in ethics.