Hands-On Learning in a Supportive Community
Student life at Advanced Fuller School of Massage is centered on hands on practice, structured learning, and steady mentorship. Whether you are in the day track or the evening and weekend track, you will learn in small groups, develop confidence through supervised practice, and prepare step by step for both the professional world and the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination.
What Student Life Includes
Experience
What Student Life Feels Like
Learning is immersive, collaborative, and built around steady progress.
Students build skill through repeated hands on work in a structured setting.
Coursework in anatomy and physiology supports safer, more informed practice.
Instructors offer practical feedback and coaching as students refine their technique.
Classmates learn from one another, compare notes, and encourage steady improvement.
Practice
Supervised Practice Access
Practice beyond scheduled classes
In addition to scheduled class time, students have access to the classroom for extra supervised practice. Posted hours are available in person, and many students use this time to strengthen techniques, refine body mechanics, and prepare for practical check offs.
These sessions provide real time feedback and help you build confidence before working with outside clients.
Core Program
Level 1 Core Program — 375 Hours
The foundation of massage training begins with anatomy, physiology, technique labs, ethics, and professional practice.
During Level 1, students complete the core curriculum that builds the foundation of massage practice. You will focus on anatomy, physiology, technique labs, and ethics while building stamina and professionalism through consistent practice.
Day Track
A daytime training rhythm with built in practice opportunities.
| Day | Class Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM | |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM | |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM | Practice 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM or as scheduled |
Evening and Weekend Track
A flexible option for students balancing work, family, or other commitments.
| Day | Class Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM | |
| Friday | 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM | Practice on Saturday evenings or as scheduled |
Electives
Level 2 Electives Toward 625 Total Hours
Continue your training after Level 1 and complete the remaining hours needed for the 625-hour program.
Plan for about 250 elective hours after the 375-hour core program. Mix morning, evening, and weekend options to fit your life.
Study Support
Practice and Study Time
Hands on repetition and feedback
Each week includes supervised practice sessions where students alternate between giving and receiving massage. This approach sharpens technique and builds empathy by showing what it feels like to be the client.
Many students form study groups for anatomy, contraindications, and practical skills.
Expectations
Professional Standards in Student Life
Student life is supportive, but it is also structured around professional conduct and readiness.
- Provide only services you have been trained for and refer clients out when appropriate
- Respect physical boundaries and client comfort at all times
- Do not practice while ill or under the influence of substances
- Sexual misconduct or suggestive behavior is strictly prohibited
- Neat, clean attire required
- Short sleeved collared shirts are required and layers are fine
- No jeans, tank tops, sweatpants, or spandex
- Leggings may be worn with a long top that covers the gluteal area
- Tattoos and visible piercings should be covered during class or clinic
- Electronics may be used only for class related activities
- Personal use is fine during breaks
- Recording audio or video is allowed only with instructor permission and may not be shared
Support Tools
Library, Learning Resources, and Equipment
Library and learning support
Students have access to on site resources including textbooks, anatomical models, videos, and massage tables. The school also partners with Central Library on Virginia Beach Boulevard for additional materials. Mentoring is available for elective planning, exam preparation, and career support.
External Resources
Helpful Links
Student Experience
A Supportive Path
Student life at Advanced Fuller School of Massage is structured, professional, and encouraging. With small class sizes, supportive instructors, supervised practice, and flexible electives, you will find both the discipline and mentorship you need to succeed.
From your first technique lab to your final elective, each step prepares you for the licensing exam and a rewarding career in massage therapy.
Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Are evening and weekend students taught the same material as day students?
How do supervised practice hours work?
Can I make up a missed class?
Do I need my own massage table?
What should I wear to class and practice?
Where can I find full program rules and policies?
What students should keep in mind
- Both tracks cover the same core curriculum with different schedule formats.
- Supervised practice is a major part of skill building and practical preparation.
- Students should plan for personal linens and a massage table for at home practice.
- The Program Catalog remains the governing source for official schedules, policies, and requirements.