LEVEL I CORE
Program Snapshot
Quick Overview
Our Level I Massage Therapy Program serves as the foundation for both the 500-hour and 625-hour training tracks. The program begins with hands-on instruction and focuses on practical skills used directly with clients. Students study anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, ethics, documentation, and client communication. Weekly lab sessions reinforce classroom learning by turning theory into practice. These sessions help students develop safe techniques, strong assessment skills, and a professional approach that prepares them for licensure and advanced elective courses.
Level I Program
Core Foundations
Hands-on training to build strong massage fundamentals.
Why Level I matters:
Level I provides the essential foundation for every massage therapist. It introduces core techniques along with anatomy, physiology, and pathology. This training prepares you to begin working with clients safely, confidently, and with a professional mindset from your very first session.
Level I Start Dates
Upcoming Day & Evening classes for September 2026
Starts
Meets on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Starts
Meets on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
Training that works
Real Training. Real Support. Real Results.
Training that works
Real Training. Real Support. Real Results.
Everything you need to feel confident with real clients and ready for licensure.
Experienced Instructors
Decades of real-world expertise shared with you in every class, lesson, and practice session.Learn from seasoned massage therapists who share decades of teaching and hands-on experience in every class.
Hands-On Practice
Weekly supervised clinics to refine skills, boost confidence, and work with real clients.Join weekly supervised sessions to refine techniques, build confidence, and work directly with real clients in a supportive setting.
Career Support
We hire graduates and connect you with spas, clinics, wellness centers, and rehab facilities.Work opportunities through our own massage business, plus connections to spas, clinics, wellness centers, and sports rehab facilities.
Tuition & Payment
We keep massage training affordable and flexible for students in Hampton Roads.
Start with a one-time $100 enrollment fee, then choose the payment option that works best for you.
Most students choose our interest-free 6-month plan with no credit checks and no outside lenders.
Prefer the lowest total cost? Pay in full. All payments are handled directly through the school.
Pricing applies to both the 500-hour and 625-hour programs.
Additional Costs
Program Overview
Through a combination of hands-on training, clinical reasoning, and applied science, you’ll gain the tools and knowledge to begin practicing massage therapy with skill and confidence. Our Level I Program gives you the solid foundation every massage therapist needs.
All Courses
Basic Massage Therapy
Basic Anatomy & Physiology
Practical Pathology
Core Courses
Explore what you will learn in each core course. Use the tiles to filter, or expand all to scan details quickly.
AFSM-BMT-101
Develop a strong foundation in Swedish massage, deep tissue techniques, and chair massage. You'll also learn safe draping practices, effective client communication, professional ethics, and how to take care of yourself as a therapist. By the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to work with clients and deliver a complete, full-body therapeutic session from your very first day.
Prerequisite: Acceptance into the program and a High School Diploma are required
View SyllabusAFSM-BAP-102
You’ll study all 11 body systems in a practical way, including the muscular, skeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems. The focus stays on how this knowledge directly improves your hands-on work. You'll develop safe and effective techniques through anatomy-informed practice that sharpens both your assessment skills and your touch.
Prerequisite: Acceptance into the program and a High School Diploma are required
View SyllabusAFSM-PAT-104
This essential training prepares you to work with clients who have complex health histories. You’ll learn how to spot red flags and contraindications, adjust your techniques to keep sessions safe, and communicate clearly with both clients and healthcare professionals.
Prerequisite: Acceptance into the program and a High School Diploma are required
View SyllabusCareer Paths
Completing Level I prepares you to advance into Level II and pass the MBLEx licensing exam. Graduates go on to work in:
Private Practice
Build your own massage therapy business.Enjoy the freedom to be your own boss, set your schedule, and build a loyal client base while creating a sustainable and rewarding career.
Support PT
Work alongside physical‑therapy teams.Make a real difference in patients’ recovery journeys by providing essential hands-on care that complements physical therapy treatments.
Chiropractic Care
Integrate bodywork into care plans.Expand your skillset by working as a trusted partner with chiropractors, helping improve patient mobility and reduce pain through expert bodywork.
Spa & Wellness
Provide services in luxury spas or resorts.Step into a relaxing and luxurious work environment where you can promote overall health and stress relief while working with diverse clientele.
Professional Affiliations
Approved & Trusted
State Requirements
Find Your Licensing Path
Planning to train in Virginia and practice elsewhere? Our interactive map highlights each state’s licensing hours and shows how our programs align with those requirements. You’ll also see if additional electives are needed for your path.
Where Can I Practice?Student Testimonials
Supportive instruction, hands-on training, and real career confidence.
“The hands-on training made everything click. I felt prepared and supported from day one.”
“Small classes and real feedback helped me improve fast. The instructors genuinely care.”
“Career support was practical and clear. I left with confidence and a plan.”
What you’ll get
Hours & Contact
Our team is here to help you find the path that fits you best.
Hours
Open daily 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
For admissions or appointments, call us at (757) 340-7132 or contact us online.
Visit Us
Conveniently located off I-264.
Virginia Beach, VA 23452