Policies

Program Policies

Massage Program Policies and Student Expectations

Review the key policies that guide attendance, academic progress, dress code, conduct, make-up time, program completion, and student responsibilities at Advanced Fuller School of Massage.

These guidelines help students understand what is expected before class begins and how to stay in good standing throughout the program.

Attendance Standards Review how tardiness, absences, make-up time, and probation are handled.
Graduation Requirements Understand the hours, coursework, evaluations, attendance, and standing needed to complete the program.

Core Policy Areas

Attendance Standards
Academic Progress
Dress & Conduct
Grievance Procedure

Professional Standards

Attendance and Tardiness

Attendance expectations help students stay on track, complete required hours, and build professional habits.

Attendance Rules
  • TardyArriving 5 or more minutes late.
  • Absence TriggerArriving 15 minutes late, or three tardies, counts as one unexcused absence.
  • ProbationThree unexcused absences may result in probation.
Missed Time
  • Make-Up WindowMissed time should be completed within two weeks unless another schedule is approved.
  • NotificationStudents should notify the office if they will be absent.
  • DocumentationExtended absences may require supporting documentation.
Tardy5 or more minutes late
Absence Trigger15 minutes late or three tardies
Probation RiskThree unexcused absences

Policy Details

Academic Progress, Conduct, and Program Standards

Review the standards that support steady progress, professional conduct, and successful program completion.

Academic Progress

Satisfactory Academic Progress and Probation

  • Progress is evaluated through quizzes, practical assessments, professionalism, and attendance.
  • If progress falls below expectations, a written improvement plan will be created with your instructor.
  • Probation may be issued in writing for attendance, academic, or conduct concerns. The duration is determined by the Director.
  • Continued violations or failure to meet required milestones may result in dismissal.

Program Operations

Leave, Classroom Access, Essential Skills, and Graduation

Leave of Absence
  • Temporary LeaveA leave of up to four classes may be granted for documented reasons.
  • Return PlanMissed coursework must be completed within two weeks of returning.
  • Possible FeesTutorial or make-up fees may apply when additional support is needed.
Classroom Access Hours
  • Practice AccessThe main classroom is typically available for supervised practice.
  • Typical HoursAccess is generally available from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Schedule ChangesAvailability may change for holidays, workshops, or facility updates.
Essential Skills and Conduct
  • Physical ReadinessMassage therapy requires stamina and the ability to apply sustained pressure.
  • Body MechanicsStudents must use safe, effective movement during hands-on work.
  • Professional BoundariesClear communication and scope-of-practice boundaries are required.
Graduation Requirements
  • 625 HoursComplete the Advanced Program within two years.
  • CourseworkFinish Level 1 coursework and Level 2 elective training.
  • Academic StandardEarn at least 75% and pass required practical evaluations.
  • AttendanceMeet attendance requirements and complete make-up hours.

Resolution and Calendar

Grievance Procedure and Holiday Schedule

Student Grievance Procedure

How concerns are handled

Students should first attempt to resolve concerns with faculty or school administration. If the issue is not resolved, a formal written grievance may be submitted. No adverse action will be taken against any student who files a complaint in good faith.

State Council of Higher Education for Virginia:
101 North 14th Street, 10th Floor, James Monroe Building
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Phone: (804) 225-2600
Website: schev.edu
If a holiday falls on a regular class day, the program is scheduled in advance on Friday so students do not lose instructional hours. Holiday dates are announced annually and may be adjusted for workshops, clinical sessions, or facility needs.

Help

Frequently Asked Questions

How many tardies equal an absence?
Arriving 15 minutes late, or accumulating three tardies, counts as one unexcused absence.
What happens if I fall behind in coursework?
A written improvement plan will be created. Students must complete missed coursework, exams, and practical evaluations to return to good standing. Continued issues may lead to probation or dismissal.
Are uniforms required?
No. Students must follow a professional dress code, including short-sleeve collared shirts. Refer to the Program Catalog for full details.
How do I submit a grievance to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia?
Attempt to resolve the concern with school staff first. If unresolved, submit a written complaint using the contact information provided or through schev.edu.
Consumer Notes

What to keep in mind

  • Program policies should be reviewed alongside enrollment, tuition, forms, and official disclosure information.
  • Attendance, academic progress, conduct, and make-up time expectations can affect program completion.
  • The official catalog, enrollment agreement, policies, and disclosures remain the governing sources.
  • Students should speak with the school director before making enrollment decisions.
Plan Your Program

Review policies alongside enrollment, tuition, forms, and disclosures.

Use the enrollment and program overview pages to understand enrollment steps, schedule expectations, student responsibilities, and official catalog requirements before making enrollment decisions.