Advanced Training in Hospital-Based Massage Therapy

The UCSF Osher Center Advanced Training in Hospital-Based Massage Therapy Program offers experienced massage therapists a year-long opportunity for hospital-based education and clinical experience. For information on hospital-based massage therapy, visit the Massage Therapy Foundation website. 

The program is distinguished by:

• Medical complexity of patients
• Variety of medical center settings, including in-patient and out-patient clinics
• Integration into healthcare teams
• Clinical supervision and peer support
• Research participation and skills development
• Certificates in hospital-based oncology, neurology, pediatrics, and palliative massage therapy

Outcomes:

• Preparation for employment in acute care settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice
• Skills and experience to work safely and effectively with medically complex clients/patients
• Research participation and publication opportunities
• Skills to develop new manual therapy services for hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings

Structure: 11 hours/week commitment.

• 50% - Direct patient care 
• 30% - Didactic
• 10% - Supervision
• 10% - Research

Eligibility: 

• California State Certification in Massage Therapy or board certification by the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
• Three years of at least half-time experience as a massage therapist or equivalent medical experience 
• Ability to process complex instructions required
• Familiarity with research preferred
• Contributions to community considered and preferred