Level 3 VTCT Certificate in Swedish Massage
This course is aimed at adults who wish to practice Swedish massage. The course will include a substantial amount of home study to meet the demands of the qualification. Students must be able to allocate time at home to complete these activities in addition to attending college one night a week and regular attendance each week is vital to ensure successful completion. The Level 3 Certificate in Swedish Massage is designed for students who wish to carry our professional massage in the health and beauty industry.
Students will learn the skills required to qualify as massage therapist at Level 3. Whilst lessons are predominantly practical based, there will be elements of theory covered during the sessions which will require further study at home. This qualification allows the student to learn, develop and practice the skills required to provide massage services.
Entry requirements
Students generally require a minimum of three GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4/D or higher to gain entry to the course. Mature students may be exempt from this requirement if they have appropriate work experience/life skills or additional qualifications.
An interest in the sector is necessary, experience in the health and beauty therapy industry is desirable but not necessary. An understanding of anatomy and physiology is advantageous.
Students will need to demonstrate enthusiasm and interest and have a genuine desire to both provide and receive body massage treatments. This course requires students to follow a strict dress code. For reasons concerned with health and safety students must tie up long hair (so that it is off the face and neck), remove all jewellery and piercings and keep nails short and product free. Certain medical conditions may be contraindicated to treatment (please seek further guidance from the tutor).
Course units
A range of modules to prepare you for working in a salon environment will be introduced, including:
- Health & safety
- Client consultation
- Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology for complementary therapies
- Provide body massage treatments
Assessments
A variety of assessment methods are used throughout this course including:
- Observation of practical skills
- Oral questioning to check understanding
- Portfolio of evidence – showing all the treatments that have been completed
- Online tests for each unit
Please note - the College will not be able to provide all the clients for this course, students are expected to be able to provide some of their own. Students are expected to work on a diverse range of clients.
Course fees
£941
The fees for this course can vary depending on funding eligibility and loan availability, if you feel you may qualify for funding, or wish to discuss loan options, please contact the Funding Team.
Course progression
Successful completion of this Level 3 Swedish Massage course opens up the opportunity to study on a variety of other higher-level qualifications such as:
- Level 3 Beauty Therapy
- Level 3 Reflexology
- Level 4 Salon Management - available to study at York College University Centre
Dates & course durations
September 2024, date tbc.
Study methods
Tutor input and demonstrations are followed by practical application of skills and knowledge. Students are required to work in pairs, practicing the treatments and developing skills until they are ready to work on models and clients. Assignments, work packages and portfolio-building are an integral part of the programme and home study is vital for completion of theory work.
Facilities
York College have 3 large fully equipped hairdressing salons, an inviting commercial salon reception, 2 media make-up workshops and 3 beauty therapy salons. Adult learners will have access to professional products and equipment (including Loreal and Eve Taylor).
Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and helpdesk advice.
Additional costs
Students are generally required to purchase a kit; however, we are currently reviewing this situation.
All students will be required to wear a uniform. The full details of this will be provided closer to the time of enrolment.
As this course requires additional study from home, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access teaching and learning.
Career progression
You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge for employment as a massage therapist in a salon/spa environment. Some adult learners choose to work independently as a mobile therapist.