Search this site

diplomas

Shiatsu Massage School of California (smsc) diplomas are education programs offered to teach the basics of massage and extend the practical knowledge of a professional massage therapist. The diploma programs offered at smsc are unique in that they combine education with practical experience. The programs are based on courses in traditional training methods, where students learn to understand the value and power of touch. Shiatsu Anma is a form of acupressure touch therapy. Students are taught to understand the body’s map of meridian and pressure points, as well as how to develop a safe and efficient massage practice to increase their range as a healer. 

Certified Massage Diploma programs are offered to those who successfully complete all three of our consecutive programs: Certified Shiatsu-Anma Massage Technician (Beginner-Diploma A), Certified Shiatsu-Anma Massage Therapist (Intermediate-Diploma B), and Certified Shiatsu-Anma Specialist (Advanced-Diploma C). Up to 500 hours of professional massage training is available at the Shiatsu Massage School of California. Students who are committed to the 500-hour diploma program can expect to graduate within 3-9 months, at a rate of $10 per hour of class. Our school is also certified to provide M1 Visas to qualifying International students. 

Students interested in careers as certified local massage practitioners will discover the fundamentals and practical applications of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese acupressure massage (Shiatsu) at smsc. All diplomas include hands on massage practice, Anma-Doin (self-healing art), traditional Chinese medical theory, applied functional anatomy and physiology, and business, ethics, and legal practices specific to the massage therapy marketplace. The day-to-day operations of a massage career are taught in our Pain and Orthopedic Evaluation classes and Intern clinics, both of which are essential for diploma completion. 

During its history, smsc has graduated thousands of well-trained Shiatsu-Anma practitioners for the massage industry. Many of them now have their own private practices and see clients part and full-time. A number of practitioners also work for chiropractors, acupuncturists, spas, gyms, corporations, beauty salons, and other established businesses - even our clinic! Some of our graduates choose to work only on their families and friends.

Most of our students apply their education towards their individual lives after the program, whether the courses are taken for professional training or for personal development. Massage in general has gained a wider recognition among the American public in the last three decades. Anma therapy has been practiced successfully in China, Japan, and Korea for more than 2,000 years. Our school provides versatile programs in the field of oriental bodywork from simple individual classes for personal growth to an extensive curriculum for professionals. Classes are available weekdays, weeknights and weekends.

For information about when these courses are offered, please see upcoming schedule.