Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Trusted Massage Therapy School in Anamosa, IA
Carlson College of Massage Therapy has been dedicated to providing exceptional massage therapy education since 1984. Founded by Ruth Carlson and later acquired by graduate Chris Rider in 2008, our institution remains Iowa's first COMTA-accredited program. With over 1,200 graduates, we focus exclusively on massage therapy education, offering both full-time (6 months) and part-time (11.5 months) programs. Our curriculum combines Swedish massage foundations with advanced neuromuscular techniques, preparing students for successful careers in healthcare. Our experienced instructors, who are licensed massage therapists with decades of combined practice, ensure students receive hands-on training in a supportive environment.The 6,000-square-foot campus features modern classrooms and a student clinic simulating professional settings. With a 100% MBLEx pass rate for recent cohorts and federal financial aid availability, we prioritize accessible, high-quality education. Our hybrid program blends in-person and online learning, while community involvement through events like Special Olympics support demonstrates our commitment to holistic wellness. Located in a tranquil rural setting near Cedar Rapids, our school provides a unique educational retreat fostering both professional and personal growth.
Services
Massage Therapy Education
COMTA Accredited Programs
Flexible Scheduling
Student Clinic Experience
Continuing Education
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- Iowa's first COMTA-accredited massage therapy program
- 100% MBLEx pass rate for recent graduating classes
- Instructors with 80+ combined years of massage experience
- Hybrid learning combining in-person and scheduled online classes
- Student clinic simulating professional massage environments
Associations and certifications
- COMTA
What people say
Exceptional education
Supportive instructors
Successful career transition
Flexible scheduling
Strong industry preparation
Services
Massage Therapy Education
Our comprehensive massage therapy programs combine Swedish massage foundations with advanced neuromuscular techniques. Students gain hands-on experience through classroom instruction and a professional-style student clinic. The 600-hour curriculum prepares graduates for immediate employment in healthcare settings.
COMTA Accredited Programs
As Iowa's first COMTA-accredited program, we meet rigorous national standards for massage education. Accreditation ensures transferable credentials and eligibility for federal financial aid. Our graduates qualify for licensing in all 50 states.
Flexible Scheduling
Choose between full-time (6 months) or part-time (11.5 months) programs with day, evening, and Saturday classes. Hybrid learning options combine in-person instruction with scheduled online sessions for working professionals.
Student Clinic Experience
Our student clinic simulates real-world massage practice with supervised client sessions. Students provide $40 hourly massages to the public while developing professional skills in a supportive environment. All students benefit from this hands-on experience.
Continuing Education
We offer specialized continuing education courses for licensed therapists seeking skill enhancement. Classes cover advanced techniques like cupping, reiki, and lymphatic massage with CE hours awarded for full-day participation.
People
Chris Rider
President/Owner
Graduate and former faculty member Chris Rider purchased CCMT in 2008 after Ruth Carlson's retirement. With decades of massage therapy experience, he maintains daily involvement in instruction and administration.
Ruth Carlson
Founder
Ruth Carlson established Iowa's first massage therapy school in 1984. She operated CCMT until retirement in 2008, creating the foundation for its COMTA-accredited programs and industry reputation.
Questions
What massage therapy programs do you offer?
We offer full-time (6 months) and part-time (11.5 months) programs combining Swedish massage with rehabilitative techniques. Both options include classroom instruction and student clinic experience.
Are your programs accredited?
Yes, we're Iowa's first COMTA-accredited massage therapy program. Accreditation ensures quality education and eligibility for federal financial aid.
Do you offer financial assistance?
We provide Federal Student Aid to qualifying students and a no-interest payment plan. The Sugar Scholarship offers up to $1,000 toward tuition costs.
Can I visit the campus?
Yes, daily tours are available. Schedule a visit to explore our 6,000-square-foot facility, meet instructors, and observe classes in session.
What's your licensing exam pass rate?
Our graduates consistently exceed state and national averages. Recent cohorts achieved a 100% MBLEx pass rate before graduation.
Do you have a student clinic?
Yes, our student clinic offers $40 hourly massages to the public. Sessions occur during training months and provide hands-on experience under instructor supervision.
Reviews (5)
Jaclynn Oberbreckling
Jun 18, 2022
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Was a very wonderful experience! Very relaxing environment. I felt so at ease after my massage with Alyssa H. Highly recommend this place and especially her.
Gayle Robertson
Jun 11, 2022
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I love getting massages at Carlson College! The massage room is divided into several stations, with minimal whispered discussion allowed, making the atmosphere extremely peaceful and relaxing.
Patrick Callahan
May 17, 2022
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Carlson College does a great job of preparing their students for their new careers. Their students are prepared to "hit the ground running" as soon as the student clinic is in session. I would highly recommend the graduates of Carlson College.
Ramerra Lacey
May 26, 2021
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After looking into different massage therapy options in my local area, without a doubt CCMT was the perfect place for me. CCMT not only primarily focusing on massage itself won me over but also the scenic environment. It was beautiful for the six months I was there, peaceful, and the best place in my option to learn the craft. The instructors were wonderful, the hands on work was amazing :) (the best way I learned), and the material was just enough.
Between my peers and the instructors it did not take long for us all to feel like the closeness helped propel us into a family. I will ALWAYS and FOREVER cherish the moments at CCMT and the people I met there.
Between my peers and the instructors it did not take long for us all to feel like the closeness helped propel us into a family. I will ALWAYS and FOREVER cherish the moments at CCMT and the people I met there.
Foyht Fraise
Dec 12, 2020
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When I decided to goto massage therapy school I asked around. The answer was always Carlson. So I went to check them out, I did not schedule and appointment. The staff, instructors, and owner were super friendly and accommodating. I signed up and graduated 6 months later. Many places were willing to hire upon graduation, I chose to strike out on my own. They prepare you for whatever you choose. People recognize a Carlson massage! Highly recommend!
