Your future success in the medical field hinges upon your selection of a first-class health education program. Whether you are pursuing a career as a medical assistant or a massage therapist, it is up to you as a prospective student to carefully evaluate health education programs.
Identifying the Top Massage Therapy Programs in the United States
With hundreds of programs available in the United States, the task of choosing the best massage therapy program can seem like an overwhelming task. Fortunately, there is a simple and effective way to identify the best health care education programs in the country. Selecting a program with accreditation is the best way to ensure that you receive a high-quality education that will prepare you to excel as a healthcare professional.
What Are the Key Challenges for Prospective Students?
Choosing a first-rate massage therapy program in Illinois requires time and care. With program costs averaging $6,000 to $10,000, it is vital that prospective students select a school that fulfills all of their educational requirements and addresses their top challenges. Below are some of the key challenges facing prospective students:
- Securing the money needed to cover tuition and related school costs
- Choosing a school that adheres to the highest ethical standards
- Meeting the requirements for certification or licensure
- Receiving an appropriate level of support and guidance from instructors and staff
- Finding a school with an excellent reputation
- Obtaining gainful employment after completing program requirements
How to Address Key Challenges by Attending an Accredited School
The surest way to quell the common student anxieties listed above is to choose a school that is accredited by a national organization such as the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). ABHES-accredited schools are held to the highest set of academic standards and are readily recognized within healthcare communities across the United States. Below are a dozen reasons why prospective students should choose an ABHES-accredited school:
1) Increased eligibility for financial aid.
ABHES-accredited schools are recognized as Title IV schools by the U.S. Department of Education. They are therefore often able to offer Federal Financial Aid that non-accredited schools are not eligible to offer.
2) Outstanding graduation rates.
Achieving high graduation rates is a top goal of accredited schools. Students can enroll in an ABHES-accredited school knowing that they will receive a comprehensive education and ongoing support from instructors and other staff.
3) Accomplished educators.
When undergoing initial accreditation evaluations, one of the key factors that evaluators consider is the competency of the school’s faculty and staff. Instructors at accredited schools must meet minimum competency guidelines to help ensure that students are educated and trained by experienced professionals.
4) A robust curriculum.
ABHES-accredited schools must exhibit excellence and consistency in instructional materials and training. All training equipment must be high-quality and students must have access to externship facilities.
5) Excellent licensure passage rates.
A diploma carries little weight if a graduate is unable to pass a certification exam or complete licensure requirements. Accreditation is typically synonymous with high passage rates on licensure and certification exams, paving the way for a smooth, quick transition from school to full-time employment.
6) National recognition.
Accreditation by a national organization ensures that graduating students have a diploma that is recognized anywhere in the United States. While certification and licensure requirements may vary from state to state, prospective students can enjoy the peace of mind that comes along with graduation from a recognized school.
7) Increased ability to find a job after graduation.
Perhaps the greatest benefit of attending an accredited school is the ease with which employment can be secured after successful program completion. Accrediting organizations such as ABHES offer conferences and workshops to help accredited schools remain up to date on employment trends and industry innovation.
8) The ability to transfer credits.
The ABHES recognizes the role of fair credit transfer policies. Accordingly, ABHES-accredited schools may accept credits earned at other accredited institutions recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDOE).
9) Impressive peers.
Accredited schools attract top talent from across the United States. Students train alongside peers who take their education seriously and who are driven to succeed as massage therapists. Training alongside peers with similar career goals helps to ensure that students make the most of their education, laying the foundation for career success.
10) Job placement support.
Student placement is a key priority for ABHES leaders. Accordingly, the standards set by ABHES enable students to graduate well-prepared to become massage therapists. Notably, graduates of ABHES-accredited schools have enjoyed success in the job market even during economic downturns.
11) Ongoing evaluations.
Accredited schools are subject to ongoing inspections and reviews to ensure that they are compliant with regulatory standards. Additionally, evaluators ensure that all training programs and equipment are high-quality. Any deficiencies discovered must be addressed and corrected swiftly according to accreditation guidelines.
12) Inspiring success stories.
One of the best indicators of a school’s performance is the inspiring student success stories that speak to the school’s ability to make a difference in the lives of students. The ABHES has a long list of accomplished graduates across the country who attribute their success to the ABHES-accredited school they attended.
Finalizing Your School Choice
Without a doubt, there are many advantages of choosing an accredited massage therapy program. From financial aid eligibility to increased ease securing a job, prospective students can enjoy many benefits of attending an ABHES-accredited school. As you finalize your school choice, remember that you can enhance your future career success as a massage therapist by selecting an accredited institution or program.