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HLT42021

Certificate IV in Massage Therapy

Open up a career in massage therapy with this hands-on course and get the skills you need to work as a qualified massage therapist.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Darling Downs and South West
WAYS TO STUDY On campus
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 28 Jan 2025 Duration: 6 months View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Full Fee

This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

$8,565

Course overview

Launch your career in massage therapy with this entry-level course. This qualification will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to start your career as a qualified massage therapist.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, the number of people working as massage therapists has experienced very strong growth and is expected to continue over the coming years.

In this practical course you'll learn how to establish and manage professional relationships with clients, determine massage treatment options, and provide massage treatments using a range of techniques. You'll also cover essential industry skills including providing first aid and managing workplace health and safety. 

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work as a massage therapist. You'll also have the foundation knowledge required to continue with further studies in this field. 

What can I do?

  • Massage Therapist

Course outcome:

HLT42021 Certificate IV in Massage Therapy

Industry-embedded teachers

Our teaching staff are at the top of their game and are still heavily involved in the industry. This means you're being taught by people who know what employers are looking for and where the sector is headed.

Learning support

We have numerous support services if you need an extra hand. The Learning Skills Centre, located in most campus libraries, is a drop-in service staffed by experienced teachers who can help with basic and complex skills. Studiosity is an online after hours tutoring service focusing on writing, research and referencing, as well as subject-specific questions.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 3 elective units from the list below. 

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • CHCCOM006
    Establish and manage client relationships
    UNIT CODE :
    CHCCOM006
    Unit description :

    This unit describes the skills and knowledge to establish and manage professional on-to-one relationships with clients in the context of providing an ongoing health service or intervention.

  • UNIT NAME
  • Establish and manage client relationships

  • UNIT CODE
  • CHCDIV001
    Work with diverse people
    UNIT CODE :
    CHCDIV001
    Unit description :

    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

  • UNIT NAME
  • Work with diverse people

  • UNIT CODE
  • CHCLEG003
    Manage legal and ethical compliance
    UNIT CODE :
    CHCLEG003
    Unit description :

    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to research information about compliance and ethical practice responsibilities, and then develop and monitor policies and procedures to meet those responsibilities.

  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage legal and ethical compliance

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTAAP002
    Confirm physical health status
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTAAP002
    Unit description :

    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to obtain and interpret information about client health status and to check a client's physical health. It requires a detailed knowledge of anatomy and physiology.

  • UNIT NAME
  • Confirm physical health status

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTINF004
    Manage the prevention and control of infection
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTINF004
    Unit description :

    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop, implement and monitor infection prevention and control systems and procedures in work contexts where health and personal care services are provided.

  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage the prevention and control of infection

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTMSG009
    Develop massage practice
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTMSG009
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to establish the foundations of massage practice and its place in the Australian health care system, identify and provide appropriate information about massage to different audiences, develop own approach to massage practice and evaluate what makes a sustainable practice.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Develop massage practice

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTMSG010
    Assess client massage needs
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTMSG010
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to gather client information, make a client assessment and determine massage treatment options.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Assess client massage needs

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTMSG011
    Provide massage treatments
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTMSG011
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to prepare for and provide massage treatments using a range of relaxation techniques and sequences.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Provide massage treatments

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTMSG012
    Apply relaxation massage clinical practice
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTMSG012
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to undertake relaxation massage consultations in a clinical setting. This includes provision of relaxation massage treatments, as well as clinic preparation for consultation, client assessment and monitoring of client during treatment. It incorporates understanding of industry practices and professional development opportunities for massage therapists.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Apply relaxation massage clinical practice

  • UNIT CODE
  • HLTWHS004
    Manage work health and safety
    UNIT CODE :
    HLTWHS004
    Unit description :

    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to establish, maintain and evaluate work health and safety (WHS) policies, procedures and programs in the relevant work area, according to WHS legislative requirements.

  • UNIT NAME
  • Manage work health and safety

Ways to study
  • You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Springfield
On campus with some online
28 Jan 2025
6 months
Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
Monday, Tuesday
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Springfield

On campus with some online

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    20%
  • On Campus Time
    80%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
Monday, Tuesday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online, On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Springfield
On campus with some online
14 Jul 2025
6 months
Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Springfield

On campus with some online

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    20%
  • On Campus Time
    80%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online, On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Toowoomba
On campus with some online
28 Jan 2025
6 months
Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
Monday, Tuesday
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Toowoomba

On campus with some online

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    20%
  • On Campus Time
    80%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
Monday, Tuesday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online, On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Toowoomba
On campus with some online
14 Jul 2025
6 months
Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Toowoomba

On campus with some online

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    20%
  • On Campus Time
    80%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 1 virtual class and 1 practical day on campus per week plus self-directed learning
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Full fee: $8,565

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

Online, On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Certificate IV in Massage Therapy (HLT42021)

Ask a question

Certificate IV in Massage Therapy

COURSE CODE: HLT42021
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication, however you need to have sound literacy and numeracy skills and a proficient level of English.

Resources required

You will need to provide the following items for your personal use during the learning periods:

  • A black polo shirt will be required when we deliver our clinic period
  • Shorts, knee length skirt or long pants (black preferable due to oil spillage)
  • Closed-in shoes (no thongs, open sandals or bare feet allowed) – sneakers preferred
  • Suitable/comfortable clothing for massage practice (as a client)
  • 2 large bath sheet sized towels, solid colours
  • 2 normal bath size towels
  • 1 or 2 hand towel sized
  • 1 face-washer sized (optional)
  • Massage oil dispenser bottle, plastic pump type, 500ml or smaller
  • Writing materials
  • USB key

Access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online systems, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for students to use at a number of TAFE Queensland locations.

There are no required texts for this course, however the following book is highly recommended:  

Title: Muscle Manual Textbook
By Dr Nikita Vizniak
Publisher: Prohealthsys
ISBN: 9780973274226

Important information

If a you have a criminal record, or are not eligible to hold a blue card, this will not preclude enrolment at TAFE Queensland. However, it will preclude membership into industry associations and subsequently holding professional indemnity or public liability insurance.

Blue Card
To successfully satisfy all course requirements you will be required to apply for a Blue Card (working with children check). Learn More

Please note: TAFE Queensland wishes to warn you, as a Blue Card applicant, that it is an offence for a disqualified person to sign a Blue Card application.  For further information regarding 'disqualified' persons, please contact Blue Card Services.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more