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New Zealand Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage (Level 5)

Prepare for a career as a wellness and relaxation massage therapist.

Relaxation massage uses soothing techniques to calm the mind and stimulate the body to release positive hormones such as dopamine and endorphins.

This qualification will equip you to provide wellness and relaxation massage therapy services within the health sector and massage therapy industry.

You’ll learn about the anatomical, physiological and basic chemical concepts of the body and application methods to perform a full body massage treatment. You’ll also learn a range of professional, self-management and communication skill required to meet client and industry needs. In addition, you’ll gain an understanding of the psychological effects of massage and the health, activity and nutritional aspects of professional massage treatments.

Learning takes place in a real-world industry environment and includes clinical practice hours during which you’ll apply and refine your massage techniques.

Fees for 2024

Domestic Fee
$6,768 - $7,627 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$350 per year

NCEA Level 2 or equivalent

  • OR an NZQA recognised qualification in massage therapy, level 4 or above

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

  • If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
  • Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.

The New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) (Pre Health pathway) may provide alternative entry to this programme. Please contact Ara for further information

Consent to Disclosure of Information: You will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form. The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to Ara.

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.

  • Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
  • If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
  • If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
  • IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
  • What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
  • You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic

  • 5.0 Listening
  • 5.0 Reading
  • 5.0 Writing
  • 5.0 Speaking

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Find out more

Career opportunities

This diploma qualifies you to work as a relaxation massage therapist in a broad range of settings - from community-based health and wellness centres to day spas and multi-disciplinary clinics – or you could become a self-employed therapist with your own home-based or mobile practice.

Study pathways

Upon completion of this course, you can continue your studies with a New Zealand Diploma in Remedial Massage (Level 6) and then progress to a Bachelor of Musculoskeletal Health (Level 7). Alternatively, you could complement your skills with additional training in aromascience, reflexology or beauty therapy.

New Zealand Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage (Level 5)

FULL-TIME - 1 Year

Prepare for a career as a wellness and relaxation massage therapist.

Information
Type Diploma
Code NZ2740
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
Credits 120
Level 5
May be eligible for Fees Free? Yes
Reference NZ2740-STRU

Fees for 2024

Domestic Fee
$6,768 - $7,627 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$350 per year

Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme, but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated from COVID-19 before allowing you to complete work at their organisation.

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With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

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Documents

Area of Interest

Key Information for Students

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