Hands-On Massage Therapy School in Chicago, Illinois
Train to Become a Clinical Massage Therapist
Clinical Massage Training Built Around Real-World Experience
Build practical skills through Soma’s 600-clock-hour diploma program, with supervised clinical experience, flexible schedules and career support through a job board for licensed graduates.
The Soma Institute is an ACCET-accredited massage therapy school in downtown Chicago offering a 600-clock-hour Clinical Massage Therapy Diploma Program and continuing education for massage professionals.
Soma takes a clinical-first approach to massage therapy education. You will learn how to assess client needs and apply techniques that support pain management, mobility, recovery and overall well-being. Classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice are integrated throughout the program, helping you build confidence working with real clients.
The daytime program can be completed in as little as 9 months,* with an evening and Saturday option available for students who need additional flexibility. Both schedules are designed to help you balance training with work, family and other commitments.
600 Clock Hours
Hands-On Diploma Training
As Little as 9 Months*
Daytime Program Option
Classes 2–3 Days Per Week
Flexible Schedule Options
Career Support That Continues After Graduation
Completing your training is only one part of starting a new career. Soma provides career guidance and maintains a proprietary job board for licensed graduates, featuring current massage therapy openings submitted by employers.
Explore opportunities in clinical, wellness and therapeutic settings while receiving support as you transition from training into the workforce.
Explore Graduate Career SupportWhat Sets The Soma Institute Apart?
Soma combines clinically focused massage therapy training with hands-on experience and support that continues beyond graduation.
Clinical-First, Hands-On Training
Build practical skills through classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice with real clients. Soma’s curriculum emphasizes assessment, clinical reasoning and techniques that address each client’s individual needs.
Daytime and Evening Training Options
Pursue your training without stepping away from everything else that matters. With daytime and evening/Saturday options that meet two or three days per week, Soma gives you a more manageable way to work toward your new career.
Free Tutoring and Academic Support
Access tutoring and academic support at no additional charge throughout your program. Soma’s tutors can help you review course material, prepare for exams and build confidence in challenging subjects.
Accredited Since 2003
The Soma Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a national accrediting agency. Soma also holds a Certificate of Approval to Operate from the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
About Soma
Learn what sets Soma apart as a massage therapy school in Chicago, including its clinical approach, downtown campus, accreditation and history.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Explore federal financial aid, grants, veterans educational benefits and financial counselling resources.
Admissions
Review the admissions requirements, learn what to expect and take the next step toward beginning your massage therapy training.
What Our Graduates Say
Hear from Soma graduates about the training, support and career possibilities they found after completing their education.
“Soma helped my career by giving me the training that I needed to put me in a position to succeed.”
Eliel Royster
Soma Graduate
Read Eliel’s Story →
“My education at Soma gave me the ability to be self-employed and self-sufficient.”
Ruta Green
Soma Graduate
Read Ruta’s Story →
“Soma has opened up so many doors for me. I can educate people to the extent that I get their trust.”
Sarah Ward
Soma Graduate
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“It was up to me to decide where I was going to take my career because I was not limited.”
Ruby Botello
Soma Graduate
Read Ruby’s Story →
Are You Massage Career Training Ready? Find Out! Take the Soma Institute "Massage Career Training Readiness Quiz"
This fun, online quiz takes 3-minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for. Get Your Massage Career Training Readiness score now
Prepare for Licensure: Exam and License Costs Covered
Soma’s support extends beyond completing your diploma. The Clinical Massage Therapy program includes preparation for the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), helping you build the knowledge and confidence to take the exam and apply for your Illinois massage therapy license.
Soma also covers the cost of the licensing exam and professional license, helping make your transition from training to licensure more manageable.
FAQs
What massage therapy program does Soma offer?
Explore Clinical Massage Therapy
How long does massage therapy school take at Soma?
Compare Class Schedules
Does Soma offer evening or weekend massage therapy classes?
View Schedule Options
Is The Soma Institute accredited?
Review Accreditations & Approvals
How does Soma help graduates prepare for massage therapy licensure?
Learn About the Diploma Program
Does Soma provide career support after graduation?
View Current Massage Therapy Job Openings
Is a Rewarding Career in Massage Therapy Right For You? Get More Info…
If you’re interested in learning more about careers in Massage Therapy and exploring whether the Soma Institute is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.
For immediate questions, call 312-939-2723.
*Program length when completed in normal time.