In both tiers students are required to attend an approved massage training program of at least 500 contact hours of training which includes at least 100 contact hours of anatomy and physiology. Anne Arundel Community College's massage program far exceeds those minimum requirements. In both tiers applicants are required to have passed the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).

The two tiers are as follows: 

• Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) are permitted to practice massage therapy anywhere. Only LMTs may practice in any healthcare setting. Examples of healthcare settings include doctors’ offices, clinics, hospitals, etc. LMTs may also take and give referrals to other healthcare practitioners.  Applicants for state certification must meet the additional qualification of having 60 credit hours in any subject from an approved school and which may include the credits from your massage training at AACC. 
• Registered Massage Practitioners (RMPs) may not practice in a healthcare setting but may practice in any other setting including private practice, spas, health clubs, gyms, etc. 

Learn specifics of Maryland's regulations for massage therapists at www.mdmassage.org.