Business Details
39 Years
experience
700-Hour Massage Therapy Program in Sioux Falls, SD
Founded in 1987, the South Dakota School Of Massage has been dedicated to providing comprehensive education in massage therapy for over three decades. Our program emphasizes a holistic approach to learning, combining technical skills with personal growth and community building. With a student-teacher ratio of 4:1, we ensure individualized instruction that fosters both professional competence and personal development. Our curriculum, approved by the South Dakota Board of Massage Therapy, includes 700 hours of training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and various massage techniques. The school's philosophy is rooted in the one-room schoolhouse concept, promoting a nurturing environment where students develop a deep understanding of their craft.Our faculty consists of experienced professionals actively engaged in the field, bringing real-world expertise to the classroom. We maintain high ethical standards and continuously evaluate our programs to ensure excellence in education. Our graduates receive a Certificate of Completion, preparing them for successful careers in massage therapy. The school relocated to a historic building in Sioux Falls in 2019, providing a modern, well-equipped facility for hands-on learning. We remain committed to evolving with industry standards while preserving the core values that have guided us since our founding.
Services
700-Hour Massage Program
Swedish Massage Training
Foot Reflexology Techniques
Heated Stone Therapy
Student Clinic Internship
Anatomy & Physiology Courses
Pathology Studies
Business Skills for Therapists
Sports Massage Training
Licensure Preparation
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer a 700-hour program with hands-on clinical training
- Our faculty includes licensed therapists with industry experience
- Small class sizes ensure personalized instruction and feedback
- Holistic curriculum integrates anatomy, pathology, and therapeutic techniques
- Graduates receive certificate of completion for state licensure
Services
700-Hour Massage Program
Our comprehensive 700-hour program prepares students for massage therapy licensure through hands-on training in Swedish techniques, clinical application, and combined therapies. Students study anatomy, physiology, pathology, and ethics while gaining practical experience through internships and student clinics. The program includes specialized training in reflexology, heated stone therapy, and sports massage techniques.
Student Clinic Internship
Students complete 50 hours of supervised internship at approved sites and participate in on-campus student clinics. This hands-on experience allows them to practice various massage techniques on the public under instructor supervision, developing practical skills in client assessment and treatment planning while building professional confidence.
Foot Reflexology Techniques
Our reflexology course teaches students about the body's reflex points in the feet and proper pressure application techniques. Students learn to create complete foot reflexology treatments by integrating historical theory with modern practice, understanding how specific points relate to different organs and body systems for holistic healing.
Heated Stone Therapy
This specialized training covers the use of heated basalt stones for therapeutic massage. Students learn proper temperature control, stone placement techniques, and safety protocols while understanding the physiological benefits of combining heat therapy with traditional massage techniques for enhanced relaxation and healing.
Business Skills for Therapists
Our business course equips massage therapists with essential skills for establishing and managing their practice. Topics include legal requirements, business planning, accounting practices, documentation procedures, and professional integrity, providing students with the knowledge needed to successfully operate their own massage therapy business.
People
Daniel Jensen
Professor Emeritus
Licensed massage therapist with expertise in anatomy and physiology. Holds a BA in Exercise Physiology and has studied fascia science, cadaver studies, and biomechanics. Contributing author to 'Chicken Soup for the Travelers Soul' and accomplished endurance athlete.
Rebecca Herrmann
President & Director
Licensed massage therapist since 2001 with a BBA in Business Management. Specializes in Swedish, prenatal, and reflexology techniques. Graduated from SDSMT and now leads the school while maintaining active industry involvement through various massage modalities.
Sierra Tschetter
Instructor
Licensed massage therapist with diverse healthcare experience. Trained in multiple modalities including deep tissue and neuromuscular techniques. Former supervisor of a supported living facility and certified permanent makeup artist specializing in microblading techniques for eyebrows.
Dr. Rylan Pearson
Chiropractor
Chiropractic graduate from Palmer College with personal experience overcoming physical challenges. Amputee advocate and adaptive sports enthusiast. Active in local business community as Chamber of Commerce volunteer diplomat and Business Resource Network board member.
Questions
What are the admission requirements for the massage therapy program?
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent, good health, and physical/mental capability to perform massage therapy. The application process includes submitting transcripts, references, and a personal statement with a $100 non-refundable fee.
How long does the massage therapy program take to complete?
The 700-hour program takes approximately 8 months to complete, with classes held Mondays and Tuesdays from 8:00am-5:30pm and Wednesdays from 8:00am-12:00pm.
What licensing assistance does the school provide?
We assist students with MBLEX exam registration and state licensure applications. Graduates receive a certificate of completion to apply for licensure in South Dakota and other states with qualifying requirements.
What payment options are available for tuition?
Tuition can be paid in two equal installments with 50% due before each semester. Payment options include cash, check, or credit card (with a 3.5% + $0.15 transaction fee).
What financial assistance options exist for students?
The school offers veterans benefits, vocational rehabilitation approval, and assistance finding local financial resources. Students may also qualify for personal financial assistance from banks, charities, or employers.
What does the massage therapy curriculum include?
The curriculum covers Swedish massage, reflexology, heated stone therapy, sports massage, and chair massage techniques. It includes 376 hours of health basics, 40 hours of pathology, and 6 hours of ethics training.
