Marjorie MillerMany people interested in wellness careers often struggle with one important question: Where should I begin my training? With so many programs available, it can be difficult to know which schools provide the right balance of hands-on experience.
When I first explored massage therapy education, I discovered the flexibility of the career path. Some graduates pursue long-term careers as massage therapists, while others apply to aesthetic clinics or wellness spas.
To make your search easier, here’s a curated list of the best massage schools in Jacksonville known for their strong training programs and successful graduate outcomes.
How much do massage therapy programs cost in Jacksonville?
Massage therapy programs in Jacksonville typically cost between $6,000 and $12,000, depending on the school, program length, and included certifications. Many schools offer financial aid or scholarships to help manage tuition costs.
1. Alpha School of Massage
Address: 4642 San Juan Ave, FL 32210
Contact: +1 904 389 9117
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
I would hear that the best massage schools have a long track record, and Alpha School of Massage fits that perfectly. Operating since 1992, they bring over 30 years of experience in the field.
They offer online and in-person programs, which makes learning convenient. Alpha is also approved by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, the Florida Board of Massage, and the Georgia Board of Massage.
Tuition is affordable. The 650-hour and 501-hour advanced massage therapy programs are only under $2,000 ($149/month after enrollment). Both can be completed in under 20 weeks and are still thousands of dollars cheaper than competitors.
A notable instructor, Robert Serafine, graduated from Alpha in 2016. He’s skilled in neuromuscular and deep tissue, and has been active in the FSMTA as a Sports Massage Chairman.
One downside I see here is that the school doesn’t clearly offer placement support. This is important for new graduates needing additional training.
The price is great and the students are taught well
“This is my first time coming to Alpha Massage School and I WILL BE BACK!
I’ve gotten massages for a few years as part of my treatment for a car accident and yet there were still some massage techniques used today that were new to me and felt GREAT!
I got a massage from Sarah who was an absolute delight! I had arrived late, so I assumed the massage would be shorter but she willingly took the FULL 60 MIN. She even educated me on common reasons for aches & pains in the areas we worked on. Overall, absolutely wonderful experience.
The price is great, the students are taught well, my muscles feel great, and it was a very clean and comfortable.
I’ll be recommending Sarah to anyone and everybody, but this massage school as a whole gave me a great experience.”
- Nataly Figueroa, Google Review
They are always ready to hear you out
“Went today with hubby. The over all environment was inviting and nice. The front desk clerk for the day was welcoming when first entering, everything looked neat and tidy. I got to work with Shelby who was attentive, kind, and soothing overall her demeanor was professional, fun, and always making sure I was comfortable. The massage was relaxing and overall Shelby did amazing work! The students always make sure to ask what areas you’d like to focus on, what type of pressure, and what areas feel best. Don’t be afraid to speak up either! They are always ready to hear you out!”
- Dakota Wilson, Google Review
2. Parisian Spa Institute
Address: 1045 Riverside Ave Ste. 200, FL 32204
Contact: +1 904 350 9796
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
I have to admit, the Parisian Spa Institute (PSI) caught my attention. With the busy pace of life, having a school that has flexible learning options is a plus.
PSI offers a 600-hour massage therapy program with both in-person and hybrid virtual classes. This is convenient if you need to balance school with other commitments.
Tuition totals $8,950, and new students can apply for a $1,500 ACE Grant. This helps make schooling more affordable compared to others.
I truly value that the institute is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. They are also licensed by the Florida Commission of Independent Education, which shows their dedication to quality programs.
Another feature is that PSI is approved for VA training, Post-9/11 GI Bill, and MyCAA. Additionally, they are approved for Florida Prepaid and Bright Futures.
One downside is that they don’t offer advanced hands-on spa internships. This can be important for building real-world experience before graduation.
They care so much about the success of each student
“New Graduate here !!! I just want to give a huge shout out to the entire staff at Parisian Spa, down to every instructor and office administrator!!
I truly loved my experience here at school. They care so much about the success of each student, everyone is kind and encouraging. The instructors are very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking to get into the field of cosmetology, esthetician, massage, nail technician & more. I met lots of great friends in the time that I was there that made my experience even more memorable. School was so fun that it made my time there go by so quickly over all 10/10❕”
- Somally Rickerson, Google Review
I learned so much and made so many great connections
“I had a great experience as a student! Ms. Carla and Ms. Erika both are extremely knowledgeable teachers. Ms. Z and Ms. Diana in admin are so helpful, funny, and sweet. I even took a few advanced courses like the Brazilian and Gel-X. Ms. Erika taught the Brazilian wax class in a professional and comfortable environment. Ms. Dana taught the Gel-X, and it was very informative. She even helped with tips and guidance after the course. I learned so much and made so many great connections and friendships. I highly recommend this school.”
- Rose Kendall, Google Review
3. Massage Therapy Academy
Address: 353 6th Ave S, FL 32250
Contact: +1 904 993 0900
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
At Massage Therapy Academy, I was impressed by how structured their programs are.
They emphasize hands-on learning and practical skills by only allowing in-person lectures. Purely online instruction can be lacking, especially when it comes to massage techniques.
Their 575-hour massage therapy program has a total tuition of $7,500. You also need to pay $150 for enrollment and $425 for books and supplies. This brings the total investment to $8,075, which is fairly affordable for a full program.
I also appreciate that Massage Therapy Academy offers a diverse range of advanced continuing education (CE) courses.
These are led by Teresa Matthews, a National CE Provider. Whether it’s myofascial release or deep tissue therapy, there’s always an option to refine your skills and grow professionally.
My only gripe? The school doesn’t offer hybrid sessions. This can be difficult for students balancing other commitments or those who simply want to try which setup fits them best.
The environment in the school is relaxed
“I am a graduate of MTA. The school offers a great learning experience. As a student at MTA you are taught, hands on massage, ( almost immediately) academics and a great working environment. The school has you work alongside professional experienced LMT. Not only are the students taught how to give a professional thorough massage the environment in the school is relaxed friendly and educational.
Would highly recommend being a student and or getting a massage from any student at Massage Therapy Academy.”
- Bernadette Brittman, Google Review
Massages do not feel like you are getting a massage from a student
“The school has an amazing ambiance and the students are very knowledgeable. Their massages do not feel like you are getting a massage with a student but rather than a licensed massage therapist! I would definitely recommend this place!”
- Veronica Regalado, Google Review
4. Athletic & Therapeutic Massage Therapy (ATMT)
Address: 2008 Riverside Ave, Suite 102A, FL 32204
Contact: +1 904 892 3899
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Before enrolling in a massage program, it’s important to know the school’s credibility, and Athletic & Therapeutic Massage Therapy (ATMT) checks that box.
The firm is a member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), which adds a layer of professional assurance for students looking to launch a career in massage therapy.
ATMT offers training and services in a wide range of techniques. These include Lipo/TT massage, wood therapy, and fibrosis after liposuction. They also offer RF, ultrasound, and cellulite blaster.
This variety is excellent for students who want exposure to multiple specialties before graduating, giving them a competitive edge in the industry.
The school emphasizes hands-on learning, ensuring students gain practical skills they can apply when they start working after graduation.
Unfortunately, ATMT doesn’t clearly list program pricing on the website. This can make it harder to plan financially before enrolling, and students may need to contact the school directly for full details.
I highly recommend her to anyone looking for post-operative care
“Miranda is literally the best! She knows her stuff when it comes to lymphatic drainage massages and has not only been very professional but also very kind. She puts me in a great mood just being around her and after major plastic surgery everyone knows how hard that can be some days. So, I am very grateful for her services and her company and conversation during my massages. She is thorough and has given me so much advice and reassurance throughout my healing process. Booking was easy as well. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for post operative care.
Positive: Communication, Quality, Professionalism”
- Malaea Robidart, Google Review
Extremely knowledgeable
“Had Lymphatic Drainage Massage by Miranda and it was just what my body needed. She catered to my specific needs and wants. She’s extremely knowledgeable in her craft. So if you’ve had lipo suction or any body work and live in the Jacksonville area her amazing hands are exactly what you need. I’ve also received body sculpting, sauna wraps and weekly full body massages. I’ve always left her office relaxed and satisfied with her work.”
- Tamar Van Holten, Google Review
5. A Perfect Blend: Mind Body Spirit Wellness
Address: 2008 Riverside Ave #300, FL 32204
Contact: +1 386 289 1299
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
A Perfect Blend (APB) is a wellness education center that offers specialized training in holistic therapies. I have to admit, their program instantly caught my eye.
Here, their approach combines pain-free deep-tissue massage, energy work, aromatherapy, and more. I also value that the school is FSMTA-certified, which ensures professional standards.
A Perfect Blend even offers a variety of continuing education classes and live courses. These include Himalayan hot stone massage, scalp and face massage, and essential oils, among others. This is excellent for skill development, if you ask me.
Just take note that they don’t offer a 500+ hour foundational massage therapy program.
Nonetheless, the owner, Amber, brings a wealth of experience and expertise. She holds certifications in meditation, sound healing, and Reiki instruction. She’s also been an NCBTMB-approved provider since 2018, focusing on multidimensional therapeutic relaxation.
She obviously knows her craft, and actually is an instructor
“I had an in-home massage from Amber. It was just what I needed for relaxation and low back pain. It’s hard to put into words, but she knows what she is doing. She knows how to “listen” to your muscles to determine what is needed. She obviously knows her craft, and actually is an instructor at a local massage school. I highly recommend her without reservation.”
- Troy Harris, Google Review
She is knowledgeable in many different modalities
“Amber Lester is such a talented massage therapist. She is knowledgeable in many different modalities. I felt like a new person after receiving a massage from her. I have also learned that she is a highly educated instructor. If you need any type of therapeutic touch or need continuing education as a massage therapist you need to call Amber!”
- Tanya Bridgeman, Google Review
