5 Best Massage Schools in Calgary That Therapists Actually Recommend
My friend knows me as a huge fan of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. In fact, I visit one of the top acupuncture spots in the city on a monthly basis!
That’s why she asked me which massage school she should enrol in. She didn’t want a two-bit school that churned out certifications; her plan was to get into a prestigious school to learn from the best massage instructors.
So, together, we conducted extensive research and even a couple of interviews, too. She was able to choose a nice school and is now in the process of opening her own massage clinic.
For aspiring RMTs, don’t settle for less—here’s our list of the best massage schools in Calgary to help you succeed.
How much do massage schools charge in Calgary?
In Calgary, massage schools charge from 8,000 CAD to 25,000 CAD. The price depends on the program length, accreditation, and training hours.
1. CITCM Acupuncture & Massage Therapy Training
Address: Two Executive Place, 1824 Crowchild Trail NW
Phone: +1 403-520-5258
Business hours:
- Mon – Fri: 9 AM–6:30 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM
CITCM was founded in 2004 by Dr. Xia Cheng. They offer a blend of Western medical knowledge and Eastern wisdom via online theory and onsite practical training.
A popular massage course they offer is the WE Integrated Orthopedic Massage Program. You’ll learn standard massage techniques and mix them with Eastern modalities like Tui Na, cupping, and Gua Sha.
The results speak for themselves, as graduates enjoy a 100% employment success rate after finishing their studies. You can rest easy knowing you’ll be sought-after by top clinics in the city.
As a bonus, financial support is a priority here, with several acupuncture and massage scholarships available. In fact, there are over $10,000 awards given out annually!
Because of their prestige, slots for upcoming semesters tend to fill up incredibly quickly.
Truly thankful for introducing me to this amazing school
“I coincidentally met Joanne a week ago. It’s like God sent her to me. She is one of the best acupuncture professionals I have ever met. The school itself is just amazing. I was surprised that I didn’t come across this place earlier. There are many doctors who work here who are extremely knowledgeable and professional, and they custom-build therapy for you, including a Chinese medicine formula to meet your needs. I am truly thankful to Joanne for introducing me to this amazing school, where they have students who learn and practice acupuncture and massage therapy. The doctors observe patients very closely while treatment is happening. I was asked a very serious list of questions about my health in depth that my family doctors have never asked. The receptionist there was very friendly and happy to assist, and I want to thank the doctor, Joanna and her assistant, who was there to educate me and gave me advice based on my needs. I’m extremely surprised by how reasonable, or I would say low prices are. I don’t mind paying more for this outstanding service and treatment I received today from experts in Chinese medicine. I only paid $25 for my first session, and my third session will be 45 which is 65%less than you would pay anywhere else. Thank you once again for everything❤️” — Noor Kanaan, Google Review
Knowledgeable students and excellent supervisors
“6/5 stars! Students are very knowledgeable, and the supervisors are excellent. This is a fabulous and affordable way to get a meaningful amount of treatment. It’s made a big difference in my life!” — wednesday lupypciw, Google Review
2. Vicars School Of Massage Therapy
Address: 200 Country Hills Landing NW
Phone: +1 825-870-0055
Business hours:
- Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM–5 PM
For over two decades, Vicars School of Massage Therapy has been a well-known wellness education hub in the city. They’re vetted by the Canadian Massage Council for Accreditation, so you know they’re legit.
They offer a Two-Year RMT Diploma Program for those who need a flexible yet thorough education. Their format balances online learning with intensive classroom training and supervised clinic experience.
What’s great is that more than 90% of their graduates work as RMTs within their very first year. Many students even have job offers waiting for them before they graduate!
Tuition-wise, they offer a wide variety of private and community funding options available to students. You can explore everything, from Indigenous and Metis association financing to provincial awards and employer-sponsored businesses.
These options could come in handy since their tuition is a bit pricey.
Amazing school clinic for massages
“Amazing school clinic for massages. The main entrance is bright, clean, and professional. The ambiance and atmosphere are very relaxing and soothing. The massage areas are comfortable, and the student therapists are well prepared and thorough with the client’s assessments and the massage itself. I am glad I was recommended Vicar’s student clinic. I will be a regular client.” — Asics Hoka, Google Review
The hands-on training built my confidence
“My partner and I absolutely loved our experience here! The instructors are knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely care about helping students succeed. Claire is great. The hands-on training built my confidence, and the environment is welcoming and professional. I earned a certificate, feeling fully prepared for my next chapter. Highly recommend this school to anyone pursuing massage therapy!” — Ali McColl, Google Review
3. Seminars for Health
Address: 6110-34 Street S.W.
Phone: +1 403-607-9389
Business hours:
- Mon – Fri: 9–11 AM
Seminars for Health has been a leading school for manual therapists for more than 15 years. Their accredited, evidence-informed courses are recognized in both Canada and the US, having already helped train over 20,000 professionals.
Their most popular offering is the SFH Kinetic Massage Series, which is designed to teach you how to reduce chronic pain and enhance neuromuscular function. They also offer their signature SFH Orthopedic Massage method, which focuses on deep tissue work.
We like that they have online certification programs, perfect for those balancing a busy schedule.
But while they offer various premium courses, keep in mind that these do not come cheaply.
Incredible CST and MFR courses
“I took two courses, CST and MFR courses, both of which are incredible, and I could not believe it. I am so happy that I took these courses. Especially, Steve’s teaching was “AMAZING.” I will definitely take CST 2. I really recommend these courses for every therapist.” — Annie Kang, Google Review
Content & hands-on practice were perfectly balanced
“I recently did the Kinetic massage certification course in Calgary, AB. I have to say that I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed the course. The visual content and hands-on practice were perfectly balanced. Our course leader, Mara, was absolutely outstanding. Her passion for sharing her knowledge and wanting to help make us better massage therapists was palpable throughout the three-day course. I loved her teaching style, and it really worked for me. I would take another course from Seminars for Health in a heartbeat!! Highly recommended for ongoing learning and self-improvement. Thank you!” — Lindsay Andersen, Google Review
4. Chillax Massage and Teaching Clinic
Address: 1422 Kensington Rd NW #210
Phone: +1 403-930-6164
Business hours:
- Monday: 1 PM – 7:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM – 7:30 PM
- Wed, Fri: 9 AM–12 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–7 PM
- Sat – Sun: 2 PM –5 PM
Known for holistic massage education, Chillax Massage and Teaching Clinic has helped more than 6,000 students graduate in the span of a decade.
Their most sought-after course is their Advanced Massage Therapy program, a 71-week deep dive into foundational techniques with advanced clinical applications.
One of our favorite aspects is the flexible scheduling—students can choose between weekday or weekend classes.
After you graduate, they don’t just leave you alone. You’ll be equipped with a free massage table, oil holster, and a bottle of massage oil; students can start with their trade right away without worrying about setup costs.
One caveat we noticed is that they have a comparatively limited range of techniques. Those looking to enrol in different massage types might need to go elsewhere.
All of the student therapists have been fantastic
“I’ve been going to Chillax for massages for a couple of years now. All of the student therapists have been fantastic and great value as well. I’m so happy they offer this student clinic!” — Olivia Sutthery, Google Review
The value for this place is unmatched
“I had a fantastic experience with Jenny! She was very keen to listen to my individual experience, and her professionalism was astonishing for someone in their second year. The value for this place is unmatched. Thank you!” — Ezekiel Kooy, Google Review
5. Samadhi Thai Massage School
Address: 609 Rideau Rd SW
Phone: +1 250-354-8190
Business hours:
- Depends on the course
Samadhi Thai Massage School offers an authentic learning experience in the city. It’s led by Francie, who has over 10,000 hours of hands-on practice and 2,000 hours of formal Thai medicine study.
The heart of the school is their Traditional Thai Massage and Medicine Intensive Course, where you’ll learn classic Northern style (Nuad-Bo-Rarn). This program follows the Shivago Kormapaj lineage directly from the Old Chiang Mai Hospital.
In addition to this program, they have a beautiful Thai Massage & QiGong Women’s Retreat, complete with sharing circles and meditation before Thai healing.
Your investment in this school is straightforward, as the price includes your training manual and a printed certificate.
If we have to point out a concerning thing, it’s that their niche is Thai massage techniques rather than Swedish or other modalities.
By FAR the most authentic and informative Thai course
“Francine’s course is the 3rd Thai course I’ve taken, and by FAR the most authentic and informative. You can tell how deep her love and respect for Thai culture and Buddhist philosophy runs, and it truly comes through in her teaching. From the informative manual to the small details that made this course personal, Francine didn’t miss a thing. What a beautiful 8 days, learning a beautiful art, with a beautiful soul.” — Jeanine Roeland, Google Review
Probably the best in Western Canada
“Really enjoyed the small class size and Francine’s attention to detail on our techniques. She’s very supportive of students’ learning styles and pace. Her knowledge of Thai Massage is what drew me in, probably the best in Western Canada. I look forward to studying with my teacher in the future.” — Julie Roberts, Google Review