What opportunities will this course give me?

Students who achieve this qualification will be able to gain employment as a level 4 sports massage practitioner, providing a range of sports massage techniques for recent non-acute injuries and pre-existing conditions. This may include work in clinics, for sporting teams or as a mobile therapist and may be in an employed or self employed context.
Further study; sports therapy, level 5 sports massage or a range of complimentary therapies.
SMA full members' registration (requires first aid and a work log. Fee applies)

What will I be learning?

The VTCT level 4 certificate in sports massage therapy is focused towards those seeking to gain employment as a sports massage therapist providing sports massage to prevent and manage injury. Throughout this qualification you will develop the skills , knowledge and understanding needed to apply sports massage methods competently to recent non-acute injury and pre-existing conditions. This will include a range of massage techniques additional to those required at level 3, which include; connective tissue, soft tissue release, connective frictions, trigger points and muscle energy techniques.
You will study the following units:
Unit 1 - USP46 Conducting subjective and objective assessment. This unit will be assessed through practical assessments - subjective assessment, objective assessments; palpation, bony landmarks, joint lines, range of motion and posture assessment, a case study, assignment and a workbook.
Unit 2 - USP47 Provide sport massage techniques to prevent and mange injury. This unit will be assessed through practical assessment by understanding and applying the principles of soft tissue techniques used in sports massage.
Unit 3 - USP48 Treatment modalities to support soft tissue repair. his unit is assessed by a workbook and practical demonstrations to include understanding the use of cryotherapy and heat treatments during soft tissue repair.
Assessment of units are carried out by producing a portfolio of evidence and must be achieved fully for certification.
Assessment of both units are carried out by a portfolio of evidence and must be achieved fully for certification;
* workbooks
*case study & reflective practice
* assignments & research
* practical observations (clinical / insitu)
* work log

Work log hours are to be gained through in class informal clinical work, college field trips and assessments/ case study. The rest of these hours are to be gained through work placement, event massage and clients (sourced by the student).

At the end of this course you are qualified to carry out sports massage to a level 4 standard but will not be qualified to diagnose sport injuries or administer treatment, you can treat based on a medical refferal {you are not a qualified sports therapist but it does support progression in this area}

Why is this course for me?

Three and a half hours once a week involving both theory and practical input, plus attendance at sports events (sourced by the student). There is a high level of home study which includes; workbooks, assignments, case studies, reflective practice and the work log. Students must be able to commit to this.

What do I need to sign up?

You must have completed the level 3 certificate or diploma in sports massage therapy or equivalent to undertake this qualification. This includes courses completed in Swedish massage, a fitness qualification would support this (personal trainer, sports therapies, etc.). If qualification is over 3 years old or there is little evidence of up to date practice, students may be required to update their anatomy & physiology knowledge. Candidates must be over the age of 18yrs at certification.

*please note that requirements are set by the centre on advice from the awarding body and therefore may differ to other centres.

First Aid is not required to achieve the VTCT certificate but may be required for insurance purposes and SMA registration.

A pre-entry requirement for the course is the completion of an initial and diagnostic assessment in English.

Is there anything else I need to know?

This course is for candidates who have current experience and qualifications in sports massage at level 3 and will be over the age of 18. This qualification will allow candidates to extend their current knowledge and scope of provision in the application of advance massage in a sporting context. Application includes non pathological and pathological treatment.

The course particularly suits those working with clients who may have minor sports injuries or who work within the fitness industry, sports clubs or work alongside Physiotherapists.
At the end of the course you are qualified to carry out sports massage to a level 4 standard but will not be qualified to diagnose sports injuries or administer treatment, you can treat based on medical referral (you are not a qualified sports therapist but it does support progression in this area).

A4 file, pen and paper. Certificate of evidence for previous qualification in sports massage. VTCT registration number if you have it. Suitable clothing, such as sports kit or sports wear.

Application Information

Please note that all courses are subject to minimum numbers and course descriptions may be subject to change. A place on your chosen course is not confirmed until all of the necessary enrolment paperwork is signed and any relevant fees are paid. The team will be in touch to discuss this with you, once your application has been processed.

Course Code

MASMD4

Need some further advice?

If you require further advice and guidance about any course costs and/or the funding options available to you, the College has a dedicated Information, Advice and Guidance team who can be contacted on telephone 023 8091 1299.

The Equality Act

The College wishes to ensure that it complies with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. If you are a disabled person, please ensure that we know what you need so that we can make all reasonable adjustments to help you succeed.

Please note all courses descriptions may be subject to change.