The State of Wisconsin Massage Therapist Requirements
Throughout the 65,497 square miles of the Badger State, approximately 4,760 massage therapists work to help the more than 5.8 million people in their state find relief from pain, rehabilitation from injuries, and comfort in the midst of stress and anxiety.
With 594,548 people in Milwaukee, 254,977 people in Madison, and 104,777 people in Green Bay, massage therapists who work in Wisconsin can find an engaged environment to open, continue, or join a massage therapy business.
How Do I Become A Massage Therapist in Wisconsin?
If you’re ready to move into your career as a massage therapist in Wisconsin, you must register with the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. The registration fee is $150. Once you are registered, you must receive licensure by the Board. If you do not register, you will be working illegally and can receive a fine.
In order to receive this license, you must complete a minimum of 600 hours from an approved massage therapy program.
You can find application request forms on their website.
Where Can I Study?
Below are two approved schools in Wisconsin to help you get started on what you may be looking for in a massage therapy education.
- Wisconsin School of Massage Therapy: Students at this school will learn how to care for clients and their needs as well as learn the importance of self care so you can give your best to your clients. WSMT hopes that they have structured their program to “help you acquire all the tools you will need to be a successful massage therapist.”
- Blue Sky School of Professional Massage and Therapeutic Bodywork: This school invites students to “explore your future in five steps.” With a mission to “create a sustainable future for our world,” their primary focus is on developing physical, spiritual and emotional well being.
Other education options include Lakeside Massage Therapy Clinic and Milwaukee School of Massage.
How Much Will I Earn?
The average annual wage of a massage therapist in Wisconsin was $52,424 in 2021. This is on the lower side of state earnings, with the average national salary at $53,222. However, massage therapists who work in Minneapolis-St. Paul have the opportunity to earn a higher salary, with the average for this city at $60,221 annually.