Become a Certified Massage Therapist in Costa Rica
An immersive, COMTA-accredited program designed to launch your career—faster. Learn from expert instructors, train in a clinical setting, and study in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
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Clinical Experience
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A world-class education—without the four-year waitlist (or the fluorescent lighting).
The Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy (CRSMT) is the only COMTA-accredited massage therapy program abroad. That means your education meets the highest U.S. standards—while immersing you in one of the most peaceful, inspiring places on earth.
You won’t just graduate faster. You’ll graduate ready—with real clinical experience, professional mentorship, and the skills to pass licensure exams and start your career with confidence.
massage therapy curriculum
You’ll not only learn how to apply techniques—you’ll understand why they work, with a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and body mechanics.
Swedish Massage
Deep Tissue Massage
Myofascial Release
Trigger Point Therapy
Sports Massage
Hydrotherapy
Body Science
Wellness & Ethics
Real Clinical Experience from Day One
At CRSMT, your education doesn’t stop at theory. From the very beginning, you’ll be learning through experience—working with peers, building your confidence, and receiving personal feedback from instructors who are deeply invested in your growth.
But it’s the Student Clinic that sets CRSMT apart.
This is a real, public-facing massage therapy clinic where you’ll put your skills into practice. Under professional supervision, you’ll work with real clients, adapt to real scenarios, and gain real-world experience that gives you the edge in your next chapter.
Graduate with a certificate and a résumé.
Explore nearby cafés, yoga studios, wellness spaces, surf schools, and nature preserves. Whether you want to hike to hidden waterfalls, snorkel coral reefs, or simply take a walk under the stars—you’ll find the space and pace to reconnect with yourself here.
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This program is designed for:
- Aspiring massage therapists seeking top-tier training in an unforgettable setting
- Professionals looking to make a meaningful career change
- Students interested in combining education with adventure
- Individuals who value wellness, personal growth, and purpose-driven work
This is an intensive, accelerated program. Your days will be full. Your mind will stretch. And your hands will work. But you’ll walk away with more than a certificate—you’ll leave with a new level of confidence, skill, and clarity.
If you’re willing to show up, stay curious, and do the work—we’re ready to welcome you.
Whether you want to work in a spa, retreat center, sports clinic, or medical setting—or start a private practice of your own—you’ll be prepared.
Our graduates go on to work in:
- Luxury resorts and wellness retreats
- Sports and rehabilitation clinics
- Integrative health centers and chiropractic offices
- Private practice, mobile massage, and entrepreneurial ventures
The bottom line
CRSMT Massage School
Admission Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- English language proficiency
- Completed application, including a short interview.
Tuition & Fees
- Tuition: $20,000
- With On-Campus Housing: $22,500
Optional housing includes shared or private accommodations in CRSMT’s beautiful on-campus bungalows. Payment plans are available. Some financial support and scholarships may be available—please inquire for current details.
Why Choose the Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy?
There are plenty of places to study massage therapy. But only one like this.
At CRSMT, you’ll get:
- A COMTA-accredited, accelerated program that respects your time—and your goals
- World-class instruction rooted in both science and practice
- Mentorship that’s personal, professional, and rooted in real-world experience
- An immersive experience in Costa Rica that’s as transformative as it is practical
- Clinical experience working with real clients—before you even graduate
- Graduation pathways that lead to real careers across wellness, healthcare, and hospitality
- It’s not just about getting certified. It’s about gaining confidence, clarity, and a career that feels like it fits.
This is massage therapy education—at a new level.
And it’s waiting for you in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Graduate with a certificate and a résumé.
Not a detour. Not a ‘someday.’ Just a step forward—toward something that finally makes sense.
What Graduates Say
“I was nervous about switching paths, but I’ve never felt so supported—or so proud of what I accomplished.”
Jenny L., Mother of Two & Now Licensed MT
What Graduates Say
“This experience gave me so much more than a certification. It gave me clarity, direction, and a deep sense of confidence in myself.”
Alyssa R., Graduate
What Graduates Say
“I left CRSMT with not just the skills to start a new career, but the energy to finally go after the life I wanted.”
Michelle T., Career-Changer
What Graduates Say
“Being immersed in the jungle while learning such a powerful craft was the greatest gift I’ve ever given myself.”
Samantha B., Former Hospitality Professional
What Graduates Say
“I was nervous about switching paths, but I’ve never felt so supported—or so proud of what I accomplished.”
Jenny L., Mother of Two & Now Licensed MT
What Graduates Say
“This experience gave me so much more than a certification. It gave me clarity, direction, and a deep sense of confidence in myself.”
Alyssa R., Graduate
How long is the program?
The full-time program at CRSMT is 600 hours long, designed to be immersive, intensive, and highly rewarding. Students complete in four months what typically takes 9–12 months in traditional programs.
Is CRSMT accredited?
Yes. CRSMT is COMTA-accredited (Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation), which reflects the school’s commitment to excellence and allows many graduates to pursue licensure in the U.S. and beyond, depending on state-specific requirements.
What is the tuition cost?
The tuition for the full 600 hour program is $20,000. Housing, meals, travel, and additional expenses are separate. Payment plans may be available for those who qualify—reach out to admissions for more information.
What are the admissions requirements?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete a written application. A genuine desire to learn, grow, and commit to the intensive program is essential.
Is Sámara safe?
Yes. Sámara is a quiet, laid-back beach town with a reputation for being safe and welcoming. CRSMT’s campus is gated and secure, and many students walk or bike comfortably around town.
Will I have Wi-Fi and phone service?
Yes. Campus housing and classrooms are equipped with reliable Wi-Fi, and most U.S. cell providers offer international plans that work well in the area.
Can I practice in the U.S. after graduating?
In most cases, yes. CRSMT graduates are eligible to sit for the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination). Each U.S. state has its own licensing requirements, so be sure to confirm specifics with your state board.
What are the job prospects after graduation?
CRSMT grads go on to work in luxury resorts, wellness centers, medical clinics, spas, sports facilities, and private practices. The demand for massage therapy continues to grow—especially for well-trained professionals.
Is this program right for me if I’ve never studied massage before?
Yes! Many students enter the program with no prior massage or bodywork experience. The curriculum is designed to take you from beginner to confident practitioner in just four months.
What does a typical day at CRSMT look like?
Expect full, focused days of hands-on learning, anatomy and physiology study, and peer practice, with time in the evenings and weekends to enjoy Sámara and recharge. Think immersive and rewarding—not overwhelming.
Can I come alone? Will I make friends?
Most students come solo—and leave with lifelong friends. You’ll live, learn, and grow in a small, close-knit cohort, with built-in community from day one.
Do you offer housing and meals?
Yes. CRSMT offers a range of student housing options, from shared to private accommodations. All on campus housing is equipped with full kitchens and there are many local grocers and a weekly farmers markets within a few minutes walk from campus.
Can I take this program if I have children or a family?
Yes. While intensive, the program has supported parents and working professionals before. Some students bring family members along, while others come solo with a clear plan for support back home.
Do you offer financial aid or payment plans?
While CRSMT does not currently offer federal financial aid, flexible payment options may be available for qualified applicants. Contact admissions for details.
What happens after I apply?
Applicants who pass the preliminary application questions will have the opportunity to book a call with an admissions advisor on the spot. From there, the admissions team will answer your questions, learn about your goals, and guide you through the final steps of the process. If accepted, you’ll receive a full onboarding packet to help you prepare for your time in Costa Rica.
The Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy is the premier massage school and study abroad program in the world for Massage Therapy Certification! Students receive an outstanding education and launch themselves into the massage therapy industry as powerful competitors equipped with qualifications to practice legally in the US and many other places in the world.