Welcome to Cortiva Institute - Pennsylvania School of Muscle Therapy

Cortiva Institute - Philadelphia School of Massage Therapy

Welcome to the Cortiva Institute's Philadelphia Massage School!

We're excited you found us, and we'd like to share information about how we can help you become a Licensed Massage Practitioner.

At our Philadelphia Massage School, we create comprehensively trained massage professionals. We offer training expertise in technique, the science of the body and the art of touch, and instruction in the massage therapy and care. Our passionate teachers and professional staff are dedicated to helping students achieve certification, but we also help our students set business goals as they move into the larger world of massage therapy at a clinic, sports therapy center, hospital, or in their own private practice.

If you're looking for massage classes in Philadelphia, read more about us in our online resources.


Russell Afflerbach I work with people that cannot turn their head, bend over or tie their own shoes. I know how to approach them with an open mind and an open heart. I know how to help them with their physical problems. My clients are constantly challenging me with new symptoms. There is no cookie cutter treatment.This work is incredibly rewarding.

Russell Afflerbach
Alumni, Cortiva Institute - Pennsylvania School of Muscle Therapy



Cortiva Institute – Pennsylvania School of Muscle Therapy ("Cortiva") is devoted to raising the standards of massage therapy education. We believe that science and technique alone aren't enough. Through a comprehensive approach to massage therapy training – one that incorporates both science and spirit – we prepare our graduates for practice in many different settings.

Our curriculum is grounded in our belief that scientific foundations and inspirational, real-life experiences create passionate massage therapy professionals. As a student at our massage school in Philadelphia, you'll benefit from a combination of hands-on classroom instruction, clinic work and community outreach. After graduation, we continue to support our students with ongoing learning opportunities through continuing education, lectures and workshops.

Our Massage Therapy Diploma Program is a holistic and hands-on approach to massage. You'll be challenged and inspired to create your own unique career path, whether that means working in a hospital, clinic, spa, health club, or your own private practice. Training covers three main areas of study:

Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology
Coursework in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology provides a solid foundation in understanding the structure, function and health of the human body. You will have the opportunity to learn proper medical terminology that is actively reinforced in classroom experiences.

Massage Therapy and Practice
You will receive instruction on fundamental techniques in a classroom setting and practice them in a supervised and supportive environment. We also provide training in body mechanics and self-care so that you can enjoy a long and healthy career.

Professional Development
This coursework rounds out your educational experience with the business basics necessary to succeed as a professional. You'll define your goals and target markets for a successful practice. With exercises in goal setting, writing a resume, creating a business plan, marketing, advertising, and self-management, you'll walk away with the basic tools to establish your own practice or apply for jobs upon graduation.

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