FAQ I Maui Academy of Healing Arts I Hawaii Massage School

Hawai'i requires an applicant to have completed 570 hours minimum of approved massage education.

This includes at least 150 hours of core subject matter (Anatomy and Physiology, Structural Kinesiology, Business and Ethics, Basic Theory) and 420 hours of practical work or "hands-on". Our practical instruction is achieved mostly through class modules, however students also earn credit via our student clinic (125 hrs) and community outreach events.

What are Maui Academy's affiliations and credentials?

We have been licensed by the State of Hawaii Department of Education as a Private Trade and Vocational School since 1990. We are an NCBTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) Assigned School. We are a member of ABMP (Associated Massage and Bodywork Professionals) and the AMTA (American Massage Therapists Association). We are also a member of AFMTE (Alliance for Massage Therapy Education). We are a COMTA Endorsed Curriculum School.

Our school is bonded and insured for liability.

How long is your program?

Our intensive, part-time program is just over 4 months. You can view our schedules here. All hourly credit requirements must be completed in order to graduate and apply for testing within each program, however if a student needs additional time to complete clinic hours or make up classes they may do so and apply for the next available test date.

We have found through observing classes over time, that a balance between intensive study and a part-time schedule creates the best experience for our students. We carry a high expectation of our students to meet the level of personal presence and focus required to truly excel in this work. A 4 month time frame with a 4 day full schedule best allows for students to maintain a supportive amount of intent on their life/work environment while still being solidly committed to their education. Burn-out is a very real occurrence in some of the longer program lengths.

Do you offer student housing?

Yes! We are offering student housing for the 2023/2024 school year, and also like to connect our enrollees with each other prior to the start of class in case you would like to hui up and rent a space together. Visit our student housing page for more details. Craigslist is an excellent resource for rentals locally, as is Facebook Marketplace. Visit the Maui CL page for housing here.

How much can I expect to earn as an LMT?

Compensation for professional massage work is determined by many variables. The type of work you do, the environment you work in (spa, clinic, medical, out-call), your experience level and specialization knowledge can all factor in to how much you can earn as a practitioner. At MAHA, we have a Business and Ethics course that helps each person formulate the best path forward after licensure. We also work closely with many large resort spas, local clinics and healthcare professionals to match students with the right positions available. Many of our students are connected with potential job openings even prior to their test completion!

Do you help students with employment after graduation?

Yes! MAHA receives requests regularly for new students to apply at many local spas and clinics. We cannot guarantee employment, however we work very hard to match our students with the best opportunities for them.

MAHA works exclusively with the Four Seasons Lana'i in training the community for licensure and we also are a conduit to many other resort spas (locally and nationally), local clinics and out-call practices. We often times have more requests for therapists than we do students! It's a student's responsibility to excel at their craft and impress an employer, however we are continually working to match our graduates with the right working environment.

Do you accept transfer students from other schools?

Yes! MAHA will review and consider previous training and history from other licensed or similarly accredited institutions within the US or abroad. All transcripts in a foreign language must be translated to English, both for review and application submission purposes. The Director of MAHA will review and advise on curriculum and practical requirements, then help you decide the best way forward to customize a program that will complete your education goals.

I am an LMT in another state, can I transfer my license to Hawai'i?

In many cases, licensure and education from another state can be reviewed and submitted to the Hawai'i Board of Massage for credit towards a Hawai'i massage exam approval and subsequent licensure in the State of Hawai'i. Its important to understand the rules and regulations for acceptance using this process, and MAHA is happy to guide you through it for a consulting fee. Your transcripts, continuing education, certifications/credentials and current state's licensing requirements will be reviewed and guidance given for application submission. The fee for a transfer consultation is 85$.

Can I get licensing in other states with my Hawai'i massage education?

If you are planning to apply for licensure in another state before you begin your program at MAHA, it's very important that you research that particular state's requirements for massage licensing. Most of the state massage boards across the country have their laws and regulations posted on their respective government websites. Once you have this information, MAHA can assist you with tailoring your education program to meet any additional requirements not currently met within our curriculum, to match your states required hours.

It's important to note that Hawai'i has its own testing process for licensure, whereas almost all other US licensing bodies accept either the MBLEx exam or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork exam. MAHA's curriculum will qualify students to take the MBLEx exam upon graduation. To learn more about NCBTMB, visit their website here.

I am seeking an M1 student visa, can MAHA accept international students?

Yes! Maui Academy is approved by the Department of Homeland Security to submit an I-20 form to confirmed enrollees so that they may receive a student visa to the US for the duration of their program. Please call the school directly to discuss your need for a student visa.

What is the Hawai'i State testing process?

The State of Hawai'i maintains its own Massage Therapy testing for licensure, as opposed to many other states who accept the MBLEx test or the NCBTMB exam. Testing is held regularly on Maui and more frequently on Oahu for in-person and also offers an online testing option. The massage board publishes additional information regarding testing on their website.

An Exam Review is scheduled just prior to your graduations date, and we guide you through the application process individually.

Will I qualify to take the MBLEx after graduation?

Yes! MAHA's curriculum surpasses the basic requirements needed to apply and and sit for the MBLEx exam. Once you have applied to take the test, MAHA will upload a copy of your transcript directly to the FSMTB website. You can explore more information about the MBLEx test here.

Will I qualify to test for National Board Certification (NCBTMB) after graduation?

Yes! As an NCBTMB Assigned School, MAHA's 625 hour program meets the basic core requirements to test for Board Certification.

Do you work with government financial aid or scholarships?

Currently, MAHA does not accept federal aid for tuition. We do offer several in-house payment options and we also partner with Alu Like, Inc. providing scholarships up to 100% for those of Native Hawaiian descent.

Visit our Tuition page for additional details about in-house payment plans and third-party financing.

Visit Alulike.org for details on scholarships.

Where are you located?

MAHA is located at 161 Hana Hwy, Paia HI 96779. The school is in what is considered the North Shore of Maui. We are approximately 15 minutes from the Kahului airport. Historic Paia Town is an amazing place to live/work/play! Shopping, groceries, personal services and world-class beaches are just outside our doorstep. Paia is very walkable for the student without personal transportation, and the bus service for Maui picks up right across the street from our building. Visit this link to learn more about Paia and Maui's North Shore.

I am considering moving to Maui to attend school, what should I expect?

Moving to the islands is a very rewarding AND challenging experience! The pace of life here is very different than that of the mainland, and things such as the cost of goods and services, or the availability of affordable housing can dramatically alter your life choices in contrast to what you may be used to.

The culture here is very rich and diverse, but also steeped in local customs and ways of interacting in the community. It is always an adjustment for new folks coming to the island, so giving yourself time to get settled and find your best fit with work, home and play is very important. We recommend at least 1-3 months prior to beginning classes at MAHA. If you are considering student housing, we open our rooms up to arriving students 2 weeks prior to the beginning of class.

Our school staff is always happy to answer questions and consult with you on your move, please call or email the school to set up a time to speak with one of our staff to help you plan for a successful transition!

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