If you’re considering a career change because you’re feeling the pinch from the rising cost of living, you’re not alone. Every day Aussies are side hustling and taking on extra jobs in record numbers to take advantage of skill shortages or stay afloat.
The big question for many is – what can I do to make more money fast? Studying toward a degree is one option, but the cost and time commitment aren’t manageable for everyone.
Thankfully, you can land a high-paying job as a remedial massage therapist with a diploma rather than a lengthy (and costly) degree. Read on to discover what’s involved and what you can expect to earn on your way to a new and rewarding career.
What is remedial massage therapy?
Remedial massage is a form of massage therapy focused on treating specific injuries and chronic conditions. Unlike other massage therapies, Qualified remedial therapists train to focus on specific health outcomes and goals, rather than simple relaxation.
Why study a diploma of remedial massage therapy?
Working as a remedial massage therapist can net you the best of both worlds. For one, you’ll work in an industry focused on supporting the overall health and wellbeing of Australians while empowering them to live more fulfilling lives.
Plus, you can qualify in less time than other careers and earn better than the average wage.
Compared to other 12-month diploma courses, only a few match the earning capacity of the Diploma of Remedial Massage.
At Demi International, we offer a well-rounded Diploma of Remedial Massage [HLT52015] that can have you job-ready in 12 months of full-time study, blending online and face-to-face learning in a hybrid delivery model that enhances the learning experience.
Want to learn why hands-on learning experience is so important?
Before we delve into what’s included and what you can expect to earn once you’re qualified, let’s explore why a diploma course might be a better fit for you than a degree.
Why Study for a Diploma vs a Degree?
The ability to hit the ground running as a qualified professional in just 12 months is a big drawcard for many of our students. Rather than investing four years (and a tonne of cash) into a 3-4 year degree, you can gain the skills you need in only a fraction of the time. Tick.
Diplomas are generally much more affordable than degree qualifications, which makes paying for training easier to manage. Another tick.
Similar to other industry segments, Demi’s Diploma of Remedial Massage [HTL52015] is a recognised pathway to further study. Once qualified, you can explore further training in myotherapy, exercise science, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and health science careers. Yet another tick.
What’s involved in a remedial massage diploma?
As a Diploma of Remedial Massage [HLT52015] student at Demi International, you’ll need to dedicate 15 to 20 hours each week to online coursework and 12 to 16 hours each week to participating in face-to-face sessions. In-person course components take place 1.5 to 2 days per week, and the diploma program is sectioned into four manageable 11-week terms.
You’ll also need to complete 200 supervised clinical hours to grow your practical skills and consolidate your knowledge before you can graduate.
Many students appreciate this blended approach to course delivery and learning – especially those juggling work and family commitments around study.
What does a remedial massage therapist earn?
The average salary for a remedial massage therapist in Australia is $74,344 per year, though many therapists earn around $100 per hour at minimum. Entry-level positions start at $58,000 per year, but more experienced therapists can earn up to $103,155 per year*
Working for someone else, 4 days per week (4 hours each day) in a situation where you’re taking home 50% of fees, could earn an average salary of $41,600 per year before tax. That’s not bad for 4 days of work.
Mind you, this is only the beginning.
If you decide to set yourself up from home, you could earn up to $83,000 before taxes, working the same hours.
As your client base grows, you’ll have the potential to boost your income even further. Plus, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of being your own boss. Feel like you need to slow down? Go ahead, reduce your hours or take a holiday.
As a qualified remedial massage therapist, you’re in the driver’s seat.
Student case study:
If you’re tossing up between courses and industries, it might help to consider the story of Emily, a Demi International graduate who is working as a thriving remedial therapist in Queensland.
Emily, who has a caring heart and healing hands by nature, originally wanted to be a nurse. She enrolled in a number of different nursing courses but found herself dropping out of each time due to the pressure of time constraints and heavy courseloads. She felt burnt-out and went exploring for other options.
After switching her career focus, she was able to quickly earn her diploma and get to work. Despite starting on a salary similar to that of a nurse, as an experienced remedial massage therapist, Emily now earns significantly more than she would have in a nursing career.
The takeaway
If you’re interested in massage and want to increase your earning potential as quickly and effectively as possible, a Diploma of Remedial Massage [HLT52015] could be a golden opportunity.