Eligible qualifications might include
- a Level 3, 4 or 5 qualification in Sports Massage Therapy from an Awarding Organisation (VTCT/ITEC, Active IQ or YMCA) accredited by the QCF/RQF national framework for qualifications that meets the SMA's minimum standards for delivery - please read our stance on intensive courses for more information about this.
- the Certificate in Advanced Clinical Massage Therapy or the BTEC Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Clinical Massage & Sports Massage as delivered by Jing Advanced Massage Training
- a degree course from an SMA-accredited university
- the Level 5 OCN qualification or (formerly) BTEC Level 5 course run by NLSSM
- a BTEC Level 4 or 5 course in Sports and Remedial Massage or Soft Tissue Therapy
- the Neuromuscular Physical Therapy course as delivered by NTC Ireland (post-2019)
Student membership is only open to those who are studying towards a qualification in Sports Massage Therapy - it is not for therapists who are already qualified and then subsequently register for a degree/FE course in any other modality.
**PLEASE NOTE: Focus Awards Qualifications
Not all Focus Awards qualifications meet the National Occupational Standards for Sports Massage Therapy. As a result, holders of these qualifications may not be eligible for SMA membership.
At present, the only Focus Awards qualifications accepted for SMA membership are:
|
Level
|
QAN/QRN
|
Membership eligibility
|
|
Level 3
|
610/2324/3
|
Eligible for Level 3 Therapist membership
|
|
Level 4
|
610/6703/9
|
Eligible for Level 4 Therapist membership
|
Eligibility remains subject to applicants meeting all other SMA membership entry criteria.
Please note all other Focus Award qualifications including Level 5 are currently not accepted for SMA membership.
