FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                            Contact: Marisa Bilicic

July 16, 2003                                                                  814-676-6591 Ext. 1215

 Clarion University–Venango Campus Launches Massage Therapy Program

OIL CITY, PA – Clarion University–Venango Campus has added massage therapy to its growing array of one-year certificate programs. The new program, which will start this fall, consists of credit and non-credit courses and fulfills the requirements for national massage therapy certification exam eligibility. All classes are taught by Clarion University faculty or certified massage therapists.

            “The massage therapy field is growing dramatically,” said Christopher M. Reber, executive dean of Venango Campus. “This certificate program will prepare graduates for immediate employment in numerous practice environments including wellness clinics, medical clinics, health centers, spas, resorts or private practice.”

The Massage Therapy Certificate program provides an academically based education grounded on two concepts which Clarion University–Venango Campus feels are essential. First, students need to understand issues associated with owning and running a small business. Second, students need to develop an awareness of their roles and responsibilities as massage therapists in the alternative health care system. Graduates will be trained to exhibit the professionalism, attitude, appropriate communication and ethical conduct required to work in this environment. 

Linda Hemmes, Certified Massage Therapist (CMT); Betty McKisson, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner and CMT; Angel Muschweck, Clarion University-Venango Campus Coordinator of Student Activities who has a degree in exercise science and lifetime fitness; and guest lecturers have been hired as instructors for the program, which will accept new students each fall term. Venango Campus will offer all courses in the evenings and on weekends for convenient scheduling. In addition to classroom work, students will be required to complete 160 hours of practical experience with approved massage therapists in the region. 

Interested individuals should call Hope Lineman, coordinator of continuing education at Venango Campus, at 814-676-6591, extension 1273 for details, or 877-VENANGO for long-distance calls. Individuals also can visit www.clarion.edu/venango to learn more about this new program. 

Clarion University–Venango Campus provides high-quality educational programs and personalized services to help students succeed. Students can earn an associate degree, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in select areas, obtain a one-year certificate or participate in a variety of professional development and personal enrichment courses. Clarion University–Venango Campus is committed to serving the needs of the community. Special programs offered at the campus include Kids in College, Jump Start and SeniorLink.

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