Choosing to attend massage therapy school is a meaningful decision, and applying to Urban River Massage Institute is a personal process. There’s no expectation that you have everything decided before reaching out. Whether you’re just beginning to explore the field or are ready to apply, you’re welcome to book a tour of our Greenville, SC, or West Lafayette, IN, campus.
Admissions Requirements
Urban River is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, origin, sexual orientation, disability, or marital status.
To be eligible for admission, an applicant must:
- Be able to read and write English
- Be a US Citizen, valid immigration status holder, or approved US Permanent Resident
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Not be currently investigated or convicted of prohibited offenses by SC LLR
- Be physically, mentally, and psychologically fit for massage therapy training
- Have access to a reliable internet connection
- Have an electronic device (laptop, tablet, or computer) for outside learning
- Participate in an admissions interview with the Director or designated staff
- Completed and signed application packet
- Signed background check authorization form
- Official high school, GED, or higher education transcripts
- Copy of state (RealID) or federal photo ID (e.g., US passport)
- Passed 10-panel drug screen and background check
- Signed Catalog and Policies Acknowledgement form
- $100 non-refundable administrative fee
- Completed and signed Enrollment Agreement
- Attend new student orientation
- Maintain required training hours through each program phase
- Maintain a minimum grade of “C” in all courses
- Remain in good standing with SC LLR regulations
Transfer Credits
Urban River Massage School may accept transfer credit/hours for previous massage education courses or equivalent coursework in higher education environments. The student is eligible to transfer up to 50% of the program’s credit hours, not to exceed 350 hours. Transfer credits may not exceed this limit under any circumstances.
In order for transfer credits/hours to be considered, students must provide official, sealed transcripts and pass lecture testing plus a practical hands-on demonstration to verify proficiency in technique and proper draping procedures.
The institution makes no claim or guarantee that hours earned will transfer to another institution. Students should check with the institution they intend to transfer to and discover if any courses completed at Urban River Massage Institute are applicable for transfer credit.
Ready to Start Your Application?
Our admissions team is here to guide you through every step.
Admissions Requirements
Urban River is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, origin, sexual orientation, disability, or marital status.
To be eligible for admission, an applicant must:
- Be able to read and write English
- Be a US Citizen, valid immigration status holder, or approved US Permanent Resident
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Not be currently investigated or convicted of prohibited offenses by SC LLR
- Be physically, mentally, and psychologically fit for massage therapy training
- Have access to a reliable internet connection
- Have an electronic device (laptop, tablet, or computer) for outside learning
- Participate in an admissions interview with the Director or designated staff
- Completed and signed application packet
- Signed background check authorization form
- Official high school, GED, or higher education transcripts
- Copy of state (RealID) or federal photo ID (e.g., US passport)
- Passed 10-panel drug screen and background check
- Signed Catalog and Policies Acknowledgement form
- $100 non-refundable administrative fee
- Completed and signed Enrollment Agreement
- Attend new student orientation
- Maintain required training hours through each program phase
- Maintain a minimum grade of “C” in all courses
- Remain in good standing with SC LLR regulations
Transfer Credits
Urban River Massage School may accept transfer credit/hours for previous massage education courses or equivalent coursework in higher education environments. The student is eligible to transfer up to 50% of the program’s credit hours, not to exceed 350 hours. Transfer credits may not exceed this limit under any circumstances.
In order for transfer credits/hours to be considered, students must provide official, sealed transcripts and pass lecture testing plus a practical hands-on demonstration to verify proficiency in technique and proper draping procedures.
The institution makes no claim or guarantee that hours earned will transfer to another institution. Students should check with the institution they intend to transfer to and discover if any courses completed at Urban River Massage Institute are applicable for transfer credit.
Ready to Start Your Application?
FAQs
The process begins with a completed application and a $100 administrative fee. After that, you'll meet with the admissions team to confirm the program is a good fit and finalize your documentation. Once admitted, a $500 deposit is required to secure your seat. To get full details on current fees and next steps, contact Urban River directly.
Start Your Application TodayUrban River encourages upperclassmen to mentor newer students and hosts events, including career fairs, community chair-massage events, and continuing education sessions featuring industry professionals. These experiences help students build professional networks and practical confidence before graduating.
Learn More About Our ProgramsYes, prospective students are welcome to visit our Greenville, SC or West Lafayette, IN campus in person to experience the program firsthand. Seeing the space, meeting instructors, and getting a feel for the environment can be a valuable part of deciding whether Urban River is the right fit for your massage therapy education.
Book a Campus TourHealthcare and wellness services have historically shown resilience during economic downturns, and massage therapy, particularly in clinical and integrative health settings, benefits from the broader shift toward holistic care. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for massage therapists from 2025 to 2035*, reflecting the continued rise in interest in preventative and complementary health. While no industry is entirely immune to economic cycles, this outlook supports long-term demand for qualified massage therapists. It's a practical consideration worth discussing with our admissions team alongside your other questions.
*https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/massage-therapists.htm
Learn More About Our ProgramUrban River offers multiple payment options, including pay-in-full, 6-month, and 12-month payment plans, for students at both our Greenville, SC and West Lafayette, IN campuses. The school also connects students with third-party educational lenders and scholarship applications. For current tuition, fees, and financing details, we recommend exploring our Financing & Scholarship page and connecting with our team.
Learn More About Financing & Scholarships