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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Therapeutic Massage 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99711  Diploma in Therapeutic Massage 
ORIGINATOR
Potchefstroom Akademie (Edms) Bpk/Potchefstroom Academy (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 240)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Promotive Health and Developmental Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  240  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2032-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the program is to deliver graduates with comprehensive knowledge of and competence in the application of Therapeutic Massage. The student will be able to independently carry out required duties, make decisions and solve problems and or do referrals in the context of the workplace. It will also prepare the learner to be sensitive to issues of race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation as well as to have respect for the human body.

As the health science environment is becoming more aware of preventative health measures, this qualification will enable students to become health conscious professionals, who can provide their patients with information on a better lifestyle, resulting in reduced stress levels and improved public health.
The curriculum is designed in such a manner as to ensure that graduates will be equipped with:
  • The knowledge and cognitive competencies (analysis, recognition, and postulation of a problem, the skill to do the necessary research to solve relevant problems, the expertise to perform various treatments, critical thinking and evaluation expertise) to function effectively within the industry as individuals but also as members and leaders of teams.
  • The ability to effectively communicate in a business environment (both verbally and by way of appropriate media and technology).
  • A sound ethical and appropriate foundation to successfully enter and function in the field of Health Therapies.

    Rationale:
    The current Diploma in Therapeutic Massage Therapy at (NQF5), Diploma in Therapeutic Aromatherapy at (NQF 5) and Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology (NQF 5) was evaluated against the requirements of the HEQSF and national policy standards. This qualification was then re-designed, NQF level aligned, and integrated into the two year Diploma in Therapeutic Massage (NQF 6; 263 credits).

    This qualification has been developed according to the Allied Health Professional Council (AHPCSA) Act specifications and allows the qualified learners to register with the AHPCSA on completion of the qualification. The qualified graduate will be able to apply and provide the appropriate remedial, relaxation and preventative therapies in order to maintain health and wellness. The Diploma is essential to provide graduates with a competitive edge in terms of their vocational expertise when applying for employment.

    In addition, graduates exiting from the current Diploma in Therapeutic Massage (NQF 5) have been employed in the Health sector in South Africa. Graduates also open their own successful practices in the AHPCSA industry. Therefore, it has been established that graduates with the attributes taught in Therapeutic Massage, offer a valuable contribution to the economic reconstruction, development and growth, and adapt to and survive in an economically complex world.

    The Diploma in Therapeutic Massage provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to enable a successful candidate to follow a career path as a Therapeutic Massage Therapist. Qualified learners register with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa.

    It is of importance to note a further purpose, in that the qualification aims to develop responsible citizens, capable of leading independent, responsible lifestyles while contributing to economic growth and sustainability within South African communities.

    Therapeutic Massage links to other health science fields and networking opportunities as well as referral between Health Professionals. Graduates of this diploma will be qualified to work in a wide variety of sectors, including natural health centres, health clubs, nursing homes, multi-disciplinary clinics as well as their own practice. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The Institution strives to comply with the National Policy for the Implementation of the Recognition of Prior Learning as gazetted on 15 March 2013. Potchefstroom Academy also takes into account the recommendation and application of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) within the higher education context and the view of the CHE as stipulated in the Draft Policy on the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and assessment in Higher Education (March 2015).

    RPL is used when no formal training or learning has taken place and in cases where Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAD) cannot be performed. As stated, RPL may be carried out at any level of learning and at any NQF level and to provide an alternative access route into a programme of learning for those who do not meet the formal entry requirements for admission. The candidate seeking access through RPL will provide a Portfolio of Evidence outlining experience and competencies gained to the Institution and this will be evaluated against the entry requirements provided that they meet the minimum age requirements for candidates that do not hold a National Senior Certificate with the appropriate exemption. RPL is also used to determine the level of study in a programme to which the RPL applicant will be admitted.

    RPL assessment constitutes of two parts, namely the Cognitive Assessment and Supporting Documentation that provides an insight into required competencies needed in terms of knowledge and skills gained in practices in the field of work. Academic staff involved in the programme will be responsible for the assessment of the RPL portfolio. The assessment should be fair and transparent and the general policy on appeals procedures applies to RPL candidates not satisfied with the assessment results or process.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum requirement for admission to this qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC).
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC).
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV).
    And
  • Students enrolling should be proficient in the institution's language of instruction, (English and/or Afrikaans). 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at Levels 5 and 6 totalling 263 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 5, 130 Credits:
  • Anatomy I, 25 Credits.
  • Anatomy II, 25 Credits.
  • Massage I, 54 Credits.
  • Communication and listening skills, 2 Credits.
  • Business Practice, 6 Credits.
  • Nutrition, 8 Credits.
  • First Aid, 2 Credits.
  • Computer Practice, 2 Credits.
  • Exercise Science I, 6 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 6, 133 Credits:
  • Dietary Supplements, 8 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 20 Credits.
  • Massage II, 54 Credits.
  • Research, 5 Credits.
  • Pathology and Pathophysiology, 30 Credits.
  • Patient Care, 4 Credits.
  • Exercise Science II, 8 Credits.
  • Practice Management, 4 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of:
    a) Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology and Wellness aspects to incorporate it into Therapeutic Massage and
    b) how knowledge of the above, relates to treatments within the field of Therapeutic Massage.
    2. Select, evaluate and effectively apply with discernment those standard practical operating procedures to solve fundamental health related problems in a defined holistic Therapeutic Massage environment, with a view to enhance the clients overall well-being and to provide necessary guidance with regards to retail, home care and treatment plan.
    3. Distinguish and solve client related problems in unfamiliar contexts and to apply the solutions in all the practical components of the Diploma in Therapeutic Massage.
    4. Understand the ethical implications of decisions, actions and practices specifically relevant to Therapeutic Massage within a professional context, in accordance with the code of conduct/rules of practice/ethical and hygienic standards required to manage or be employed in an industry related environment.
    5. Relate discipline-specific methods and techniques of scientific enquiry and information gathering during the consultation process to analyze, evaluate and synthesize information and apply conclusions /research to the formulation and application of a Therapeutic Massage treatment.
    6. Demonstrate accurate and coherent written and verbal communication of business related aspects with understanding of and respect for intellectual property conventions, copyright and rules on plagiarism and advertising regulations.
    7. Act as group member and a group leader and contribute appropriate information/skills in the business environment, measuring the success of the task completion against given criteria, taking co-responsibility for learning progress and outcome realization of the group.
    8. Monitor one's own learning progress, implement relevant strategies in work integrated learning to improve learning, and manage resources in the workplace effectively to successfully realize the task outcome of all practical components completed throughout the Diploma in Therapeutic Massage. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Apply knowledge and informed understanding of the embedded knowledge of the key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories of science, related to Therapeutic Massage.
  • Apply knowledge and informed understanding of terminology, anatomical positions, structural organization and function of Anatomy and Physiology, Pathology and Pathophysiology, relevant to the field of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Display knowledge and informed understanding of terms, concepts, principles, and knowledge of theory relevant to different massage manipulations and techniques and the applications thereof in the field of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Distinguish and solve fitness and exercise related problems and apply the solutions to support the development of body fitness and correct posture in the practice of exercise science in Therapeutic Massage.
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of nutritional concepts in order to advise patients on a healthier lifestyle and provide sensible advice towards nutritional imbalances.
  • Identify, understand and apply an ethical and health professional framework as a guideline to practice as per the regulations and act of the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA).
  • Apply knowledge and informed understanding of the concepts and types of research methodology relevant to the field of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Prepare a treatment room for Therapeutic Massage protocols.
  • Analyse theory-driven concepts and protocols and apply it to the various types of treatments within the field of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Collect and analyse client information during a consultation session to modify or create a treatment plan within the field of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Perform, manage and execute the various types of treatments within the field of Therapeutic Massage to enhance the patients' overall well-being.
  • Apply knowledge and application of fundamental business concepts and skills to establish and operate a successful business in accordance with acceptable ethical, legal and professional behaviour relevant to the practice of Therapeutic Massage.
  • Prepare a treatment room according to the treatment discipline and requirements incorporating aspects of hygiene, sterilisation, sanitation, AHPCSA specifications and Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
  • Incorporate the theory, philosophy, background, terminology, principles, equipment, methods and products according to hygiene and sterilization principles in all practical work.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of entry level First Aid procedures in the Therapeutic Massage environment.
  • Show an understanding of the importance of appropriate record keeping, consultation techniques, patient care and practice management.
  • Identify indications and contra-indications and supply supporting evidence and possible actions to be taken.
  • Discuss and consult with the patient in order to plan and perform treatments and give advice on home care regime.
  • Communicate verbally or in writing, via different technologies and media, in an accurate and coherent manner with understanding of copyright and rules on plagiarism to be used in study and business.
  • Understand the value of listening skills, non-verbal communication and verbal communication in uses of formal business documents.
  • Display knowledge and insight of the use of computer hardware, software and IT operating systems to be used efficiently in the work place.
  • Analyse concepts, characteristics, opportunities and ideas in small business management.
  • Acquire skills and become proficient in all aspects of a Therapeutic Massage business operation.
  • Manage resources in the workplace efficiently to successfully realize the task outcome of all practical components completed throughout the Therapeutic Massage qualification.
  • Understand and apply the philosophy, key terms, concepts, facts, rules and theories of Therapeutic Massage treatments with an understanding of how that knowledge relates to the various Health related industries.
  • Comprehend and explain general and specific entrepreneurial skills.
  • Develop and discuss a monthly schedule of operations including standard operating procedures for the organisation.

    Integrated Assessment:
    According the assessment policy of the Institution, all assessments must be fair, valid and reliable. An integrated assessment approach is incorporated through formative and summative assessment processes.
    Formative/continuous assessment: Assessment takes place throughout the semester and progress is evaluated by conducting different assignments such as group activities (lesson presentation, debating, role play etc.), individual as well as formal assignments and test opportunities. The marks allocated form part of the participation mark needed for final admission to the examination.
    Summative assessment: One examination paper or practical exam will be completed at the end of each module. Mark for the summative assessment is combined with student's year mark to calculate the final mark.
    WIL assessment: The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component, takes the form of Problem-based Learning (PBL) and Workplace Learning (WPL). Each of these components is assessed separately.
  • Assessment of PBL: forms part of the informal and formal formative assessment opportunities of each of the subjects.
  • Assessment of WPL: The completion of the WPL component is compulsory for completion of studies. Logbooks are completed and monitored for compliance.

    Theory assessment:
    A variety of assessment strategies and/or approaches must be used such as, but not limited to:
  • Tests.
  • Assignments.
  • Workbooks.
  • Projects.
  • Demonstrations.

    Practical assessment:
    May take the form of:
  • Written.
  • Practical or
  • Oral assessment.
  • Case studies and Work Integrated Learning. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The design of the qualification has been compared with both local and international qualifications.

    Across the multiple disciplines regulated by the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa, relatively similar programs are offered by International organizations in other countries.
    The curriculum can be compared with or contains aspects of the following international qualifications:

    New Zealand and Australia:
  • Certificate in Therapeutic Massage. NZQA Level 5. 120 Credits.
  • Diploma in Health Sciences (Therapeutic Massage). NZQA Level 6. 185 Credits.
  • Diploma in Advanced Therapeutic Massage. NZQA Level 6. 240 Credits.
  • Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage. NZQA Level 7. 360 Credits.

    Providers:
  • Eastern Institute of Technology.
  • Massage School of Queensland.

    United States:
  • In the United States of America (USA), no national qualifications exist. The majority of courses offered specialize in one area only and encompasses hours of training.

    Private providers:
  • Discovery Point School of Massage.
  • Colorado School of Healing Arts.
  • National Holistic Institute.

    Comparability study between International qualification and the Diploma in Therapeutic Massage:
    The International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT) offers approval status for a variety of workshops, courses and training with Schools and Colleges throughout Australia and New Zealand. Having IICT approved training is a seal which adds credibility to your courses and provides affiliation with our professional body. One of the approved Training providers chosen for this Comparability study is: Massage School of Queensland.

    Eastern Institute of Technology in New Zealand offers the Diploma in Remedial Massage.

    Subject content that will be covered in the qualification:
  • Knowledge of biomedical, behavioural, educational, and social science bases of healthcare. Knowledge to appropriately treat a variety of musculoskeletal and other system conditions.
  • Remedial massage therapy interventions to address musculoskeletal dysfunction.
  • Research literacy, evidence-based learning, clinical judgements and intervention strategies of massage therapy practice.
  • Range of professional, self-management, communication and client service knowledge and skills to meet remedial massage therapy client and industry needs.

    Conclusion:
    In general this qualification compares well with its local and international counterparts; the only differences are the NQF structures which make direct comparison difficult. The majority of Countries offer courses specializing in one specific area only with course duration of 1200 hours to 2400 hours. Although many comparisons can be drawn between the curriculum and structure of the Diploma in Therapeutic Massage and other local and international programmes, components within its programme are unique to a the Institution.

    In consideration of curriculum, the Diploma in Therapeutic Massage compares favorably with the disciplines and outcomes offered by these international organizations as this institution offers a detailed qualification in line with the minimum requirements to practice of the AHPCSA. The qualification compares favorably with the AHPCSA regulations for registration that sets academic and professional standards and provides a comparison nationally. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers systemic articulation with the following qualification offered by other institutions, provided the learner meets the minimum entry requirements:

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Cognate Bachelor's Degree at Level 7.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma in Therapeutic Massage at Level 6.
  • Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology at Level 6.
  • Diploma in Somatology at Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.