Massage Therapy NC II is the TESDA qualification for massage therapists in spas, hotels, wellness centers and cruise ships. It teaches the foundations of professional massage and two of the most requested techniques: Swedish massage and Shiatsu.
- Level
- NC II
- Sector
- Health & Social Care
- Training
- Varies by provider
- Assessment fee
- Ask the center
- Free online course
- Yes
What is Massage Therapy NC II?
The qualification covers the foundations of massage practice — client consultation, hygiene, body mechanics and contraindications — and hands-on techniques, in particular Swedish massage and Shiatsu.
It is different from Hilot (Wellness Massage), the Filipino traditional massage qualification. Some therapists earn both.
What you will learn
The TESDA Online Program organizes the qualification into:
- Foundations of massage practice
- Fundamentals of massage therapy
- Performing Shiatsu
- Performing Swedish massage
On top of these, every TESDA qualification includes basic competencies (workplace communication, teamwork, professionalism, occupational health and safety) and common competencies for the sector.
Learn Massage Therapy NC II online for free
The TESDA Online Program has free online courses for Massage Therapy NC II. Tick each one as you finish it — your progress is saved on this device:
- Foundations of Massage Practice
- Fundamentals of Massage Therapy
- Performing Shiatsu
- Performing Swedish Massage
Open the course finder to enroll, or create your free account first. The online courses give you a Certificate of Completion — the National Certificate requires the assessment below.
How to get your Massage Therapy NC II certificate
- TrainEnroll at a TESDA-registered training center or school (ask about scholarships), and use the free online courses to study the theory.
- Prepare your requirementsApplication form, Self-Assessment Guide for Massage Therapy NC II, and three colored passport-size photos.
- Book your competency assessmentChoose a TESDA-accredited assessment center that is accredited for Massage Therapy NC II. Confirm the current fee with the center.
- Pass and claim your NCIf you are found competent, apply for certification and claim your Massage Therapy NC II National Certificate. It is valid for 5 years.
Full guide to TESDA assessment centers, requirements and fees →
Jobs you can apply for
- Massage therapist in a spa or wellness center
- Hotel or resort spa therapist
- Cruise-ship spa therapist
- Home-service massage therapist
Spa therapists are hired by hotels, resorts and cruise lines abroad. Some countries also require a local license or registration for massage therapists — check before you apply.
Is Massage Therapy NC II right for you?
- You have good stamina and enjoy caring for people
- You want a hands-on job in wellness and hospitality
- You are interested in spa or cruise-ship work
- You want a skill you can also offer as a home service
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free online Massage Therapy course from TESDA?
Yes. The TESDA Online Program lists four free Massage Therapy NC II courses, including Performing Shiatsu and Performing Swedish Massage. The NC requires a hands-on assessment.
What is the difference between Massage Therapy NC II and Hilot?
Massage Therapy NC II focuses on techniques such as Swedish and Shiatsu; Hilot (Wellness Massage) is a separate TESDA qualification for traditional Filipino massage.
Can I work abroad as a massage therapist?
Spas, hotels and cruise lines abroad hire Filipino therapists, but some countries require local licensing. Check the requirements of the destination.
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Sources: TESDA Online Program. Disclaimer: Courses TESDA is an independent guide, not TESDA. Information may contain errors or change without notice — always verify with official sources before making decisions.