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: Level 4 and 5 qualifications awarded by Focus Awards currently do not meet the National Occupational Standards for Sports Massage Therapy and so holders of these qualifications are not eligible for SMA membership.
The only Focus qualification we currently accept for membership is the Level 3 qualification with the QAN/QRN 610/2324/3. Holders of this qualification are eligible for Level 3 Therapist membership, subject to meeting our other criteria for entry.
All other Focus qualifications remain ineligible until they have been rewritten by Focus and assessed by us as meeting the NOS.
