You've had a long day at work or school and now you want to relax. How does a massage sound? It seems more and more people are willing to spend money in order to get a massage and that has made massage therapy a popular career choice. Carla Burbidge has the story.

With calming music playing in the background, a therapist offers a soothing massage to a client. Although what you're seeing here is not an actual massage studio, it's a school. Williston State College offers a two year course in massage. And a couple of years after its inception in Williston, the program was expanded to Minot and Bismarck. In Minot, classes and hands-on training is located in the former St. Joseph's Hospital building.

(Lisa Endresen, Instructor) "Two years out of your life is not a long time to get into the business, there are a lot of health care professionals and hair stylists that do massage on the side as well, its a complement to other professions."


(Carla Burbidge, KX News) Massage has been around for centuries, but because so many people are concerned about health these days, its become very popular. With an average cost of 50-dollars for a message, its a pretty good career

(Shawna Fannnik, Student) "There's a high demand for massage therapists."


(Chelsea Schwartz, Student) "Massage is very important, its a stress reliever, tension reliever, and the more often you get them the less you are building things up that we have to work out."


(Carla Burbidge, KX News) In fact, in some states, insurance will help out with the cost of a massage.. In North Dakota its not covered by insurance yet, but many people are willing to invest in their health.. .

(Chelsea Schwartz, Student) "When they say they feel great, and they come back again, it makes you feel good."


(Carla Burbidge, KX News) By the way, if you're willing to put your name on their waiting list, the students need experience in massages ,so they do take volunteers from the public. Carla Burbidge KX News

The number to call to get you name on the list for a free massage is 857-2026. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list