Last year, over forty-seven million Americans received some form of massage therapy. This has led to a doubling of career openings in this therapeutic field. As a massage therapist you can work for either a private practice, which could include spas and fitness centers, or start your own business. Among the different areas of study for a massage therapist are sports massage, reflexology, and Swedish, Shiatsu, and Thai massages. Each area of expertise comes with its own certification and training programs. You can get this training through traditional college courses or at massage training facilities. Generally, you must fulfill 300 to 1000 hours of contact experience because legally practicing. Merely working 15 hours a week in this field can earn you up to $29,000 annually.