While degree programs in holistic health or
massage therapy incorporate aromatherapy as part of their curriculums,
students can focus solely on aromatherapy through accredited certificate
programs. Online options are available and are considered a starting
point for a career as an aromatherapist.
Online Certificate Programs in Aromatherapy Overview
Aromatherapy, a branch of holistic medicine, uses essential oils to
heal a person's mind, body and spirit and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Aromatherapists work with patients to promote optimal physical and
emotional balance and well being using natural essential oils. As
students, they learn about the history of essential oil use in
alternative medicine.
Their instructors also demonstrate the proper ways to handle essential
oils, tailor therapy treatments for clients and obtain client referrals.
Individuals learning about aromatherapy often study other fields of
alternative medicine or beauty services, such as general health and
nutrition, reflexology and massage therapy.
Special institutes not typically associated with colleges or
universities offer certificate programs in aromatherapy, which usually
consist of around 100-170 hours. Students may take 1-2 years to complete
the requirements. While some certificate programs use a hybrid format,
others have all of their classes online. Students receive online login
information so they can receive and submit course materials over the
Internet. Some programs provide new students with an orientation to
familiarize them with the online format.
Distance-learning students need access to a computer with high-speed
Internet. Instructors deliver lectures online and combine the
pre-recorded instruction with texts, webinars, homework and projects to
give students a comprehensive learning experience.
List of Courses in Aromatherapy
In addition to teaching students about the use and benefits of
essential oils, some certificate programs in aromatherapy cover human
anatomy and physiology. They might discuss certain systems of the body,
such as skeletal, muscular, nervous, digestive and circulatory systems.
Aromatherapy Introduction Course
This course introduces students to the most popular essential oils
used in aromatherapy and its modern practice. Topics covered include the
basic administration and therapeutic uses of essential oils.
Aromatherapy History Course
Students receive a comprehensive briefing in the origin, history and
contemporary practice of aromatherapy. This course prepares students for
careers as aromatherapists by introducing them to good client
practices, such as constructing and implementing personalized remedies,
conducting client interviews, taking heath histories, assessing energies
and asking for referrals.
Essential Oil Use Course
Instructors explain the uses of certain essential oils in-depth in
this hands-on course. Students study the oils' therapeutic benefits,
application methods, active ingredients and handling practices. They
learn how to extract, distill and utilize essential plant oils to mix
their own oils and create personal scents.
Aromatherapists find work in hotels, spas, resorts, cruise ships,
healing centers and health stores. Some professionals operate their own
private practices. The career offers an extremely flexible schedule with
opportunities in virtually every state. According to
Spabeautyed.com,
in 2007 aromatherapists could expect to earn $15,000-$45,000 per year.
The salary range depended on whether or not aromatherapy was
supplementary to another profession, such as massage therapy.
Continuing Education
Licensing and certification requirements aren't currently in place
for practicing aromatherapists, but professionals may choose to earn a
voluntary certification through such organizations as the National
Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. Although a certificate program in
aromatherapy is considered a terminal level, individuals who study
aromatherapy are often interested in other fields of alternative
medicine and nutrition. Students may pursue such options as an
associate's degree in massage therapy or a bachelor's degree in holistic
health.
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