Tell me a bit of the history of WCCMT. How did the college get its start 35 years ago?
The West Coast College of Massage Therapy (WCCMT) is the birthplace of massage therapy education and the profession of registered massage therapy in British Columbia. It started with a dream by an RMT named John Ranney who was a graduate from The Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy (CCMH) in Ontario who wanted to create a school, like no other, for massage therapists in British Columbia. His dream came true when WCCMT first opened its doors in 1983. John’s dream became my dream when I joined the College in 1994.
How has the College evolved over the past 35 years?
Over the years WCCMT has evolved significantly. The initial campus was a small little school nestled in Chinatown in East Vancouver. Today WCCMT, which is located in the heart of New Westminster, is a free-standing 35,000 square foot school with nearly 200 students, 50 faculty and a Public Intern clinic that is open 7-days per week and treats approximately 1500 patients each month.
What do you think is behind WCCMT’s 35 years of success?
There has no doubt been challenges and obstacles along the way but it is the unfaltering commitment to excellence that is the driving force behind WCCMT’s ongoing success.
What sets WCCMT apart from other schools that offer massage therapy programs?
Obviously, our history – 35 years of proven success – is one thing but WCCMT also has an exceptional curriculum developed and evolved over many years and taught by an exceptionally qualified and credentialed faculty.
Please give me a bit of an idea of how WCCMT structures its courses. I understand there is a balance between theory and practical application. How is that achieved?
Our comprehensive program guides students through a curriculum that carefully integrates theory and practice. Classroom experience is complemented and supplemented with the best hands-on experience available through the College’s fully equipped Public Intern Clinic.
Are there any ways in which WCCMT is celebrating this milestone?
Yes, WCCMT will be celebrating our 35th birthday with a special all-years alumni reunion event on Friday May 25th, 2018.
Looking ahead, what is next for WCCMT?
We will continue to do what we have always done which is remain committed to delivering the best massage therapy education in North America.
Alumni who would like to learn more about our All-Years Reunion may click here.
