What Is It Known For?
Universal College of Healing Arts opened in Omaha in 1995 and has built its reputation around exceptional bodywork therapy programs over nearly three decades. This small institution maintains an intimate learning environment with enrollment between 14 to 27 students, allowing for personalized attention throughout your training.
The school focuses on combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical skills that prepare you for professional success in the healing arts. Their long-standing presence in Omaha demonstrates stability and commitment to quality education in the massage therapy field.
Degrees & Certifications
UCHA offers two program options to match your career goals:
- Massage Therapy Diploma – 12 months with three 15-week semesters
- Associate Degree in Applied Science – 5 semesters
The diploma program gets you working faster, while the associate degree provides broader education and potentially better career advancement opportunities in the healing arts field.
Class Schedules
The massage program uses a unique weekend intensive format that works well for students with weekday commitments. You attend 15 weekend sessions throughout the program, with online learning between each weekend.
Weekend classes run Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM and Sunday 9 AM to 4 PM. The program starts with Friday orientation from 1 PM to 6 PM before your first intensive weekend. You’ll need to dedicate 20 to 30 hours weekly, combining online study with onsite learning.
The school also provides supervised clinical practice opportunities for hands-on massage experience, though they don’t offer traditional evening classes during the week.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. UCHA has earned institutional accreditation from ABHES (the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools) and recognition from the US Department of Education.
Acceptance Rate
UCHA accepts 100% of applicants who meet its basic enrollment requirements.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Program costs vary based on your chosen path:
- Massage Therapy Diploma: $17,133.60
- Associate Degree (5 semesters): $26,479.20
Additional costs include clinical supplies, textbooks, and course materials that aren’t included in tuition. The school provides a net price calculator on its website to help you estimate your total expenses and plan your budget accordingly.
Programs & Courses
Healthcare
- Massage Therapy
Campus Locations
Omaha 8702 N 30th Street Omaha, Nebraska 68112
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the Universal College of Healing Arts (UCHA) is an exceptionally well-regarded institution, primarily praised for the high quality of its instruction and the tangible skills its graduates possess. The environment is frequently described as highly supportive and professional.
Overall Score: 4.9/5 Stars
Common Praises
Superior Quality of Graduates/Technique: The most notable praise is for the skill level of the students and alumni. Clients consistently say you can “ALWAYS tell someone is a graduate from this school” due to the quality of their bodywork. Even a former massage school student who received a treatment from a UCHA student noted the exceptional technique, stating, “this guy knew his stuff.”
Supportive and Positive Atmosphere: Reviewers describe the environment as their “happy place” and praise the experienced staff, noting that the management promotes a “peaceful and quiet environment.”
Life-Changing Experience and Personal Growth: For students, the experience goes beyond technical skill. Graduates state it was the “best decision I’ve made for my future,” emphasizing that the school is also about “getting to know yourself.”
Flexible and Well-Organized: Students appreciate the “flexible hybrid program” that makes learning possible for those with other obligations. The school is also described as having “solid organization” and being helpful with administrative items like applying for state licensing.
Common Criticisms
Minor Scheduling Inconsistencies: The only criticism noted in the recent reviews relates to an administrative detail concerning services provided to the public. One person stated that the hours listed on the website “dont match what I was told on the phone when I called,” which prevented them from booking a student massage. This is a minor issue and does not concern the quality of the education.
Momentum
The momentum for the Universal College of Healing Arts is extremely strong and consistently excellent. The 4.9-star average is sustained by recent, enthusiastic 5-star reviews from both satisfied clients and appreciative alumni. The school’s core competency—teaching advanced massage and healing techniques—is repeatedly validated, and there are no significant concerns to suggest a decline in quality.