Certified Heilmasseurs or Medizinischer Masseurs in Austria looking to advance their career may continue their education at Alma Mater Europaea University, Vienna Location, to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy in 20 months.

1. Medical Masseur and Heilmasseur Training in Austria

Massage education in Austria is regulated by the Medizinischer Masseur- und Heilmasseurgesetz (MMHmG), the Federal Law governing massage professions.

Medizinischer Masseur

• Total duration: 1,690 contact hours, divided into:
  • Theoretical instruction: approx. 815 hours
  • Clinical internships and practical training: approx. 875 hours

• Must pass a final examination
• May treat patients only on physician referral and under supervision

Heilmasseur

• Additional training after becoming a Medical Masseur
• Total duration: 800 contact hours, including:
  • Theoretical modules: approx. 260 hours
  • Internship and advanced practical training: approx. 540 hours
• Grants more autonomy in massage therapy, but still requires physician referral for treatment

2. Pathway to a Physiotherapy Degree

At Alma Mater Europaea University, Vienna Location, your prior training as a Medical Masseur or Heilmasseur will be formally recognized under our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.

3. What is Recognized?

Depending on your qualifications and experience, you will typically be awarded about 40 to 60 ECTS credits toward the 180 ECTS required for a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy.

4. Shortened Study Duration

Most students admitted through this pathway complete their Physiotherapy degree in 20 months, equivalent to two academic years. For example, a student who starts university studies in October 2025, graduates around June 2027. After graduation, a graduate will work in  a clinic in Austria for six months and pass the Professional Qualification Exam at the Ministry of Health in Ljubljana, Slovenia in their language (German, English, Italian, etc.)

5. Requirements

To be accepted for studies at Alma Mater, all candidates need a completed high school and Matura. This applies to every candidate including Hailmasseurs or Medical Masseurs.

6. Application Process & Deadlines

To start your journey from Heilmasseur to Physiotherapist, please follow these steps:

1. Submit your application. Final deadline: 31 August.

2. Include and upload all documents, diplomas, certificates and grades from your previous education including matura and Heimasseur training. Add poroof of internships, work experience, and continuing education.

3. The process is free for those who enrol. You will Pay the Recognition Committee Procedure Fee €300. It will be deducted from your tuition. If you do not enrol, it is non-refundable.

4. Committee Review and Decision. Within 30 days, the RPL Committee will:

• Review your documents
• Confirm which AMEU courses you have already fulfilled
• Issue an individualized study plan tailored to your background

Ready to Begin?

Take the next step in your professional development. Transition from licensed massage professional to academic Physiotherapist—with recognition of your existing expertise.

Join our Info Days!

If you have questions, please contact our admissions team at vienna@almamater.at