I just want to learn to massage and don’t want to work professionally… 

Qualifications inevitably include subject areas that are vocationally related such as Anatomy & Physiology, and Health & Safety. These are essential units for professional practice, but can put off potential students who would just like to learn how to perform a therapy for friends or family.

Even in the scenario there are obvious benefits to completing the entire qualification including all of the units. However, it is possible to join a nationally recognised course, and just complete the practical unit. You can still gain the award for the unit achieved, however without the other units you will not gain the full Certificate or Diploma, and you will not be able to work professionally.