Our 700-hour program goes beyond the basics of massage therapy skills, connecting anatomy and pathology to hands-on techniques in a program of 15 courses that can be taken on a part-time or full-time basis for completion in 1-2 years.
We offer three start dates per year:
- February – evening classes (5:30 start) Monday-Thursday, occasional Saturdays
- June – afternoon classes (3:30 start) Monday-Thursday
- September – morning classes (8:45 start) Monday-Thursday, occasional Fridays
Why Choose COD
Get hands-on experience and practical training that prepares you to thrive as a massage therapist.
Wholistic Teaching
Our teachers make student success their number one priority. We are committed to reaching each student where they’re at and helping everyone reach their full potential during their time here. We do not give up on students who don’t give up on themselves. Our promise is proven by our 95% pass rate in 2024 on the national board exam for massage therapists, the MBLEx.
Industry Leader
Our program holds the highest standards for professionalism not only in technique, with our advanced training in therapeutic skills, but also in communication and business acumen. Our graduates lead the field in caring, compassionate customer service and the ability to tailor each massage to every client’s needs and preferences.
This is the program that will train the massage therapists that massage therapists want to go to.
Former Massage Therapy Student
First Steps
Students are required to attend an Information Session, or meet with the Program Manager, prior to registering for classes. Topics covered include course logistics, career expectations and an overview of massage therapy curriculum. Information sessions are free and registration is required. Register to attend the next information session.
WIOA Grant
COD's Massage Therapy Licensure Program has been approved for the federal WIOA grant. You are encouraged to apply with workNet DuPage to see if you qualify for a grant of up to $10,000. The process takes approximately 6 to 10 weeks, so apply early.
Program Registration Information
There are no pre-requisite courses; enrollment requires either a high school diploma or GED, and students must be 18 years of age by their date of graduation.
These non-credit courses do not qualify for FAFSA loans. Visit our financial options page to learn about payment plans and alternative loans.
Register Using Instant Enrollment
Curriculum Highlights
- Massage techniques include specific protocols for common pain patterns, neuromuscular and trigger point therapies, pre- and post-event sports massage, and Swedish and spa modalities
- Muscular and general anatomy are taught in successive levels of depth across three semesters, ensuring multiple exposures to all important information
- Communication skills for confidence and professionalism
- A semester-long business class to prepare students for all career possibilities
- Built-in exam prep class, reviewing all content for the MBLEx licensure exam
- In-house Student Clinic for experience working with clients from the general public right here on campus
Course Overviews
Get an overview of massage course offerings.
Entry Level Courses
Learn about the massage profession and its place in the larger healthcare and wellness fields. Experience an introduction to the diversity of spa treatments often offered alongside massage therapy.
Required Textbook: Massage Mastery ebook (included in course fees)
Gain an introduction to medical and massage terminology, and begin your study of musculoskeletal anatomy. This course is a prerequisite for MT-Anatomy and Physiology and MT-Techniques II.
Required Textbook: Applied Anatomy & Physiology for Manual Therapists, Archer & Nelson
Learn a basic Swedish massage sequence as well as draping and positioning protocols. Observe proper body mechanics. Discuss cautions and contraindications.
Course is prerequisite for all other Technique classes.
Onsite/Chair Massage as well as Sports Massage techniques appropriate for fully clothed, pre- and post-event work.
Pre- or concurrent Tech-1 required.
Learn business principles for massage therapy practice, including policies, business structures, and marketing.
Required Textbook: Business Mastery, Sohnen-Moe
Level Two Courses
Learn the origins, insertions, & actions of all muscles of the human body. Palpation skills are also practiced. Prerequisites: BMAST-0101 and BMAST-0105 or permission of Program Manager.
Required Textbooks: Trail Guide to the Body, Biel; Visible Body Courseware subscription
A&P as it relates to the practice of Massage Therapy, with an emphasis on the systems of the body on which massage has a direct effect. Pre-req is MT-Anatomical Terminology or permission of program manager.
Course is prerequisite for MT-Pathophysiology.
Techniques II (80 hours)
Advanced skills of deep tissue, neuromuscular therapy, and myofascial release are
taught and practiced. Prerequisites: Tech-1 and pre- or concurrent Muscles & Movement.
Required Textbooks: Visible Body Courseware subscription
Client intake procedures including assessment, health history interview, treatment planning, and charting skills. Pre-req: MT- Tech 1.
This course is a pre-requisite for MT- Student Clinic.
Level Three Courses
Study the functional changes that accompany injuries, disorders, and disease states as they relate to massage therapy. Pre-req: A&P or permission of Program Manager.
Required Textbook: A Massage Therapist’s Guide to Pathology, Werner
A combination of lecture and practical instruction on the treatments for the most common soft-tissue conditions encountered in a massage therapy practice. Pre-requisites: Muscles & Movements and MT-Tech II; pre- or concurrent with Pathophysiology.
Required Textbook: Condition Specific Massage Therapy, Bucci
After Completing Coursework
- Apply for MBLEx Licensing Exam
- Notify the Program Manager to request verification of education
- This test can be taken before graduation date – schedule it whenever you feel ready
- Apply for Licensure with State(s) in which you intend to practice.
- Notify Program Manager and request transcripts as directed by each state’s formal process.
- Illinois application can be found with the Division of Professional Regulation.
Options and Flexibility
Monthly payment plans are available. Flexible program sequence and extended course of studies are available upon discussion with program manager. For more information, contact us at (630) 942-2208 or email ce@cod.edu.
Contact Information
Continuing Education
Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1110
(630) 942-2208
Fax: (630) 942-3785
Email: CE@cod.edu
- Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.