man giving a woman a back massage

Amateur Workshops for All Skill Levels

College of DuPage offers beginner-friendly massage classes designed for all skill levels. Whether you're simply curious or looking to learn practical massage techniques, our Bring Your Own Partner (BYOP) courses are the perfect place to start.

Taught by licensed massage therapists, these hands-on classes will show you how to give safe, satisfying, and effective massages — no prior experience needed. You’ll learn foundational techniques in a supportive, professional environment.

Thinking about a career in massage therapy? Explore our Massage Therapy Licensure Program to take the next step toward becoming a licensed professional.

What to Expect

Classes are designed with your comfort, privacy and success in mind:

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for free movement.
  • All supplies are provided, and classes take place in our dedicated massage therapy classroom.
  • Privacy is respected — each massage station is equipped with curtains, and participants will only work with the partner they registered with.

Join us at COD and experience hands-on learning from industry professionals in a welcoming environment.

Upcoming Classes

Relaxation Massage with Oil

Learn a basic routine under the guidance of a professional massage therapy instructor in our private classroom massage stations. Discover techniques for soothing relaxation and pain relief while being instructed in safe practices. This hands-on workshop is intended to improve your amateur at-home skills for massaging bare skin. Sheets and massage oil will be provided. Please wear flexible clothing you can move in. Participants are required to register in pairs. Instructor: Phil Hinton

Part One: Foundations and Back Sequence
Saturday, Feb. 7
1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
BMAST-0601-001, $65
SRC 1131

Part Two: Arms and Legs
Saturday, Feb. 28
Note: please bring your oil bottle from the previous class.
1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
BMAST-0601-010, $60
SRC 1131

Reiki Level I

Discover the healer within. Learn about energy healing in a variety of ways, focusing on the importance of energetic self-care and how it impacts the way we serve others. Explore the traditional and Western aspects of Reiki, including hands-on Reiki self-treatment, aura cleansing, shielding, protection, Reiki meditation, basics of the chakra system, the five guided principles of Reiki, and simple steps to living in harmony with grace and ease. All are welcome to take this class for personal or professional interest. 

You will receive an illustrated manual covering the techniques we practice in class, along with your Reiki lineage. After completing this training, you will receive your Reiki I certification. (7 CE hours) Instructor: Shannon Chada

Saturday, March 14
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
BMAST-0541-001, $175
SRC 1131

Reiki Level II

Let your inner healer step forth. This hands-on training guides you to be an authentic Reiki Practitioner. While exploring Reiki for emotional, menta, physical and social aspects, you will discover energetic communication, learn how to create and maintain a sacred space, and perform a full-body Reiki treatment in a hands-on experience with others. We will discuss how to set up a professional Reiki practice if you are drawn to do so, but those with no intention of going into business are welcome to this course as well. 

You will receive an illustrated manual covering the techniques we practice in class, and your Reiki II certification. (6.5 CE hours) Instructor: Shannon Chada

Sunday, March 15
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
BMAST-0542-001, $250
SRC 1131

Kitchen Table Massage

Does this scenario sound familiar? Your loved one has had a rough day and you look over to see them trying to rub their own sore muscles; all you want to do is help ease that pain. This class will provide easy-to-learn but effective techniques to offer a quick 5-10 minute pick-up massage without any need for special equipment or undressing. You can offer quick relief right at the kitchen table with these techniques for the head, neck, shoulders, arms, and back. Register with a friend or family member. Students will only be massaging the person they enrolled with, and all attendees must be registered. Instructor: Phil Hinton

Saturday, March 21
1 to 6 p.m.
BMAST-0602-001, $40
SRC 1131

Reflexology: Easy Feet

This technique promotes well-being throughout the body when applied to hands and feet. Learn the history of reflexology and receive a hand and foot chart to take home for reference. This technique is applied with light pressure to specific points on the hands and feet. (7 CE hours) Instructor: Phil Hinton

Saturday, April 18
10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
BMAST-0503-001, $220
SRC 1131

Partner Stretching and Clothed Massage

Learn fully-clothed massage techniques without the use of oil or a special table. Explore skills that address common conditions such as tight shoulders and low back pain without fatiguing your hands. Participants are required to register in pairs. Instructor: Alice Axt-Pilon

Sunday, April 26
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
BMAST-0605-001, $40
HEC 0001

Contact Information

Continuing Education
Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1110
(630) 942-2208
Fax: (630) 942-3785
Email: CE@cod.edu

Front Desk Hours
  • Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Office hours may vary due to holidays and staff coverage.