College of DuPagetitlebar

Program Guide

Catalog Home

Click here to request a catalog or other information about College of DuPage.


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1100
Introduction to Palpation and Superficial Anatomy

1 credit hour
Orientation to skills and knowledge that are fundamental to the prospective massage therapist. The major superficial muscles and bony landmarks of the body are introduced. Basic palpation skills are developed through exercises and hands-on activities. Proper client draping and therapist body mechanics are also included. (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1101
Introduction to Massage Therapy and Bodywork

1 credit hour
Overview of massage therapy as a profession and career choice. Topics to include definition, history and philosophy of massage therapy, ethics, professional licensure and career opportunities. (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1102
Fundamental Massage Techniques

4 credit hours
Exploration of basic massage techniques for each segment of the body and combination of routines into a full-body general massage. Traditional massage strokes, passive stretches, the development of touch and pressure sensitivity, clinical precautions and sanitation practices are included. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1100 (3 lecture hours, 2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1103
Physiological Basis of Massage

4 credit hours
Overview of the structure and function of the major systems of the human body relevant to massage therapy with emphasis on the musculo-skeletal and nervous systems. (3.5 lecture hours, 1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1104
Major Muscles and Movement

5 credit hours
The scientific study of movement that emphasizes the origin, insertion and action of the major muscles of the human body. Therapeutic Massage 1100 recommended (4.5 lecture hours, 1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1105
Concepts of Holistic Health

1 credit hour
Critical discussion, analysis and integration of therapeutic massage modalities and philosophies related to topics in wellness. (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1107
Range of Motion in Massage

1 credit hour
Overview of client assessment protocol and range of motion techniques that reduce pain, increase joint mobility and promote relaxation. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1102 and 1104 (2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1108
Professional Practice in Massage Therapy

1 credit hour
Introduction to the business side of building a successful massage practice applicable for the small business owner, employee or independent contractor. Topics include bookkeeping and taxes, marketing, problems and pitfalls, contractual agreements, and professional practice standards. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1100, 1102, 1103 and 1104 or consent of isntructor (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1111
Documentation for Massage Therapists

2 credit hours
Client interview, assessment, treatment planning, and progress note-writing formats. Legal and confidentiality aspects of documentation and reimbursement guidelines are included. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1102, 1104, 1107, 1108 and 1112 or consent of instructor (2 lecture hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1112
Myofascial Massage

3 credit hours
Orientation to the application of deep, broad pressure and stretching forces to the myofascial tissues that connect all body structures together. Students learn to elongate shortened and adhered tissues in strategic areas to affect changes in tissue texture and improve circulation. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1102, 1103, 1104 and 1107 or consent of instructor (2 lecture hours, 2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1120
Clinical Experience in Massage Therapy I

1 credit hour
Clinical experience in the application of massage therapy skills. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1121
Clinical Experience In Massage Therapy II

1 credit hour
Clinical experience in the application of massage therapy skills. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1136
Prenatal Massage Techniques

1 credit hour
Orientation to the structural changes in a woman’s body that occur throughout a full-term pregnancy. Tension reduction techniques and massage precautions are included. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1102 and 1103 (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1138
Geriatric Massage Techniques

0.5 credit hour
Exploration of common geriatric ailments and the psychological and sociological issues that impact the elderly client. Modifications of client interactions, assessments and treatment techniques for the elderly are emphasized. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1102 (0.5 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1139
Introduction to Skin Diseases

0.5 credit hour
Identification of common dermatological conditions encountered in a massage/bodywork practice. Clinical precautions to be taken with inflammatory skin diseases, cancerous lesions and infections are emphasized. (0.5 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1140
Basic Seated Massage Techniques

0.5 credit hour
Exploration of adaptations of massage techniques necessary for clients in seated, as opposed to the traditional table massage positioning. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1102 (0.5 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1141
Introduction to Sports Massage Techniques

2 credit hours
Theory and principles of sports massage including the cycle of injury and guidelines for preventing injury to sports participants. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1102 (2 lecture hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1142
Positional Release and Massage

1 credit hour
Instruction in exaggerating distorted postural patterns for the purpose of releasing tension and pain, and restoring normal posture. Positional techniques are combined with traditional massage to reduce stress. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1102 (0.5 lecture hour, 1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1143
Active Isolated Stretching

0.5 credit hour
Exploration of the manual technique that isolates muscles that are to be stretched by contracting the opposing muscles. Includes range of motion as a warm-up and cool down for exercising. (0.5 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1144
Art of Intuitive Massage

0.5 credit hour
Swedish massage technique course that includes long, lengthening strokes, gentle rocking and stretching, passive joint movement, deep muscle sculpting, acupressure points and cranial balancing. Students learn the contribution of ambient elements like lighting and sensory feedback to the massage experience. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1102 (1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1148
Pressure Sensitivity Techniques

0.5 credit hour
Refinement of student’s ability to assess a client’s tissue tone and texture through manipulation. Includes advanced techniques in intuitively modifying pressure application. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1102 (1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1152
Introduction to Ortho-Bionomy

1 credit hour
Overview of Ortho-Bionomy philosophy and principles which place the body in positions of comfort to reduce pain and release muscular tension and overall stress. (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1153
Introduction to Jin Shin Do Bodymind Accupressure

1 credit hour
Exploration of Jin Shin Do system, which is a blend of deep accupressure, bodymind awareness and Taoist theory that uses specific meridian release patterns. (2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1154
Introduction to Shiatsu

1 credit hour
Exploration of the 10 channels and functions of Shiatsu, which uses finger pressure along channels and specific points to relieve blockages and restore balance. (0.5 lecture hour, 1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1155
Introduction to Cranio-Sacral Techniques

1 credit hour
Overview of the anatomy and physiology of the cranio-sacral system and how to use light touch to address system imbalances. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1107 or consent of instructor (0.5 lecture hour, 1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1158
Presence, Energy and Intention

0.5 credit hour
Importance of combining clinical knowledge, intuition and personal attributes in order to develop a rapport with clients and optimize treatment sessions. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1102 (0.5 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1161
Introduction to Reflexology

1 credit hour
Overview of the theories and principles of Reflexology, to include the study of the specific reflex areas on the hands and feet. (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 1840
Independent Study – Individualized

1 to 4 credit hours
Exploration and analysis of topics within the discipline to meet individual student-defined course description, goals, objectives, topical outline and methods of evaluation in coordination with and approved by the instructor. May be taken three times for credit as long as different topics are selected. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor (1 to 4 lecture hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2106
Body/Mind Connection in Health

2 credit hours
Exploration of the connection between soft tissue manipulations and the powerful emotional responses and shifts in mental attitudes that accompany them. Discussion of touch as one of the principle elements necessary for the successful development and functioning of the central nervous system. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1102 and 1103 (2 lecture hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2109
Deep Tissue Massage Techniques

4 credit hours
Orientation to deep tissue massage techniques. Addresses trigger points and other myofascial problems. Clinical reasoning skills in the selection and application of appropriate techniques are emphasized. Prerequisite: Completion of the basic massage therapy certificate or consent of instructor (3 lecture hours, 2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2110
Somatic Techniques

0.5 credit hour
Exploration of neuromuscular re-education techniques. Based on the idea that movement reflexes are triggered by our sensory nervous system, students learn to combine isolated muscle resistance in conjunction with yoga-like breathing to relieve chronic muscle tension. Prerequisite: Completion of the basic massage therapy certificate or consent of instructor (1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2111
Case Studies in Massage Therapy

1 credit hour
Analysis and discussion of clinical scenarios provides students with an opportunity to integrate theoretical, scientific and professional knowledge to be able to creatively solve real-life practice dilemmas. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 2106, 2109 and 2110 or equivalent or consent of instructor (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2112
Survey of Bodywork Styles

1 credit hour
Survey of complementary/alternative medicine techniques that may be studied and practiced independently or combined with massage therapy. Students gain insight into the many non-traditional treatment options available to address their client’s symptoms.


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2124
Spa Massage Techniques I

2 credit hours
Exploration of the purposes and benefits of a variety of spa techniques including aromatherapy and body wraps. Prerequisite: Completion of the basic massage certificate or consent of instructor (2 lecture hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2125
Spa Massage Techniques II

1 credit hour
Exploration of techniques used in spa settings that includes hot rock and Jin Shin Do® facial treatment. (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2126
Spa Massage Techniques III

1 credit hour
Exploration of the application of a full body hot rock massage. Prerequisite: Completion of the basic massage certificate or consent of instructor (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2131
Spiral Synergy I

1 credit hour
Basic principles, skills, and techniques that are the foundation of the Spiral Synergy approach. Prerequisite: Completion of the basic massage certificate or consent of instructor (2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2132
Spiral Synergy II

1 credit hour
Exploration of concepts such as chakras, morphogenic fields, and channeling as they apply to Spiral Synergy work. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 2131 with a grade of “D” or better or equivalent (2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2133
Spiral Synergy III

1 credit hour
Use of neurolymphatic and neurovascular reflexes in treatment sessions. Re-education movements and static and dynamic postural considerations are also included. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 2132 with a grade of “D” or better or equivalent (2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2134
Spiral Synergy IV

1 credit hour
Exploration of working with trauma patterns using the Spiral Synergy techniques of mental patterns and auras. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 2133 or equivalent (2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2140
Advanced Seated Massage

3 credit hours
Advanced massage and bodywork approaches which have been modified to be applied to fully clothed clients in a seated position. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1140 or equivalent (2 lecture hours, 2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2141
Clinical Experience in Seated Massage

0.5 credit hours
Application of seated massage techniques to clients in a clinical setting under supervision. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 2140 or equivalent or consent of instructor (2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2147
Advanced Sports Massage

1 credit hour
Sport-specific presentation of assessment and massage techniques for use in injury rehabilitation and off-season maintenance of athletes. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1141 and 2109 or equivalent or consent of instructor (0.5 lecture hour, 1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2149
Pathology and Massage Therapy

3 credit hours
Discussion of application of massage and other bodywork techniques to address common neuromuscular injuries. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1112 or 2109 or equivalent (3 lecture hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2152
Advanced Ortho-Bionomy

1 credit hour
Continued studies of a subtler level of Ortho-Bionomy® techniques which include an exploration of energetic movement patterns and work with the energy field around the body.Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1152 or equivalent (1 lecture hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2153
Intermediate Jin Shin Do Bodymind Accupressure

2 credit hours
Acupressure protocols applied to organ meridians with emphasis on psycho-physical associations, local-distal point theory, and counseling techniques within the context of acupressure practice. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 1153 or equivalent (1 lecture hour, 2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2154
Advanced Jin Shin Do Bodymind Acupressure

2 credit hours
Continued studies of Jin Shin Do® acupressure theory and techniques. Advanced concepts of traditional Chinese medicine are discussed. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 2153 or equivalent (1.5 lecture hours, 1 lab hour)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2161
Advanced Reflexology

3 credit hours
Advanced Reflexology techniques for common conditions encountered in practice. Prerequisites: Therapeutic Massage 1139 and 1161 or equivalent, basic massage therapy certificate or consent of instructor (2 lecture hours, 2 lab hours)


THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE 2162
Clinical Experience in Reflexology

0.5 credit hours
Application of Reflexology techniques to clients in a clinical setting under supervision. Prerequisite: Therapeutic Massage 2161 or equivalent, basic massage therapy certificate or consent of instructor (2 clinical hours)



To the top