Spring 2026 Basic Self-Defense Course

Registration is now open for the spring 2026 Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) training, which will take place over the course of three days in April.

The RAD approach to personal safety education embodies a practical blend of threat avoidance strategies and real-world assault resistance. This program is designed for the average person with no previous experience or background in physical skills training, and those who participate in the course will have an opportunity to practice their skills during the last session.

Time Commitment

This is a 12-hour course taught over three days. Please commit to attending all three sessions if you register for the course.

Benefits

  • Learn about helpful resources and support available in your local community

  • Learn bystander intervention skills

  • Improve situational and self-awareness

  • Learn various tools to deter, de-escalate, and resist physically threatening situations

How to Register: Spring 2026 Basic Self-Defense Course

  • Who: Registration for this training is open to women only as the course includes strategies, tactics, and hands-on physical practice. UI students, employees, and those with no affiliation are welcome to register.

  • When: April 13, 20, and 27th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. *Please note this is a 12-hour course taught over three days.

  • Where: 880 University Capitol Centre (UCC), 200 S. Capitol St. Iowa City, IA 52242

  • To register: Please call the Campus Safety Service Center at 319-384-2797 during normal business hours to get on the list. The $20 registration fee includes a RAD manual and T-shirt. Please be prepared to commit to all three sessions if you register for the training.

RAD is taught at over 1,400 colleges and universities, private, municipal, state and federal agencies by more than 6,000 instructors. More information can be found at the RAD Systems website.

Additional training opportunities

Campus Safety offers many free and low-cost training programs to campus and the community. To learn more, visit our training request page.

Monday, April 27, 2026 5:00pm to 9:00pm
Monday, April 13, 2026 5:00pm to 9:00pm
Monday, April 20, 2026 5:00pm to 9:00pm
University Capitol Centre
880
200 South Capitol Street, Iowa City, IA 52240
View on Event Calendar
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa–sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Hayley Bruce in advance at 319-384-0072 or hayley-bruce@uiowa.edu.