The following essay is presented to newly ranked black belts by Sensei Philip Rasmussen.  Read it carefully as it discusses some of the philosophical responsibilities of black belts. 

Higher Rank Charts

The techniques learned for Shodan provide students with basic jujitsu knowledge and application. The higher ranks, Nidan and above, require students to perform at a higher level that integrates previously learned techniques into smooth flowing defenses. In addition, these higher ranks require additional techniques, knowledge in kata (forms), teaching, first aid, defenses from various positions, and more in-depth study of jujitsu and the martial arts to name a few. 

The techniques to be learned are more specific than in the kyu and Shodan ranks. Time in grade at each rank is also longer, allowing the student to become more proficient and to learn the required information.

The following chart and outlines summarize the higher level ranks. They should be used as a guide for instructors and students. Specific techniques have not been identified. It is the responsibility of the instructor to select the appropriate techniques for these ranks.

USJA JuJitsu Rank Requirements
Nidan and Sandan Ranks

USJA JuJitsu Rank Requirements
Nidan (2nd degree Black Belt)

1. Time in grade – Minimum of one (1) year as a Jujitsu Shodan.

2. Training in CPR and general first aid, or 5 Kappo Techniques.

3. Perform one (1) martial arts kata with a minimum of ten (10) moves. You may demonstrate any standard kata (Jujitsu, Judo, Karate, weapons, etc.) or develop your own kata.

4. Ability to teach jujitsu arts up to and including Sankyu (3rd Kyu) level.

5. Demonstrate proficient use of a weapon, either traditional or modern (knife, staff, tonfa, gun, other)

6. Ten (10) defenses from each of the following positions
        5 kneeling (traditional) and/or sitting in a chair (modern)
        5 prone and/or supine position.

7. Three (3) defenses against 2 attackers.

8. Twelve (12) defenses, minimum, against weapons.3 knife
        3 handgun
        3 club and
        3 other (using previous weapons or others)

9. Four (4) additional throws for a total of 16 throws3 shoulder or back throws
        3 hip throws
        3 leg/foot sweeps
        7 additional throws of any type

10. Five (5) additional strikes for a total of 20 strikes
    Identify 10 body target areas
    Demonstrate 2 different types of strikes relating to each target area

11. Four (4) additional choke holds for a total of 12 choke holds3 front chokes
         3 rear chokes
         3 without holding onto opponent’s clothing
         3 other chokes of your choice

12. Ability to explain the difference between a bar-arm choke (trachea hold) and a carotid choke (side neck hold). How both work and the dangers associated with both.

13. Six (6) additional joint locks for a total of sixteen (16) joint locking or breaking techniques
         3 finger 
         2 neck
         3 wrist 
         2 knee
         3 elbow/arm 
         3 other

14. Six (6) additional choke escapes for a total of twelve 12 choke escapes
         4 from front choke 
         2 from chokes on the ground
         4 from rear chokes 
         2 other choke escapes 

15. Three (3) additional defensive strikes for a total of eighteen (18) defensives against strikes3 against straight punch
         3 against a hook/roundhouse punch
         2 against a jab type punch
         2 against combination strikes, right-left punches.
         2 against a front kick
         2 against other types of kicks
         4 other (using previous attacks or other types).

16. Ten (10) additional instructor directed techniques.

USJA JuJitsu Rank Requirements
Sandan (3rd degree Black Belt)

1. Time in grade - minimum of two (2) years as a Jujitsu Nidan.

2. All requirements for Nidan plus the following additional items.

3. Ability to teach jujitsu arts up to and including Shodan (1st degree black belt) level.

4. Ability to demonstrate proficient use of one additional weapon, students choice of weapon (knife, bo-staff, jo-staff, tonfa, sword, other)

5. One (1) additional martial arts kata with a minimum of fifteen (15) moves (jujitsu kata, judo kata, karate kata, weapons kata, or "own" kata).

6. Four (4) additional throws, student’s choice.

7. Five (5) counters to being thrown.

8. Ten (10) combination techniques. Each combination must include the following elements in any order of use:

   1. One (1) Atemi/strike;

   2. One (1) throw/takedown; and

   3. One (1) control hold, joint lock/break, arm bar, or choke.

9. Five (5) escapes from ground holds. Student’s choice of holds and escapes.

10. Give a short oral or written presentation on the history and principles of jujitsu.

11. A basic understanding of the human anatomy; major bones, muscle groups and vital areas.