First Degree training is quite simple (Shoden)

Shoden is about opening to the energy and learning the history of Reiki. 

Students will learn an introduction to reiki, time to meditate, have reiki empowerments and practice on each other, however the first degree does not entitle you to treat others at this stage.

Second Degree training (Okuden)

Okuden is about strenghtening your ability to channel, becoming familar with the different types of energy, have more Reiki empowerments, further meditation, practicing on other students which will help you to understand and importantly identify the difference in the energies that you will be working with. You will be taught further knowledge on practicing Reiki and guidance on how to continue you meditations on a daily basis.  After this stage you will be able to carry out your treatments on others.

Third degree training (Master)

The masters level is not necessary to practice Reiki on others, however it will give you a more indepth understaning of Reiki and once completed allow you to teach others the powers of Reiki and enable you to empower new learners of Reiki.