| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-05-01 | - |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Respiratory Therapy program at Tacoma Community College is a 2-year Associate in Applied Sciences degree program that prepares students to become Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT). Graduates are eligible to take the Clinical Simulation exam to earn their Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. The program includes summer classes during the first year and requires students to meet specific physical, mental, and social capabilities, as well as background checks and immunizations.
Program Outline
Careers:
Respiratory Therapy Program
About Respiratory therapists treat a range of patients, from premature infants whose lungs are not fully developed to elderly people with lung disease. They evaluate, monitor, and treat breathing disorders and cardiovascular problems, such as asthma and emphysema. They give patients oxygen, manage ventilators, and administer drugs to the lungs. As a respiratory therapist, you’ll work under the direction of a physician in this growing field. You’ll find employment in a variety of settings, including:
- Acute/critical care hospitals
- Extended care facilities
- Outpatient clinics
- Private physicians' offices
- Sleep studies
- Pulmonary function testing
- Equipment sales
Program Description
The 2-year Respiratory Therapy program leads to an Associate in Applied Sciences degree, Respiratory Therapy. Program graduates are eligible to take the Therapist Multiple Choice (TMC) examination administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care to earn certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Students may then become eligible to take the Clinical Simulation to earn their Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. There are also specific requirements for background checks and immunizations. Find out more about what it takes to succeed as a respiratory therapist. Students must complete prerequisites before applying to this program. Please note that this seven-quarter program requires students to attend summer classes during their first year.