Associate Degree in Respiratory Care

Program Overview

The Associate of Science in Respiratory Care program prepares students for careers as respiratory therapists in high-demand healthcare settings. The intensive program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass national credentialing exams and emphasizes emergency and critical care situations, state-of-the-art technology use, bedside patient care, and interacting with patients of various ages and medical conditions. Graduates are in high demand due to the increasing prevalence of respiratory conditions and can find employment in various healthcare settings.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Associate of Science in Respiratory Care degree prepares graduates for careers as respiratory therapists in high-demand healthcare settings. The intensive program is offered in partnership with the Franklin Technology Center and equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass national credentialing exams.

Objectives:

• Equip students with effective communication skills within healthcare settings.
• Impart clinical competencies essential for entry into respiratory care practice.
• Instill ethical and professional conduct.
• Develop sound judgment for functioning in healthcare environments.
• Train students to perform clinical skills proficiently.
• Foster critical thinking abilities for knowledge application, appropriate patient care, and adaptation to changing clinical conditions.

Program Description:

The program emphasis areas include:

• Emergency and critical care situations
• State-of-the-art technology use
• Bedside patient care

Careers:

Respiratory therapists are in high demand due to the increasing prevalence of respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, bronchitis, emphysema, heart disease, and sleep disorders. Graduates can find employment in various healthcare settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Nursing homes
• Hospice care
• Home healthcare agencies