Program Overview

Program Overview

The UNC Charlotte Master of Science in Respiratory Science (MSRC) program is designed for dedicated respiratory therapists seeking to advance their careers. This 100% online, 30-credit program equips students with advanced knowledge and skills to thrive in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Program Highlights

• Advance expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge in leadership, evidence-based practice, research, and disease management.
• Develop leadership skills: Prepare for roles in clinical leadership, educational leadership, and more.
• Stay relevant: Keep pace with the growing demands of the field, including complex patient care and inter-professional collaboration.
• Meet industry standards: Equip yourself for the future of respiratory therapy, aligning with the American Association of Respiratory Cares vision.

Program Details

The program is offered by the College of Health and Human Services.

Respiratory Care, M.S. at a Glance

• Delivery: Online
• Credits: 30 Credit Hours
• Admits: Summer & Fall
• Courses:
  • RESP 5101: Health Outcomes and Quality Assessment (3)
  • RESP 6101: Respiratory Care Leadership (3)
  • RESP 6104: Health Policy, Law & Ethics in the Health Professions (3)
  • RESP 6105: Pulmonary Function Testing & Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation (3)
  • RESP 6106: Mechanical Ventilation Application & Monitoring (3)
  • RESP 6110: Cardiopulmonary Disease Management (3)
  • RESP 6111: Patient-Centered Care in Cardiopulmonary Disease (3)
  • RESP 6115: Research Methods for Respiratory Care (3)
  • RESP 6804: Respiratory Care Capstone (3)
  • RESP 6601: Emerging Issues in Respiratory Care Seminar (3)
  • OR NURS 6282: Interprofessional Collaboration in Healthcare (3)
• Total: 30 credit hours

Admissions & Requirements

Admission requirements include:

• Complete and submit an application via the Graduate School's admission system.
• Bachelors degree in Respiratory Therapy, related science, or social science from a regionally accredited college or university.
• GPA 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (achieving and maintaining the RRT Credential offered by the National Board of Respiratory Care).
• Current state license to practice Respiratory Therapy.
• Professional experience consisting of at least 2 years of clinical Respiratory Therapy practice.
• Current Resume.
• Written statement of purpose describing the applicants educational goals and expectations of the program.
• Two letters of recommendation from individuals with academic or professional knowledge of the applicants capabilities.

Application Deadlines

• Priority Application Deadlines:
  • July 15 (fall)
  • May 1 (summer)

Outlook

A Masters degree can significantly enhance career prospects. Graduates of UNC Charlottes MSRC program are employed as Directors of Respiratory Therapy and Respiratory Therapy Supervisors. Respiratory care practitioners, managers, supervisors, and directors can expect strong job growth and increased compensation.

Why Choose UNC Charlottes MSRC Program?

The program includes benefits such as:

• Rigorous curriculum: Gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the chosen career path.
• Developed by experienced respiratory therapists: Learn from faculty who understand challenges and aspirations.
• Tailored to working professionals: Benefit from flexible online learning and a supportive community.

Tuition

• NC Resident: $309.59 per credit hour
• Non-Resident: $1,186.59 per credit hour
• College of Health & Human Services Fee: $55.56 per credit hour

Accreditation

The MSRC degree advancement program at UNC Charlotte is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.

Early Entry Option

Exceptional undergraduate students in UNC Charlottes Respiratory Care program may apply to the Early Entry Program to begin work toward a Masters in Respiratory Care graduate degree before completion of the bachelors degree.