Program Overview
Introduction to the Respiratory Therapy Program
The School of Health Sciences at Dalhousie University offers a four-year Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc) degree program in Respiratory Therapy. This program includes theory and practice, with a concentration on respiratory therapy specific skills.
Who are Respiratory Therapists?
Respiratory therapists (RTs) are highly skilled health care professionals who help people with their breathing. RTs care for patients by evaluating, treating, and maintaining heart and lung function. They treat all age groups, from newborns to the elderly.
Where do Respiratory Therapists Work?
Respiratory therapists work in a variety of hospital and/or community settings, including:
- Intensive care units
- Emergency departments
- Operating rooms
- Neonatal nurseries
- Outpatient clinics
- Sleep labs
- Home care
- Smoking cessation programs
- Medical equipment sales
- Education and research
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist
To become a respiratory therapist, students can enroll in the BHSc degree program, which includes theory and practice. A diploma option is possible after completion of Year 3. The program curriculum offers the necessary competencies to challenge the national certification examination administered by the Canadian Board for Respiratory Care (CBRC).
Entrance Requirements
To be considered for admission, high school applicants require:
- Grade 12 academic English
- Math
- Chemistry
- One of Biology or Physics
- No mark below 70% in each of these courses
- An overall minimum average of 75% Post-secondary applicants require:
- A minimum GPA of 2.75 (on a 4.30 scale)
- No grade lower than C in prerequisite courses
One seat in the Respiratory Therapy program is reserved for residents from Prince Edward Island. Priority for all other seats will be given to qualified Nova Scotia residents. If seats remain, residents of other maritime provinces followed by residents across Canada will be considered. Admission can be competitive, and meeting the minimum entrance requirements does not guarantee admission.
Examples of Courses in the Program
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Cardiopulmonary Physiology
- Respiratory Disease and Therapeutics
- Human Pregnancy and Fetal/Newborn Development
- Mechanical Ventilation
- Foundations of Health Care Practice
- Health Care Ethics
- Statistics
- Research Methods
Clinical Rotations
One of the benefits of studying at the School of Health Sciences is the opportunity to do hands-on clinical work. In years 1, 2, and 3, every student spends 6-8 weeks during the summer term completing a clinical practicum in a healthcare setting. In addition, third-year students complete multiple clinical education courses directly in the clinical environment to help prepare them for entry to practice.
Accreditation
The program is accredited by Accreditation Canada.
Professional Associations
The Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists (CSRT) is the national professional association for respiratory therapists. RTs employed in Nova Scotia are licensed by the Nova Scotia College of Respiratory Therapists.
Job Opportunities
Respiratory therapy is an evolving profession with excellent employment opportunities across Canada. Working hours and salaries vary from province to province.