RESPIRATORY CARE
Program Description
The Respiratory Care profession is a rapidly expanding, dynamic allied health career. This profession is ideal for those who want to assist individuals with cardiopulmonary problems. Whether preventing or treating a cardiorespiratory problem, the respiratory therapist is concerned with the health of the whole person, taking into consideration the social and emotional needs of that person when designing a therapeutic plan under the direction of a physician.
The program in Respiratory Care prepares students to assume responsible positions as part of a health care team. An objective of the curriculum is to provide a broad knowledge so that students will be academically prepared to enter the profession and successfully complete the national entry-level examination, advanced practitioner examination and qualify for a New York State license to practice as a Respiratory Therapist. Students are prepared to practice in a variety of settings, including hospitals and other acute care facilities, skilled nursing facilities, physician offices, laboratories and home care.
Students participate in various classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences. The laboratory provides students the opportunity for hands-on experience in preparation for the clinical practicum. The respiratory courses prepare students to provide, under medical direction, treatment, management, evaluation and care to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system.
Graduates of the program will qualify for employment as Respiratory Therapists. Graduates are eligible to apply to take credentialing exams administered by the National Board of Respiratory Care and apply for a license to practice through the Office of the Professions, New York State Education Department.
Accreditation
The respiratory care program is fully accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Respiratory Care (CoArc).
Current High School Graduates
Successful completion of algebra, biology, chemistry and physics are highly recommended. Reading and writing competency at the EN 110 level and mathematic competency at the MT 006 level as determined by the College Placement Tests.
Current College Students
Internal and external college transfer applicants must have a grade point average (QPA) of at least 2.5 (C+). Reading and writing competencies must be at the EN 110 level and Mathematics competency at the MT 006 level. Applicants who do not have a Biology course must take BI 149 or BI 107 prior to BI 150/151.
Most Respiratory Care students elect to complete required general education courses in the curriculum prior to entering professional courses. This path is helpful to students who have other personal responsibilities. Applicants who do not meet admission requirements may be accepted to an extended curriculum option. This is an individually developed schedule of courses based on the applicant’s academic background and college Placement Test results. This path provides an opportunity to meet program admission requirements for Respiratory Care courses. Students may begin either option in fall, spring, or summer semesters. The Respiratory Care program department head and faculty will act as the student’s adviser. Acceptance to begin the Respiratory Care coursework will be based on student success, ranking and space availability.
Scholarships
The Respiratory Care Foundation of the American Association for Respiratory Care and the Erie Community College Foundation offer various scholarships. Students are encouraged to apply.
Degree: Associate in Applied Science
Hegis: 5215
Curriculum Code: 0655
Total Degree Credits: 72.5
Campus Location: North
Health Sciences Division
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