Majors at ECC: Allied Health Division

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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, and, hence, takes 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 in Respiratory Therapy. 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 classrooms, laboratory, and clinical experiences. The laboratory provides students the opportunity for hands-on experience in preparation for the clinical practicum, while 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).

Scholarships

The Respiratory Care Foundation of the American Association for Respiratory Care and the Erie Community College Foundation offers 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
Allied Health Division