Degree:
The course of study for a respiratory therapist is a 65 credit-hour (six semesters) associate of applied science degree program. The respiratory care program prepares graduates for the credentialing examinations from the NBRC (National Board for Respiratory Care). The program is fully accredited by the CAAHEP (Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) through the COARC (Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care). The respiratory care program prepares graduates to be competent in delivery of therapeutic procedures in acute care settings, in performing diagnostic procedures, and in performing rehabilitation therapeutic procedures. The respiratory care program also prepares graduates to assist physicians in the diagnosis of cardiopulmonary disorders, to providing emergency cardiopulmonary care in the emergency room, and to implement therapist driven protocols in the practice of respiratory care. Many clinical facilities will require students to successfully pass a background check. Areas for employment of respiratory care professionals include acute care hospitals, sub-acute care hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, hyperbaric medicine, home care facilities, and physician offices.
The general education core will transfer to a variety of colleges and universities. Contact a counselor or faculty member at any of the colleges for specific information and to obtain the recommended sequencing of courses.
General Guidelines:
Upon acceptance into the program, students must submit a record of current immunizations required by the Texas Department of Health. Criminal background checks may be required by clinical facilities. The background check will be processed through the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).
Completion of the respiratory care program does not guarantee eligibility to take the CRT exam administered by the NBRC or certification by the Texas Department of Health. The Texas Department of Health Respiratory Care Certification will consider individuals with histories of convictions, mental illness and/or chemical dependency on an individual basis after review.
Admissions Criteria:
The respiratory care program begins in the spring semester. Completion is in the fall semester of the second year.
In addition to the system admission requirements, the following are requirements for the respiratory therapist program:
Pre-Application:
1. Graduation from high school verified with high school transcript; OR GED certificate verified by a copy of the certificate;
2. Official transcripts from all colleges or universities previously attended;
3. Completion of 9 semester hours of college level course work including: ENGL 1301 and BIOL 2401;
4. HOBET testing for aptitude in Medical Fields;
5. An essay written on why the individual wishes to enter the field of respiratory care;
6. TSI complete with eligibility to enter MATH 0310.
Pre-Admission:
1. Minimum age of 18 for completion of the respiratory care therapist program.
2. MANDATORY attendance at a scheduled orientation session.
Student Selection:
1. Students are ranked and selected on the following criteria by the admissions committee.
a. Completion of all general academic courses for the respiratory care program
b. Completion of BIOL 2401 and ENGL 1301
c. GPA
d. Date of application
2. A physical examination report, with laboratory tests and immunization records signed by a licensed physician within three weeks of the first class day. (Form provided.)
3. A CPR course for healthcare professionals (offered through the Continuing Education department with a non-credit course or the physical education department with a credit course.)
4. Hepatitis B vaccination is required for all admissions to the respiratory care program. The enrolling student must begin the series of three vaccines prior to entering the clinical practicum in the hospital setting.