Student Information:
How do I become a Respiratory Therapist?

Qualified students must first be sensitive to the needs of patients who have serious physical impairments and must work well as a member of a team. Students should also have superior communication skills necessary to deal with other members of the health care team, as well as patients and their families. The ability to pay close attention and follow instructions carefully are important prerequisites for respiratory care students.

Students are admitted on a selected basis due to limited space in the clinical area of study. To be considered for admission into the program, a prospective student must be a high school graduate or equivalent, achieve a satisfactory score on selected admissions exams, complete a hospital observation, and be approved by the admissions committee. Prospective students must submit their applications for admission prior to March 31.

After acceptance into the program, all students are required to maintain a grade of "C" or better in all respiratory care courses as well as all other courses. Required courses are described in the OC catalog. The catalog can be viewed online at the OC Catalogs and Schedules website.

The Respiratory Care Program is two years in length. Upon completion of the program, students are awarded the Associate of Applied Science degree. Contact the respiratory care faculty for more information on beginning a career as a respiratory therapist.