Program Description

The Respiratory Care program is a two-year course of study leading to the Associate in Science degree in Respiratory Care. The course work can also be done on a part-time basis. Clinical instruction and training is provided by Rutgers School of Health Related Professions. Hours for clinical practice may vary and travel to the clinical setting is the responsibility of the student. Respiratory care therapists are employed in the treatment, management, control, evaluation, and care of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities associated with the cardiopulmonary system.

See paragraph “Qualifications for Admission  to Degree Programs” and “Admission Requirements for Health Technologies” for desired high school background. An entrance exam and interview are also required. Also note that a minimum GPA of 2.75 is required in first-year prerequisite courses in order to continue to the Respiratory Care (second year) course work.

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills consistent with professional and employer expectations for a Respiratory Care Therapist;
• Comprehend, evaluate, and apply information relevant to their role as Respiratory Care Therapists;
• Understand the psychomotor skills that are consistent with professional and employer expectations for a Respiratory Care Therapist;
• Demonstrate the ability to function as a member of the Health Care Delivery team, providing patient care in a multicultural and ethnically diverse society.

After Union County College

Successful completion of the program provides eligibility for licensing in New Jersey and allows graduates to sit for credentialing examinations administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care. New licensed graduates will be able to perform the duties within the scope of a respiratory therapist in any health care institution or setting of their choice. The Rutgers SHRP Respiratory Care Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) (www.coarc.com).

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