An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Respiratory Care is a vital credential for those aspiring to become Respiratory Care Practitioners. This specialized degree equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to assist patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary conditions. The program combines comprehensive classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and real-world clinical experience to prepare graduates for the rewards and demands of the profession.
Upon completion, graduates are eligible to pursue credentials from the National Board for Respiratory Care, including the Therapist Multiple Choice (TMC) and Clinical Simulation Exam (CSE). These certifications are essential for obtaining licensure and employment as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), a recognized qualification across the healthcare industry. Moreover, with the aging population and rise in respiratory-related health issues, the demand for skilled respiratory therapists continues to grow, offering graduates solid job security and career growth opportunities.
Career Opportunities
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $77,960 in May 2023. Altogether, the lowest 10 percent earned less than $59,180, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $104,480.
Chiefly, these figures highlight the financial viability of a career in respiratory care, with competitive salaries that reflect the specialized skills and critical role these professionals play in healthcare.
As such, the program’s clinical practicum allows students to practice under the supervision of experienced professionals, fostering hands-on proficiency in patient care and the use of respiratory technology. This practical experience is invaluable, as students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings to meet the challenges of the profession upon graduation.
Is Respiratory Care for me?
Overall, an AAS in Respiratory Care opens doors to a rewarding career in an essential healthcare field. Hence, graduates not only gain technical skills but also develop the empathy and critical thinking needed to thrive in a patient-centered environment, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those with respiratory challenges.
Respiratory Care opens doors to a rewarding career in an essential healthcare field. Hence, graduates not only gain technical skills but also develop the empathy and critical thinking needed to thrive in a patient-centered environment, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those with respiratory challenges.
The Respiratory Care Program (Program #200690) is offering an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree from State Fair Community College. The Missouri Health Profession Consortium is located at 1964 Prairie Dell Rd, Union, MO, and is provisionally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).
Respiratory Care Student Program Goals
To prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and the affective (behavior) domains of respiratory care practice as performed by registered respiratory therapists (RRTs).
The Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) accredits respiratory therapy education programs in the United States. To achieve this end, it utilizes an ‘outcomes based’ process. Programmatic outcomes are performance indicators that reflect the extent to which the educational goals of the program are achieved and by which program effectiveness is documented. The information on outcomes of all accredited programs can be found at the CoARC Programmatic Outcomes Data page.
Respiratory Care Student Program Learning Outcomes
- Utilize Critical Thinking/Problem Solving Skills:
Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in critical thinking and problem-solving to aid in the accurate diagnosis, effective management, and treatment of patients with cardiopulmonary diseases. - Evaluate Assessment Data and Apply Interventions:
Graduates will be able to systematically evaluate assessment data, apply appropriate interventions, and administer prescribed respiratory care to patients with cardiopulmonary diseases, ensuring optimal patient outcomes. - Demonstrate Technical Proficiency:
Graduates will exhibit technical proficiency in all required skills, performing their roles as registered respiratory therapists safely and effectively. - Educate Various Stakeholders:
Graduates will possess the ability to educate patients, their families, healthcare professionals, and community members on matters related to cardiopulmonary wellness, disease prevention, and management, fostering health literacy. - Communication Skills:
Graduates will recognize, demonstrate, and apply written and oral communication skills essential for effective interaction in the healthcare setting. This includes communicating with patients, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals. - Professional Ethics and Legal Compliance:
Graduates will practice within the registered respiratory therapist’s professional moral, ethical, legal, and regulatory framework. This includes adhering to established standards of conduct, ensuring patient confidentiality, and maintaining the highest level of professionalism
Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
264 Precision Boulevard
Telford, TN 37690
817-283-2835
Fax: 817-354-8519
Email: webmaster@coarc.com
The associate degree in Respiratory Care program at SFCC / Missouri Health Professions Consortium meets the state of Missouri education requirements for state licensure. Individual states have specific licensure and educational requirements. Students interested in pursuing licensure in a different state should contact the program coordinator for more information
