Students enter the program in fall semester in August.
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Respiratory therapists, also known as respiratory care practitioners, address breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. These essential healthcare workers evaluate and treat all types of patients, ranging from premature infants with underdeveloped lungs to elderly people suffering from disease. They may provide care for chronic conditions such as asthma or emphysema and also work in emergency care to assist victims of stroke, drowning, shock and other situations.
These professionals are increasingly in demand and an important part of the healthcare team. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, faster-than-average employment growth is projected for respiratory therapists. Job opportunities should be very good, especially for respiratory therapists with cardiopulmonary care skills or experience working with infants. A professional license is required to provide clinical services in this field.
The best route to an advanced career in respiratory therapy with highest salary potential is through a Bachelor of Science degree. KU offers two programs:
Two-year B.S. program at KU Medical Center
This degree program is for students who have completed two years of prerequisite course work. All classes are held at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, Kan.
For working professionals with the RRT credential and associate degree, KU also offers a flexible online program to provide the opportunity to acquire a Bachelor of Science degree. Please note: this program is not available for students without professional experience as a respiratory therapist.
Accreditation Statement
The University of Kansas Respiratory Care program at KU Medical Center is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (www.coarc.com).
Commission on Accreditation
for Respiratory Care
1248 Harwood Road
Bedford, Texas 76021-4244
(817) 283-2835
Outcomes data from the 2011 Annual Report of Current Status has been posted on the CoARC website. Follow this link directly to the Programmatic Outcomes Data page: http://www.coarc.com/47.html
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