Outcomes
Demonstrate the ability to perform all cardiopulmonary therapeutic procedures safely within the scope of his/her education.
Accurately interprets clinical information from medical records and physical findings.
Communicates effectively in the healthcare setting.
Demonstrates ethical and professional behavior in the clinical setting.
Applies the knowledge gained in the program to be successful on the NBRC Multiple Choice Therapist Exam upon program completion.
Program Overview
This program is designed to prepare graduates as competent respiratory therapists. Therapists provide care and treatment to patients suffering from breathing disorders and also may be involved in diagnostic testing, clinical supervision, and decision-making. This two-year program puts equal emphasis on theory, clinical practice, and the professional behavior expected of a respiratory care therapist. This degree typically is not designed for transfer.
Program eligibility standards apply; consult a KCC advisor.
Students in health career programs are advised to consult the Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations, section 11.4. This regulation concerns completion of all courses in health career curricula being completed with a grade of C or better.
Additional Program Information
The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (www.coarc.com). 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 CoARC website includes programmatic outcomes data and a list of CoARC accredited programs. KCC is program #:200441.
Each student in this program must have a physical exam, criminal background check without any disqualifying convictions, a negative drug screen, and current CPR certification from the American Heart Association (BLS for Healthcare Provider) or American Red Cross (Professional Rescuer: adult, child & infant or AED).
Upon completion, the graduate is eligible to apply for admission to the National Board for Respiratory Care Exams to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).
The curriculum of record for students applying to, but not yet accepted into, competitive entry health careers programs will be the Associate in General Studies.
Program Eligibility
Prospective students should consult KCC's website for the complete process to apply and enroll in a health program--including deadlines, Respiratory Therapist eligibility worksheet, essential physical capabilities and functions.
Program Requirements
Major Courses
General education
| ENGL 1613 | English I | 3 Credits |
| COMM 1553 | Introductory Speech | 3 Credits |
| | |
| BIOL 1564 | Intro to Anatomy & Physiology | 4 Credits |
| or | |
| BIOL 2654 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 4 Credits |
| | |
| MATH 1142 | Intro to Respiratory Calculations | 2 Credits |
| PSYC 2553 | Lifespan Developmental Psychology | 3 Credits |
| Total Credit Hours: | 15 |
The BIOL course must be taken prior to or concurrently with the first semester of Respiratory Therapist program.
Total Credit Hours: 68
Suggested Course Sequence
0-15 credit hours
16-30 credit hours
31-45 credit hours
46-60+ credit hours
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Advisors are available to assist you with general information about KCC’s programs and services.
Call: 815-802-8500
Email: advising@kcc.edu