Respiratory Care Technology, A.A.S.

Degree: Associate of Applied Science
Major: Respiratory Care Technology
Department: Respiratory Care Technology
CIP Code: (31) 51.0908.00   
SOC Code: 29-1126

For more information, visit the Respiratory Care Technology webpage or contact the Health Sciences division at 615-230-3330.

The Respiratory Care Technology program prepares students to become Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs). Respiratory therapists are integral members of the healthcare team who work under the supervision of a physician to assess, treat, and manage patients with cardiopulmonary related conditions. Graduates are typically employed in hospitals, clinics, home care settings, and with additional training, diagnostic laboratories. The overall goal of the program is to prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of respiratory care practice as performed by the Registered Respiratory Therapist.

Program Admission
After fulfilling the college admission requirements, students are required to complete all of the general education courses as outlined, with the exception of Anatomy and Physiology II, with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, before beginning the program in the spring. Students may complete AHC 115 is a recommended optional course to support preparation. 

Applications to the Respiratory Care Technology program must be submitted by October 1. Formal screening for admission occurs in November. Classes begin in the spring semester, and enrollment is limited. The program consists of four full-time semesters. After the first semester, students participate in clinical rotations throughout the remaining three semesters. 

Licensure
Licensure requirements for respiratory therapists vary according to state statutes. In Tennessee, practitioners are required to pass the National Board for Respiratory Care examinations to obtain the Certified Respiratory Therapist and/or Registered Respiratory Therapist credentials to practice.

Interested students should contact the Program Director for an information packet. For more information about the program, refer to the Health Sciences Associate of Applied Science Degrees section for Respiratory Care webpage.

Program​ Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the graduate will have developed the skills, knowledge and abilities to accomplish the following:

1. Demonstrate the ability to comprehend, apply, and evaluate clinical information relevant to their role as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). 

2. Demonstrate the technical proficiency in all skills necessary to fulfill the role as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). 

3. Demonstrate personal behaviors consistent with professional and employer expectations as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). 

4. Successfully meet employer expectations by competently performing skills required of a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).