The Respiratory Therapy Program is designed to prepare graduates to participate in patient assessment, perform diagnostic testing, administer therapeutic treatments, maintain patient ventilation through mechanical support, and participate in the rehabilitation of patients with pulmonary disease. Students and graduates will participate in the treatment and care of patients of every age in a variety of locations. This profession requires an ability to interact and communicate effectively with patients and other health professionals. The respiratory therapist must be able to establish and maintain a rapport with patients, demonstrate an ability to work with mechanical systems, and work with others as part of the health care team.

Preferred high school course work includes algebra, chemistry, and one additional science. Other recommended course work includes Algebra II, biology, geometry, anatomy and physiology.

Respiratory Therapy Program application/admissions criteria are identified in the college catalog.

Upon successful completion of this program, the graduate will be eligible to sit for both the entry-level certification, written and clinical simulation registry examinations of the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Successful completion of the entry-level and advance practitioner examinations will entitle the graduate to use the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials, respectively. In addition to the credentials, a license to practice is required by most states, including Ohio.

The program director is Associate Professor Kathleen Compton. Her office number is (740) 264-5591 x1671.

Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy Program, the graduate will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the ability to comprehend, apply, and evaluate clinical information relevant to the role as registered respiratory therapy practitioner.
2. Demonstrate technical proficiency in all skills necessary to fulfill the role as a registered respiratory therapy practitioner.
3. Demonstrate personal behaviors consistent with professional and employer expectations for the registered respiratory therapy practitioner.

Outcomes data from the Annual Report of Current Status has been posted on the CoARC website.  Follow this link directly to the Programmatic Outcomes Data page.​