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Degree S1205
The Respiratory Therapy Program, which is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (COARC), is designed to train students to function as Respiratory Therapists.
Respiratory Therapy is the application of technical skills involving a complete understanding of cardiopulmonary physiology and recognition of various pathological conditions that alter the patient’s ability to breathe effectively.
By applying medical gases under pressure - i.e., compressed air, oxygen, and other mixtures - to the airways through the use of various kinds of equipment, the therapist, under the direction of the physician, treats the diseased or ineffective respiratory system.
Some mechanical aptitude and the ability to perform fine motor movements with hands and fingers is required in learning the operation of specialized equipment. This includes diagnostic apparatus which aids the physician in detecting cardiorespiratory diseases.
This degree requires the completion of General Education coursework plus the following:
Required Courses
- Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory Therapists
SOC Career Code: 29-1126.00Assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records; and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.
Typical Hourly Salary$39.40The figure above is based off a percentile of 25 percent.
All job data and figures based on a 100 mile radius from Mt. SACTop Entry-Level EducationChart Legend- Doctoral Degree Or More
- Master's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Associate's Degree
- Some College
- Certificate
- High School Diploma Or Less
Median Salary Earnings$101,212.79Annual Job Openings1,220Openings are regional vacancies due to growth and turnover in this career.All job data and figures based on a 100 mile radius from Mt. SAC
Historical Wages
- Respiratory Therapists
