The Career
Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat and care for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. Practicing under the direction of a physician, respiratory therapists assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care, therapeutic treatments and diagnostic procedures.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Be sensitive to a patient’s physical and psychological needs
- Pay close attention to detail
- Follow and carry out instructions
- Work collaboratively as part of a team
- Utilize critical thinking skills
Employment and Salary Information
This profession is experiencing faster-than-average job growth, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. By 2020, the number of positions nationwide is expected to increase by 28%.
Average annual earnings of respiratory therapists in Missouri were $57,880 in May 2013. The middle 50 percent earned between $47,770 and $67,390. The lowest 10 percent earned $41,110, and the highest 10 percent earned $76,750.
Transfer Options
The Associate of Applied Science degree is designed for students seeking employment immediately upon graduation. However, many of the credits, particularly the general education electives received with this degree, may qualify as transfer credit at four-year schools.
These decisions are made solely by the bachelor degree-granting institution, not ECC. Students seeking to transfer are advised to contact the institution of their choice before beginning a program or reviewing other degrees and coursework offered through ECC.
The Program
East Central College, in partnership with the Rolla Technical Institute/Center, offers a program of study leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree in respiratory care. Students learn to administer treatments and conduct tests on persons with lung and heart conditions, as ordered by a physician. They are also trained to provide patient education and develop critical-thinking skills necessary to perform the duties of a professional healthcare provider.
After program prerequisites have been met, respiratory care is a two-year degree. The ECC Respiratory Care Associate of Applied Science degree program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), program #200503 and by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Graduates sit for the National Board for Respiratory Care examinations. Those who pass the exams may sign the initials RRT following their name to indicate that they are a Registered Respiratory Therapist.
Admission Requirements
To enter this course of study, students must meet these institution and program-specific criteria:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission to ECC
- A placement test as specified by the college. (some coursework requires minimum placement results)
- A completed respiratory care application on file by the specified deadlines (obtained from the Rolla Technical Center)
- Satisfactory criminal background check and drug screening upon admission
- Completion of prerequisites with a “C” or better prior to starting the program.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
Rolla Technical Institute/Center is a candidate for accreditation by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education
Contacts
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Program Location
ECC Rolla at the Rolla Technical Center
500 Forum Drive
Rolla, MO 65401
Program Director
Diane Oldfather, MHEd, BHS,
RRT, RCP
573-458-0160, ext. 16194
doldfather@rolla.k12.mo.us
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Division
Nursing and Allied Health
636-584-6616
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