The Respiratory Care Program is a two-year collegiate program designed for those who wish to earn an Associate Degree and prepare to assume the responsibilities of a Respiratory Therapist in health care agencies. The program includes a general education core curriculum as well as respiratory care courses, labs, and clinical practice in affiliated hospitals.

The graduate of the Respiratory Care Program is expected to play a principle role in the restoration and/or maintenance of pulmonary homeostasis. Included in this role is the administration of medical gas therapy, aerosol therapy, chest physiotherapy, breathing retraining, and measures for periodic lung expansion. The Graduate Therapist is also able to assume a leadership role (under medical supervision) in the management of artificial airways, continuous mechanical ventilation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Further, he/she is prepared to perform adjunct laboratory procedures such as obtaining and analyzing arterial blood and measuring pulmonary function.

Upon completion of the Respiratory Care Program, the graduate is qualified for a staff position under medical direction or to enter an advanced training program to pursue specialization. The graduate is also eligible for the examination process, which leads to national and state certification and national registry.