Respiratory therapists are health care specialists who provide care for patients with breathing disorders. Care includes assessment, evaluation, and treatment of patients ranging in age from premature infants to the elderly. Therapists also work with adults who have chronic lung problems, such as asthma or emphysema. As a respiratory therapist, you must possess good communication skills. You will work side by side with physicians, nurses and other health care providers in caring for patients with lung disorders.
Sample careers in this field: Respiratory therapist
See which campuses offer this area of study.
Curriculum varies based on the degree (A.A.S., A.S., or Technical Certificate) and is subject to change. Curriculum posted are samples; Advisors can help determine sequence of classes.
| GENERAL EDUCATION -- 25 - 27 CREDITS |
| |
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Anatomy and Physiology I |
3 |
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Anatomy and Physiology II |
3 |
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Microbiology Elective |
3-4 |
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Chemistry Elective |
3-4 |
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English Composition |
3 |
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Life Skills Elective |
1 |
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Math Elective |
3 |
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Introduction to Psychology |
3 |
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|
or |
|
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Introduction to Sociology |
3 |
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Fundamentals of Public Speaking |
3 |
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|
or |
|
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Introduction to Interpersonal Communication |
3 |
| PROFESSIONAL / TECHNICAL CORE -- 46 CREDITS |
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Introduction to Respiratory Care |
6 |
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Therapeutic Modalities |
3 |
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Cardiopulmonary Physiology |
3 |
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Critical Care I |
3 |
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Clinical Medicine I |
3 |
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Respiratory Pharmacology |
3 |
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Clinical Applications I |
2 |
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Clinical Applications II |
2 |
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Clinical Applications III |
5 |
| |
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Cardiopulmonary Diagnostics |
4 |
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Critical Care II |
3 |
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Clinical Medicine II |
3 |
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Continuing Care |
2 |
| |
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Emergency Management |
1 |
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Clinical Applications IV |
3 |
| TOTAL CREDITS |
71 - 73 |
"Ivy Tech has given me the tools I need to be successful in the work place. I used to think that a school was a school, but it does make a difference. Life has been pretty good since my school days."
Isadora McDowell
Respiratory Care, '06
RRT, Ball Memorial Hospital
