Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a Respiratory Therapist?

A respiratory therapist is one who has successfully completed an accredited, respiratory care degree program and has passed both the entry-level certification and advanced practitioner, registry examinations. A therapist is one who assesses patients for appropriate respiratory treatment and care, administers medications in support of the cardiopulmonary system. A therapist will routinely draw arterial blood for analysis, administers life-support, inserts artificial airways, administers CPR and may be part of a hospital's transport team. A therapist often instructs patients in disease management and equipment operation and maintenance.

Where are most therapists employed?

Most therapists are employed in hospitals. More and more therapists are being employed in homecare companies and few are employed in physician’s offices. There is a current shortage of therapists in most employment settings!

What is a typical salary for a respiratory therapist?

According to www.salary.com, a the median annual salary for a respiratory therapist in Ohio is $71,000 and ranges from $56,000 to $84,000 in the greater Cleveland area.

What do I need to apply?

Please see admission criteria for more information

Do I need a criminal background check to be accepted to the program?

This is a requirement that must be completed before the Respiratory Care Field Experience courses. Further details are provided in the Program Information Sessions and during Program Orientation.

When does the program start each year?

We accept a new class of students to start every Fall.

Is there an application deadline date?

There is no deadline to apply. Once the prerequisite courses have been completed, admission will be evaluated by the Program Director. If all requirements are not met by the intended Fall start, the student will be placed on the waitlist for the following cohort. 

Does this program have a waiting list?

Once the program fills up (25 students), a waiting list will be established for the next year.

How long is this program?

The program is 5 semesters in length, which is two years.

Can I finish in less than 5 semesters/two years?

The courses are sequenced in order and are only offered once per year. The applicant may complete all general, graduation requirements prior to admission to the program, and still complete all RESP-XXXX courses in the 5 semester sequence.

Is the program offered in the evenings or weekends; can I work while attending the program?

It is a day program only. Most people find part-time work manageable. Increased, outside employment may be detrimental to successful, academic progress! After successful completion of Summer clinicals, you may apply for a limited permit (license), which will enable healthcare institutions to hire you on a part-time basis, depending on their needs.