Respiratory Care

Welcome to the Respiratory Care Program at Sinclair Community College! Our program is designed for highly motivated individuals eager to make a difference in the fast-paced healthcare environment. As a Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP), you will play a vital role in the prevention, treatment, management, and rehabilitation of patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary conditions. Our comprehensive curriculum combines technical skills, scientific knowledge, and compassionate patient care, preparing you for diverse career opportunities in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home care settings. With a 100% pass rate on national exams and strong job placement rates, our program equips you with the expertise needed to excel in this rewarding field. Start building your future today and join a respected healthcare team dedicated to improving the lives of patients of all ages.

Available Programs

For program specific information click on the program below:

Associate of Applied Science

Respiratory Care

Respiratory care practitioners are responsible for the prevention, treatment, management and rehabilitation of patients of all ages with deficiencies or abnormalities associated with the cardiopulmonary system. The Respiratory Care program is designed to be completed in five (5) semesters (excluding prerequisites), on a full-time basis. The degree program consists of open enrollment courses (general education and division specific) and program specific courses with limited enrollment. The open enrollment courses may be taken prior to entry into the limited enrollment courses. To qualify for entry to limited enrollment courses, please see the Applicant Information packet located on the webpage. A cumulative GPA of 2.5 is required and an overall grade point average of at least 2.0 is necessary for continuance in the program and graduation. Note: For students under age 18 there may be restrictions on participating in certain Health Sciences programs. Any student under age 18 must contact the program director/department chair to discuss whether he or she may enroll. View Full Program Details

Short-term Technical Certificate

Respiratory Care of the Newborn

Provides education to respiratory care practitioners to be oriented to neonatal respiratory care including history, fetal development, stabilization, evidence-based practices, and multi-disciplinary approaches. Includes respiratory devices employed for ongoing support of term and pre-term infants. Graduates will have a better knowledge of newborn resuscitation and stabilization. Student must be a licensed respiratory care practitioner.

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How to Enroll

Academic Advising

Paying for College

Important Information about Health Sciences Programs: The Health Sciences (HS) Programs consist of open enrollment courses (general education and division specific) and program specific courses with limited enrollment. The open enrollment courses may be taken prior to entry into the limited enrollment courses. To qualify for entry to limited enrollment courses, please see the program specific information packet located on each HS program's webpage.

It is very important that you meet with an Academic Advisor by calling 937-512-3700, or visiting Building 10, Room 301, to make sure you are scheduling the correct classes for your program choices. They can also direct you to financial services for any information you require about finances.

Why major in Respiratory Care?

Our respiratory care program is meticulously designed to equip you with the essential educational foundation and clinical experience necessary to excel as a skilled respiratory care practitioner under medical supervision. The curriculum encompasses a diverse range of subjects, including human biology, pathophysiology, respiratory critical care, and pediatrics.

Daily responsibilities of respiratory care practitioners may include:

Operating advanced equipment in adult, pediatric, or neonatal intensive care units
Supporting patients in recovery rooms or during labor and delivery
Administering medications and therapeutic breathing treatments
Conducting pulmonary function tests
Participating in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Providing rehabilitation services in hospitals, subacute facilities, or home settings
Collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive patient care plans

Additionally, respiratory care practitioners have opportunities to broaden their expertise in areas such as management, research, medical sales, or education.

Is a Career in Respiratory Care Right for You?

Consider pursuing a career in respiratory care if you:

- Are interested in the medical field, particularly in critical care and therapeutic practices.
- Thrive on meeting and assisting individuals from various backgrounds.
- Enjoy engaging with a diverse population while performing a range of clinical tasks.
- Aspire to acquire new, in-demand skills that are valued across the nation.

Respiratory care offers a fulfilling career for those eager to leverage their technical, scientific, and interpersonal skills within the healthcare sector. This educational pathway not only prepares you for a role as a respiratory therapist but also provides opportunities to expand your expertise into areas such as management, research, medical sales, or education.