Respiratory care practitioners specialize in the management, treatment and evaluation of patients who have breathing problems. They work as a member of a critical care team, helping people with potentially life threatening lung disorders such as pneumonia, emphysema or asthma. Graduates choose whether to work with patients in hospitals, clinics or home settings. In the Respiratory Care Program, students work in a hospital with experienced professionals to learn techniques critical to the improvement of the patient's health.

Important Application Note! Hospitals and clinical facilities, as well as professional certification exam agencies, require health care providers to undergo and pass drug screens and/or criminal background checks. As a result, beginning with the Class of 2012, when a student is accepted into an allied health program, the offer of the program seat will be contingent upon the completion and review of criminal background and drug screens, as well as related Adult abuse and Child abuse screens. This testing must be completed within the timeline provided to students offered a program seat, and all costs associated with the testing are the responsibility of the student.  Failure to complete the testing, and satisfy department and clinical site guidelines during the review process, will result in forfeiture of the offered seat. NO testing is to be completed now! Specific testing instructions will be provided to students accepted into a program.

Licensing/Certification Exams National Board for Respiratory Care Entry Level Exam (required to practice in Delaware) National Board for Respiratory Care Advanced Practice Exam (required to practice in Delaware)

If you would like to learn more about the profession, below are some links that might interest you.