Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree in Respiratory Care

Valencia College

The Respiratory Care Associate in Science (A.S.) degree at Valencia College is a two-year program that prepares you to go directly into a specialized career as a respiratory therapist.

Respiratory therapists are an integral member of any medical team and serve as life-support specialists who work to restore the heart and lung system to normal function. A respiratory therapist’s main role is to assist physicians in treating patients who experience heart or lung problems and breathing disorders such as chronic asthma or emphysema. Valencia’s program provides a strong base in therapeutic techniques and state-of-the-art equipment, as well as hands-on experience at some of the community’s major medical centers. Through this combined educational experience, students learn to use their classroom knowledge in real-life situations.

Learn How To

Evaluate and treat patients’ breathing problems

Sample blood to test the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and report results to the physician

Use a ventilator to pump pressurized air-oxygen mixes through a tube into patients’ lungs

Job Outlook

Respiratory therapists work mainly in hospitals, in the departments of respiratory care, pulmonary medicine or anesthesiology. Other career opportunities are available in medical clinics, physicians’ offices, home care, sales, education, research and consulting. Employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Growth in the middle-aged and elderly population will lead to an increased incidence of respiratory conditions such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia.

Potential Careers

Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Care Practitioner