Respiratory Care - Associate of Applied Science
Breathing Life into Healthcare: Respiratory Care at Missoula College
The Respiratory Care Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree at Missoula College prepares students to become skilled respiratory therapists who evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients with breathing difficulties and cardiopulmonary disorders. These healthcare professionals are integral members of the healthcare team, making critical decisions to ensure patients receive the best respiratory care possible. Graduates emerge with the knowledge and expertise necessary to excel in diverse clinical settings.
increase in employment opportunities for those in respiratory care over the next decade
average income for those in respiratory care careers
respiratory care employees work in hospital facilities, with the others working in other, private care facilities.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Respiratory Care?
A degree in Respiratory Care opens doors to diverse career opportunities, including Respiratory Therapists, Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRT), Clinical Specialists, and Pulmonary Function Technologists. From Sleep Technologists to Neonatal/Pediatric Specialists, Transport Respiratory Therapist to Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists, there are countless options for your to pursue in a care with Respiratory Care in mind.
What Is Advanced Respiratory Care?
Advanced Respiratory Care involves specialization in specific areas of respiratory therapy, such as pediatric or neonatal care, sleep medicine, or pulmonary rehabilitation. Advanced practitioners often assume leadership roles, contribute to research, or engage in education and training.
Jobs in Respiratory Care:
- Respiratory Therapist
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
- Pulmonary Function Technologist
- Sleep Technologist
- Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist
- Clinical Specialist
- Transport Respiratory Therapist
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist
- Respiratory Therapy Educator
- Researcher
Salary Statistics for Respiratory Care
As of May 2020, the BLS reported a median annual wage of $62,810 for respiratory therapists in the United States. Specialized roles or those with advanced certifications may command higher salaries.
Experiential Learning in Respiratory Care
Missoula College places a strong emphasis on experiential learning in the Respiratory Care program. Students gain hands-on experience in respiratory therapy procedures, patient assessment, and treatment planning, preparing them to excel in clinical practice.
Possible Internships in Respiratory Care
Missoula College collaborates with healthcare facilities to provide students with valuable internship opportunities. These internships allow students to apply classroom knowledge, work directly with patients, and refine their skills under the guidance of experienced respiratory therapists.
Career Development Options in Respiratory Care
Graduates can pursue advanced certifications, such as the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential, to specialize in specific areas of respiratory care. Additionally, experienced respiratory therapists may explore opportunities in education, management, research, or advanced clinical practice.
Get Your Associates in Respiratory Care
The Respiratory Care degree at Missoula College equips students with the skills and expertise required to excel in a critical healthcare field. With a comprehensive curriculum, promising employment statistics, and a focus on experiential learning and career development, students are well-prepared to embark on fulfilling careers as respiratory care professionals. Whether aspiring to work in acute care, pediatrics, or specialized areas, Respiratory Care provides the foundation for success in improving patients' quality of life through optimal respiratory health.