Respiratory Therapy

Respiratory Therapy Associate of Science

The Bakersfield College Respiratory Therapy Associate Degree Program prepares students to become skilled respiratory therapists, working in hospitals and healthcare facilities. The program offers both didactic and clinical education, providing a foundation in critical thinking and hands-on patient care. Students will be eligible for national certification exams and licensure upon completion. The 24-month program requires a full-time commitment, including summer sessions, and students may need to travel to clinical sites. Career opportunities include roles in various healthcare settings, with an excellent job outlook for graduates. Prerequisite Coursework: All pre-requisites must be completed at the time the application is submitted, and applicants must have earned a “C” grade or higher at BC, or an equivalent course at another accredited college. *Please note that there is a minimum of 2.5 combined GPA required, and no less than a “C” in any course for the Biological Sciences. Microbiology; Anatomy & Physiology; Math; Chemistry at Bakersfield College or an equivalent course at another accredited college must be taken as prerequisites to entering the Respiratory Therapy program. Medical Terminology and NURS B99 are strongly recommended. General Education Coursework: General education courses are required to graduate from Bakersfield College with an Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy. It is suggested that most of these courses be completed prior to beginning the Respiratory Therapy Program. Courses must be completed with a “C” grade or better. Upon completion of graduation requirements and the required degree courses with at least a “C” or “P” grade in each course, the student will be eligible for an Associate of Science degree.

Program Learning Outcomes

• 1. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to anticipate beneficial airway management techniques and modalities in increasingly complex situations.

• 2. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to anticipate potential equipment failures based on usage patterns and patient needs and implement solutions.

• 3. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to analyze appropriate therapeutic responses to interventions and communicate to the healthcare team.

• 4. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to perform the clinical procedural skills associated with the role and scope of practice of the advanced respiratory care practitioner in the intensive care units, including neonatal and pediatric care, in the healthcare setting.

• 5. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to differentiate between respiratory diseases.

• 6. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to apply the principles of advanced cardio life support certifications to all rapid response and cardiac arrest patients.

Program Requirements