Respiratory Care - Program Details

When you attend Mt. Hood Community College’s Respiratory Care program, you learn how to help adults, babies, and children with breathing problems. Once you complete the program, you can take an exam to become registered to work as a respiratory therapist.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Respiratory therapists are in high demand, and are compensated well based on national averages. To be successful in this job, you should like science, enjoy working with people, and be able to handle difficult situations. This program is approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.

Program Outcomes

After completing this program you'll be able to:

• Collect and interpret clinical data accurately, relate theory to clinical practice, and recommend appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic procedures following established clinical guidelines.
• Perform therapeutic and diagnostic procedures efficiently per appropriate standards of care, protocols, and clinical practice guidelines; modify therapeutic procedures in response to the patient’s condition; efficiently use equipment and supplies and demonstrate thorough attention to safety.
• Communicate effectively with patients and health care team members and maintain appropriate records accurately and completely, following health care agency standards and HIPAA regulations.
• Respect the beliefs and values of all persons, demonstrate self-direction, and practice ethically and professionally per established policies and procedures.

Courses and Curriculum

The program combines basic science and modern respiratory care theory with clinical experience in local medical centers. For the most part, you can complete all courses that fulfill general education requirements in any term. You must complete core courses with a grade of "C" or better.

Explore the Course Curriculum

Your Future in Respiratory Care

Employment opportunities are excellent nationally and locally, with job demand expanding. Starting salary ranges vary between $30 - $36 per hour depending on the type of employment. The median salary nationally for respiratory therapists is $86,877.

See job placement opportunities