Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care at the University of Kansas Medical Center prepares students for a rewarding and in-demand career in respiratory therapy. With a focus on clinical expertise, patient-centered care, and advanced cardiopulmonary treatments, this respiratory care degree equips graduates with the knowledge and technical skills needed to practice in hospitals, clinics, and a wide range of healthcare environments. The program blends classroom instruction, laboratory simulation, and immersive clinical education to ensure students are ready to meet the complex needs of patients with acute and chronic respiratory conditions.
This respiratory therapy degree is designed to build strong foundational knowledge in cardiopulmonary science while advancing clinical competence. Students learn to assess, monitor, and treat patients with breathing disorders across the lifespan, from neonatal intensive care units to adult critical care settings. Through structured clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities, students gain extensive real-world experience and apply evidence-based practice in diverse care environments. By completing this respiratory care degree, graduates are academically prepared to pursue national credentialing examinations and professional licensure.
The curriculum emphasizes respiratory assessment, mechanical ventilation, cardiopulmonary diagnostics, and critical care procedures. Students in this bachelor’s in respiratory therapy program develop proficiency in airway management, therapeutic gas administration, and pulmonary rehabilitation strategies. Coursework integrates anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and advanced respiratory therapeutics. In addition, the program highlights interprofessional collaboration, preparing students to work effectively alongside physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals.
As a comprehensive bachelor of science in respiratory therapy, the program goes beyond technical skills to foster leadership, ethical practice, and clinical decision-making. Students engage in hands-on laboratory training using advanced respiratory equipment and simulation technology before transitioning to supervised clinical practice. This layered approach ensures that graduates of the respiratory therapist degree program are confident, competent, and adaptable in fast-paced healthcare settings.
The respiratory care degree at KU Medical Center also places strong emphasis on professional development. Students explore health care management principles, legal and ethical standards, and quality improvement practices that shape modern respiratory care. Faculty members are experienced clinicians and educators who mentor students throughout the program, supporting academic achievement and career readiness. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to pursue the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential and enter the workforce with the qualifications needed for a variety of respiratory care jobs.
Already a credentialed respiratory therapist? KU also offers a fully online Degree Advancement Program for RRTs looking to earn their bachelor’s degree, as well as a Concurrent Enrollment Option for students currently in an AS/AAS respiratory care program.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Respiratory Care, BSSchool of Health Professions
The Bachelor’s in Respiratory Care is part of the School of Health Professions, where top-notch training programs and research put our graduates in high demand.Bachelor’s in Respiratory Care Learning Outcomes
Graduates of KU’s respiratory care degree program will:
- Demonstrate expertise in comprehensive patient assessment and evidence-based treatment planning.
- Safely operate, evaluate, and manage advanced respiratory care technologies.
- Apply critical thinking and clinical reasoning in complex healthcare settings.
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
- Integrate ethical, legal, and professional standards into respiratory therapy practice.
- Be academically prepared to pursue licensure and the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.
What Careers Are Possible With a Bachelor’s in Respiratory Care?
A respiratory care degree opens doors to a variety of professional pathways in acute and long-term care settings. Graduates of this respiratory therapist degree program may pursue roles such as:
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
- Pulmonary Function Technologist
- Neonatal and Pediatric Specialist
- Critical Care Specialist
- Respiratory Therapy Educator
Workforce data from Lightcast show continued demand for respiratory therapists across the United States. Many respiratory care jobs offer competitive compensation and advancement opportunities, particularly for professionals who hold a bachelor’s in respiratory therapy and advanced credentials.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options for students pursuing a bachelor’s in respiratory therapy. Learn more about scholarships, grants, and payment plans at our KUMC Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
Admission into the health professions programs requires two years of undergraduate study at KU or another institution. Applicants must:
– Earn a minimum 2.5 GPA overall on all general education and prerequisite courses, with no less than a grade of C in each prerequisite course – Satisfactorily complete prerequisite coursework, which includes English composition, college algebra, statistics, biology (anatomy, physiology, microbiology), introductory chemistry, college physics, oral communication, philosophy or ethics, humanities, psychology, sociology, medical terminology, and Introduction to Respiratory Therapy (RESP 200)
For detailed admission requirements, visit KUMC Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Students enrolled in the respiratory care degree program become part of a supportive academic and clinical community. Opportunities to participate in student organizations, professional networking events, and healthcare conferences enrich the educational experience. Through clinical placements and faculty mentorship, students in this respiratory therapy degree program gain confidence, leadership skills, and meaningful connections within the profession.Bachelor’s in Respiratory Care Sample Courses
Students pursuing this bachelor of science in respiratory therapy may complete courses such as:
- Introduction to Respiratory Care Procedures
- Health Care Management, Ethics and Law
- Cardiopulmonary Anatomy and Physiology
- Mechanical Ventilation
- Neonatal Respiratory Care
For a complete list of required courses and sequencing details, students should consult the KU Medical Center academic catalog.
Bachelor’s in Respiratory Care Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.