Respiratory Therapist: Career Associate

The Respiratory Therapist: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for a vital role in the healthcare industry, focusing on the assessment, treatment, and care of patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders. This comprehensive program combines classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed for a successful career as a respiratory therapist. Throughout the program, students learn about respiratory anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, mechanical ventilation, and emergency procedures, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle diverse clinical situations. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training in state-of-the-art simulation labs and real-world clinical settings, working alongside experienced professionals to develop critical thinking and practical skills. Graduates of this program will be qualified to administer oxygen, medications, and mechanical ventilation, as well as interpret diagnostic tests related to respiratory function. The program also prepares students for the credentialing exams required by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC), which is essential for licensure and certification in the field. As respiratory therapists play a crucial role in hospitals, clinics, and emergency care settings, this program aims to produce competent, compassionate, and employable graduates ready to meet the increasing demand for respiratory care services. Whether working independently or as part of a healthcare team, students will develop a thorough understanding of the latest technologies and best practices in respiratory care. Upon completion, graduates can pursue employment opportunities in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and home care settings. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about helping others and interested in a dynamic healthcare career focused on respiratory health.

General Education   
ENGL 101 English Composition I  3
ENGL 102 English Composition II  3
COMM 101 Effective Speaking  3
Core A Elective  3
Core B Elective  3
Free Elective  3
Physical Education & Wellness  1

Major Requirements   
RESP 100 Intro to Respiratory Care  2 
RESP 120 Cardiopulmonary Anatomy &  3 
                  Physiology   
RESP 130 Hospital Orientation  2 
RESP 140 Oxygen Administration  5 
RESP 150 Pharmacology  3 
RESP 160 Patient Assessment  2 
RESP 170 Therapeutics  4 
RESP 175 Clinical Practice I  2 
RESP 190 Acid-Base Physiology  2 
RESP 200 Cardiopulmonary Diseases  3 

Other Required Courses   
BIOL 121 Anatomy & Physiology I  4 
BIOL 122 Anatomy & Physiology II  4 
CHEM 100 Fundamentals of Chemistry (Core C)  3 

This curriculum is designed to prepare students to:

Demonstrate proficiency as respiratory therapists as described by the National Board for Respiratory Care

Assist physicians in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of patients afflicted with cardiopulmonary disorders

Function effectively as members of the healthcare team

Demonstrate the ability to comprehend, apply, and evaluate clinical information relevant to their role as advanced respiratory care practitioners (Cognitive Domain)

Demonstrate technical proficiency in all advanced practitioner skills (Psychomotor Domain)

Demonstrate personal behaviors consistent with professional and employer expectations for the advanced level respiratory care practitioner (Affective Domain)

Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship

Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC? 
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.

Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program. 

Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.

What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?

The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year. 

The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.

Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.

Are you eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

Apply to HACC

Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)

Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county

Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0

Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test

Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC

Participate in at least two HACC student organizations

The Respiratory Therapist: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for immediate employment as respiratory therapists in various healthcare settings. This program provides comprehensive training in respiratory care principles, techniques, and procedures, equipping students with the necessary skills to assess, treat, and care for patients with respiratory disorders. The curriculum includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, cardiopulmonary anatomy, pharmacology, patient assessment, mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, and emergency procedures, among others. Students also gain hands-on clinical experience through internships and practica at affiliated hospitals and clinics, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for certification examinations such as the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) credentialing exams, which validate their competencies and enhance employment prospects. The program emphasizes both technical skills and patient care, encouraging compassionate communication and teamwork within healthcare teams. The faculty comprises experienced respiratory therapists and healthcare professionals dedicated to student success. Graduates of this program often find employment in hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, and rehabilitation centers. The program’s accreditation and alignment with industry standards ensure that students receive up-to-date education consistent with national healthcare requirements. Students interested in this career pathway should have a strong interest in health sciences, good communication skills, and the ability to work in dynamic, high-pressure environments. The program typically spans two years and is suitable for individuals seeking a rewarding career in healthcare with a specialization in respiratory therapy. Overall, Harrisburg Area Community College’s Respiratory Therapist: Career Associate program offers a robust foundation for those aspiring to serve in vital healthcare roles, supporting patient recovery and improving quality of life through specialized respiratory care.