Respiratory Care, Associate in Science

The associate degree program in Respiratory Care provides students with a curriculum that leads to the Associate in Science degree, eligibility for the national credentialing process, entry into the Massachusetts licensure process, and employment in Respiratory Care. Respiratory therapists participate in the diagnosis, treatment, management and rehabilitation of patients with cardiopulmonary diseases and other breathing disorders. Graduates are prepared for the National Board of Respiratory Care credentialing exams, (CRT and RRT), and for state licensure as a respiratory therapist. Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all required courses in order to continue to the next semester and in order to graduate. 

A minimum of 74 credits are required for graduation.

Students contemplating a career in respiratory care must be aware that if they have ever been convicted by a court of law, their records will be subject to review by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Board of Registration in Respiratory Care upon application to take the examination for registered respiratory licensure.

A CORI/CHRI/SORI check is required prior to the clinical experience. See more information below.

Any student enrolled in an associate degree program who is new to NECC and has no academic history at the college, must take at least one course designated as intensive in each of NECC’s six-core academic skills-in order to graduate. In most cases, the program’s core required courses include these intensive courses. Students should select electives that meet core academic skills that are not met by the required courses.  Plan to see an advisor for more complete information about this graduation requirement.

Accreditation

The Respiratory Care Program at Northern Essex Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.

Additional Admission Criteria and Information

Please find additional information here: Required Forms/Criteria Packets for Health Programs.

CORI/CHRI/SORI

Students interested in participation in this academic program are required to undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, a Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) check and/or a Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) check. For more information, visit the CORI/CHRI/SORI page on the NECC website.

Northern Essex Community College is committed to the success of every student. Students with legal issues in their background will meet with a committee as part of the CORI/CHRI/SORI process and will receive guidance and counseling throughout the review of their records. NECC personnel make every effort to help students prepare for careers in their chosen field. Students are encouraged to seek assistance and support.

CPR

Students are required to be CPR Certified at the Health Care Provider Professional Rescuer level prior to the start of clinical courses.

Drug & Alcohol Screening

Students enrolled in this academic program are required to pass a drug and alcohol screening analysis.

Health

Students are required to complete a health evaluation, including the Hepatitis B immunization series, prior to final acceptance to the Program.

Student Professional Liability Insurance

Students are required to carry professional liability insurance. The premium is to be paid at the time of course registration.

Requirements

Required Course Sequence/Pathway Respiratory Care Associate Degree

Year 1 Fall

Year 1 Spring

Year 1 Summer

Year 2 Fall

Year 2 Spring