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Respiratory Care Technology Frequently Asked Questions
The Respiratory Care Technology Program at Delgado Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. Graduates of the program receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree for the two-year Respiratory Therapist Program and are eligible to take the national credentialing exams.
What is Respiratory Care Technology?
Respiratory Care Technology is an allied health specialty practiced under the direction of a licensed physician and involves the assessment, testing, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of persons with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system.
What is the RSPT Program like at Delgado?
The RSPT Program includes prerequisites and two years of integrated general education, required related courses and the professional courses. The RSPT component begins in August of each year consists of two years of combined didactic and clinical education.
How do you apply for admission to the RSPT Program?
Delgado Community College is an open admissions college; however acceptance into the
RSPT Program is by selection. The Admissions Committee for the RSPT Program reviews
and evaluates each application on an impartial basis. Meeting the minimum requirements
does not guarantee admission into the program. Students wishing to apply for admission
to the RSPT Program must submit a completed RSPT application to the Division of Allied
Health no later than March 15.
Persons accepted into the RSPT Program will be required to meet the technical standards
of the RSPT profession which are available for review in the Allied Admissions Office.
When should you apply for admission to the RSPT Program?
Students are eligible for admission to the Respiratory Care Program who:
- Provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Successfully complete all prerequisite and required related courses. The prerequisite courses for the Associate of Applied Science Degree are BIOL 161/163; MATH 128 (Applied Algebra); and ENGL 101 (English Composition I) or ENGL 110 (Intensive English Composition I). The required related course for the Associate of Applied Science Degree are BIOL 211 (Microbiology of Human Pathogens); CHEM 101 (Chemistry I for non science majors); PSYC 127 (Intro. of Psychology); and Humanities Elective.
- Possess a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale in all college courses.
NOTE: Science courses over 10 years old may require repetition. Check with the Allied Health Admissions Advisor.
What are the career opportunities for a Respiratory Care Practitioners?
Respiratory care practitioners work in many different health care environments which may include but are not limited to: general hospital in-patient; adult, pediatric or neonatal intensive care units; emergency rooms; out-patient, home care or rehabilitation facilities; special-procedure areas and diagnostic laboratories.
How do you find out if courses you have taken at other schools will transfer to Delgado?
To find out if courses you have taken will transfer to Delgado, call (504) 671-6201 and for information on advising hours of the Allied Health Advisors to have your transcripts evaluated.
Interested students should meet with an Allied Health Admissions Advisor.