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    Respiratory Care, AS

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    The simple act of breathing is not something most people think about - until they can't breathe normally. As a Respiratory Therapist, you will use a combination of scientific standards and practices to discover, manage and prevent dysfunctions of the cardiopulmonary system.

    Respiratory Therapists work with medical direction at sites such as wellness centers, medical offices, asthma clinics, sleep disorder centers and in hospitals. The patients you care for will rely on you to help diagnose lung and breathing disorders, determine therapies and implement and manage ongoing care and treatment programs.

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    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in May 2023 for a Respiratory Therapist in the U.S. was $77,960 per year ($37.48 per hour), with a much faster than average projected job growth of 13 percent between 2023 and 2033.

     

    Program Perks
    • 24-month, CoARC-accredited Associate of Science degree program
    • 3:1 student-to-faculty ratio for hands-on clinical experience
    • Study human physiology and cardiopulmonary system
    • Learn critical thinking and communication skills, patient assessment skills, disease management protocols & development of care plans through classroom instruction and clinical-based practice
    • Upon successful completion of program, students sit for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam, leading to advanced practitioner exam to earn Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential
    • CoARC Respiratory Care Program Outcomes
    COARC

    Accreditation & Licensure

    Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. The Associate of Science in Respiratory Care, CoARC Program ID 200368, holds Continuing Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) for Entry into Respiratory Care Professional Practice, www.coarc.com.

    Graduates must pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam, which leads to the advanced practitioner exam to earn the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.

    Admissions Information

    Criteria

    Applicants are evaluated on the basis of the following criteria:

    • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
    • High school record and/or college academic record
    • Success in previous math and science courses
    • Fulfillment of program technical standards
    • Shadowing a professional in a Respiratory Care department is encouraged

    Requirements

    To be considered for admission, the following items must be submitted to the Admissions Office:

    Deadlines

    Prospective students may apply anytime and are accepted on a rolling basis. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and students will be notified of their acceptance by postal mail, email or phone.

    Starting Term - Spring 2026

    Standard Deadline - 12/5/2025

    Starting Term - Fall 2025

    Standard Deadline - 7/11/2025

    Costs & Financial Aid

    NMC is committed to helping you find every avenue to finance your education. View the Tuition by Program & Degree page for a comprehensive list of all fees.

    Cost Per Credit Hour

    $623

    Cost of Attendance

    NMC Scholarships

    NMC Scholarships consist of funds generously provided by the Methodist Hospital Foundation to assist our students.

    Student Grants or Loans

    Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more about what's available and how to apply.

    Employee Education Benefits

    Employees of Methodist Health System can find details on the MHS Intranet.

    External Scholarships

    Visit our Scholarships page to learn more.

    Calculate Your Net Price

    Nebraska Methodist College Net Price Calculator.

    Curriculum

    The program requires a minimum of 83 credit hours. All students are required to complete specific coursework. This list should only be used as a curriculum guide. Course listings and required curriculum are subject to change. 

    Included within this list is the Educated Citizen Core Curriculum. All students seeking to complete an undergraduate degree at Nebraska Methodist College must complete this set of Arts and Sciences requirements.

    First year - First Semester

    BIO 225
    HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY I
    DETAILS
    This course will provide foundational concepts for further study and understanding of the human body as it relates to healthcare related disciplines. Terminology that is specific to the medical field is introduced. Basic principles of chemistry, physics, embryology, developmental biology, and histology are reviewed/introduced. Students are introduced to the eleven body systems. This course focuses on articulations and the integumentary, nervous, skeletal, and muscular systems. Laboratory experience will include a multi-modal approach and will include cadaveric study. 

    CHE 101
    INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY
    DETAILS
    This course is an overview of general, organic and biological chemistry with an emphasis on applications to health sciences. This course will introduce students to the basic knowledge of the properties of the matter, its reactions, and classifications. The course will discuss the main organic compounds and their properties as well as include some basic biochemistry principles. The course is accompanied by laboratory exercises which follows the material discussed.

    COR 101
    EDUCATED CITIZEN 101
    DETAILS

    PSY 101 or 215
    Introduction to Psychology or Lifespan Development
    DETAILS

    PSY 101     INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY This course offers students an engaging introduction to the essential topics in the field of psychology. Throughout this scientific study of human behavior and the mind, students will survey and gain insight into the history of the field of psychology, as well as explore current theories and issues in areas such as wellness, emotion, cognition, motivation, perception, consciousness, social and personality, and memory.

    PSY 215     LIFESPAN DEVELOPMENT The Lifespan perspective involves several basic contentions: development is life-long, multidimensional, multi-directional, plastic, historically embedded, multi-disciplinary and contextual. Three imperative developmental issues are explored: maturation and experience, continuity and discontinuity and stability and change. Students study how humans develop and how they become who they are.

    SCI 116
    MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY
    DETAILS
    This course will introduce students to terminology used in the healthcare professions. The origins of medical terms will be studied with an emphasis placed on understanding the suffixes, prefixes, combining forms, and root words used in healthcare terminology to be able to properly communicate issues related to their profession using appropriate terminology.

    First year - Second Semester

    BIO 226
    HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY II
    DETAILS
    This course will continue to apply foundational concepts of the human body as they relate to healthcare related disciplines. The structure and function of the special senses, along with the endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems are explored in this course. Laboratory experience will include a multi-modal approach and will include cadaveric study.

    Prerequisite: BIO 225 
    Prerequisite or Corequisite: CHE 101

    COM 101
    ENGLISH COMPOSITION
    DETAILS
    This course provides instruction and practice in writing, with emphasis on the recursive processes of generating, drafting, revising and editing. Students develop skills in producing and evaluating written communications in private and public contexts.

    MAT 120
    COLLEGE ALGEBRA
    DETAILS
    This course provides an advanced study of algebraic methods and prepares students for further studies in mathematics and physics. Content of the course starts with a review of basic concepts of algebra, and then it intensifies the study of the following topics: equations, inequalities, polynomials, exponents, logarithms, and the concept of functions and their graphs.

    PHY 101
    PHYSICS I
    DETAILS
    This course will introduce learners to an overview of fundamentals of physics by exploring the various phenomena of physical science. The focus of this course will include kinematics, Newton’s Laws, momentum, work and energy, sound and light waves, thermodynamics, static electricity and electric circuits. This lab includes experiments relevant to the material explored in Physics I.

    First year - Third Semester

    BIO 281
    MICROBIOLOGY
    DETAILS
    This course is designed to study the microbiology principles with a human perspective. The course will provide a basic understanding of microbial structure, function and their role in infectious diseases. There will also be an emphasis on the application of microorganisms and their relationship to various disease processes. Upon completion of the course, the students will be able to demonstrate the working knowledge of the microorganisms and their impact on infectious diseases.

    Prerequisites: CHE 101, BIO 225 or SCI 200 or college level introductory biology course
    Pre or Co-requisites: MA 110
    Co-requisites: BIO 226

    COM 255 or 262
    Beginning Healthcare Spanish or American Sign Language Basic Skills
    DETAILS

    Beginning Healthcare Spanish

    This course will provide basic knowledge of the Spanish language and Latino culture, and emphasize the importance of this knowledge as it relates to healthcare in the United States. The student will demonstrate an ability to express ideas and thoughts in Spanish using both verbal and nonverbal communication skills in a culturally competent manner. In addition, the student will develop strategies to continue acquiring proficiency with the Spanish language beyond this course.

    OR

    American Sign Language Basic Skills

    This course presents practical communication skills needed for health professionals working with deaf clients. Everyday communication is the centerpiece of every lesson. Topics revolve around sharing information which is vital in the healthcare industry. Grammar is introduced in context, with an emphasis on developing question and answering skills that would occur between healthcare professional and patient. Students will learn conversational strategies to help maintain a conversation with deaf patients. Students will appreciate the diversity of deaf people and their culture. Interaction activities will allow students to rehearse what they’ve learned.

    SCI 206
    PATHOPHYSIOLOGY/PHARMACOLOGY
    DETAILS
    This survey course begins with a major focus on cellular function and pathology, including inflammation, infection, immune response, metabolism, and fluid disequilibria. These concepts serve as the foundation for the course as alterations in various bodily functions are examined. Alterations in body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, fluid acid/base balance, gastrointestinal, urinary, respiratory, cardiac, endocrine, and neurological functions are emphasized. The student will be introduced to pharmacological principles and utilize critical thinking to explore the relationship between those concepts and commonly used classes of medications.

    Prerequisites: SCI 200 or BIO 226

    Second year - First Semester

    HUM 220-279
    HUMANITIES ELECTIVE
    DETAILS

    RCP 200
    INTRODUCTION TO RESPIRATORY CARE CLINICAL PRACTICE I
    DETAILS
    This course combines classroom, laboratory and clinical experience as an introduction to therapeutic modalities and hospital protocol. Basic cardiopulmonary assessment and therapeutic modalities are practiced in a clinical setting. Students are evaluated on affective skills such as communication, ethical behavior and professionalism.

    Prerequisites: All year-one courses. Corequisite: RCP 210

    RCP 210
    CARDIOPULMONARY PHYSIOLOGY
    DETAILS
    A comprehensive study of pulmonary and cardiovascular physiology as it applies to respiratory care. Emphasis is on integrating therapeutic and clinical application of pulmonary function, acid-base balance, neurogenesis and mechanics of ventilation, O2 and CO2 transport, ventilation versus perfusion, and hemodynamic relationships as they relate to acute and chronic diseases.

    Prerequisites: All year-one courses Corequisite: RCP 200

    RCP 240/240L
    PRINCIPLES OF RESPIRATORY CARE
    DETAILS
    This course is an introduction to basic respiratory care equipment. Theories and procedures will be presented along with a structured laboratory experience to prepare students for those skills required in proper delivery of various basic respiratory therapy modalities, to include aerosol/humidity therapy, oxygen therapy, medical gas therapy, bronchial hygiene, lung expansion therapy and infection control. The student will learn how these modalities are used in the treatment of various cardiopulmonary diseases.

    Prerequisites: RCP 200, RCP 210 Corequisites: RCP 220, RCP 260

    Second year - Second Semester

    COR 201
    EDUCATED CITIZEN 201
    DETAILS

    Prerequisites: SCI 206, RCP 220, RCP 240, RCP 260, RCP 350 Corequisites: RCP 300, RCP 310, RCP 340, RCP 360

    RCP 220
    RESPIRATORY CARE CLINICAL PRACTICE II
    DETAILS
    This course is a continuation of RCP 200. Students will complete clinical rotations in therapeutic modalities, surgery, ECG and pediatrics. Students are introduced to the adult intensive care unit and will continue to be evaluated in affective skills. Students will participate in weekly clinical discussions and case study presentations.

    Prerequisites: RCP 200, RCP 210 Corequisites: RCP 240, RCP 260

    RCP 260
    MECHANICAL VENTILATION I
    DETAILS
    An introduction to the assessment and management of acute and chronic patients who need airway care. Emphasis is upon indications, complications and maintenance of artificial airways and mechanical ventilators. Structured laboratory time is included to apply the theoretical principles of mechanical ventilation.

    Prerequisites: RCP 200, RCP 210 Corequisites: RCP 220, RCP 240

    RCP 330/330L
    CARDIOPULMONARY DIAGNOSTICS & MONITORING
    DETAILS
    An introduction to the more crucial diagnostic procedures required for assessing and monitoring the pulmonary patient. Emphasis is upon arterial blood gas analysis, pulmonary function studies and hemodynamic monitoring, ECG interpretation and nutritional assessment.

    Prerequisites: SCI 206, RCP 220, RCP 240, RCP 260, RCP 350 Corequisites: RCP 300, RCP 310, RCP 340, RCP 360

    RCP 360
    ISSUES & TRENDS IN RESPIRATORY CARE
    DETAILS
    Current issues and trends in respiratory care will be investigated and discussed in this course. In addition, students will explore issues in cultural diversity, political advocacy and managed care as it relates to healthcare.

    Prerequisites: SCI 206, RCP 220, RCP 240, RCP 260, RCP 350 Corequisites: RCP 300, RCP 310, RCP 330, RCP 340

    Second year - Third Semester

    RCP 300
    RESPIRATORY CARE CLINICAL PRACTICE III
    DETAILS
    This course is a continuation of RCP 220. Students will complete clinical rotations in diagnostic procedures/monitoring, advanced assessment skills, pulmonary function, adult intensive care and pediatric/neonatal intensive care. Students will participate in weekly clinical discussions and case study presentations and will continue to be evaluated for affective skills.

    Prerequisites: RCP 220, RCP 240, RCP 260, SCI 206, RCP 350 Corequisites: RCP 310, RCP 330, RCP 340, RCP 360

    RCP 310/310L
    MECHANICAL VENTILATION II
    DETAILS
    This course is a continuation of RCP 260. Emphasis is upon the relationship of specific pathophysiologies and the indications, management and discontinuation of mechanical ventilation. Specific ventilators and their clinical applications are presented and required skills are developed in structured laboratory time.

    Prerequisites: RCP 220, RCP 240, SCI 206, RCP 260, RCP 350 Corequisites: RCP 300, RCP 330, RCP 340, RCP 360

    RCP 340
    NEONATAL & PEDIATRIC RESPIRATORY CARE
    DETAILS
    This course is a comprehensive review of fetal development, physiology and pathophysiology of the newborn, premature infant and the pediatric patient. Applications of various respiratory care modalities are correlated to these varied pathologies.

    Prerequisites: SCI 206, RCP 220, RCP 240, RCP 260, RCP 350 Corequisites: RCP 300, RCP 310, RCP 330, RCP 360

    RCP 350
    PULMONARY REHABILITATION & HOME CARE
    DETAILS
    This course is a presentation of the methods of care and support for the patient with pulmonary disability. Emphasis is on the teaching of home care therapy, chronic care units, unique equipment needs, review of home care companies and services provided, Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement, special problems encountered and the various therapeutic techniques applied to the chronic pulmonary patient.

    Prerequisites: RCP 200, RCP 210 Corequisites: RCP 220, RCP 240

    Meet the Faculty

    Our respiratory care faculty are highly experienced and credentialed in their own fields, giving you constant real-world insight you can use.

    While any instructor can recite from a textbook, ours go a step further and draw from vast personal experience. Instructors here care as deeply about their students as they do the subject matter and it shows.

    Meet the Faculty

    Additional information

    Respiratory Therapist Blog Posts

    Respiratory Therapist Professional Organizations

    Respiratory Care Transfer Information

    The Respiratory Care program begins in the Summer. Students with transfer credit may enroll for the August or January start if advised by the program director.  Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and candidates are accepted on a rolling basis.

    University of Nebraska—Kearney Articulation Agreement

    We're pleased to have a formal agreement with the University of Nebraska at Kearney that allows students the opportunity to complete an associate degree from Nebraska Methodist College and a bachelor's degree from UNK.

    Learn How the UNK-NMC Partnership Could Work for You (PDF)

    Chadron State College Articulation Agreement

    We're pleased to have a formal agreement with Chadron State College that allows students the opportunity to complete an associate degree from Nebraska Methodist College and a bachelor's degree from CSC.

    Learn How the CSC-NMC Partnership Could Work for You (PDF)

    Wayne State College Articulation Agreement

    We're pleased to have a formal agreement with Wayne State College that allows students the opportunity to receive an associate degree from Nebraska Methodist College and bachelor’s degree from WSC.

    Learn How the WSC-NMC Partnership Could Work for You (PDF)

    Hastings College Articulation Agreement

    We're pleased to have a formal agreement with Hastings College that allows students the opportunity to receive an associate degree from Nebraska Methodist College and bachelor’s degree from Hastings College.

    Learn How the Hastings College-NMC Partnership Could Work for You (PDF)

    Technical Standards

    Purpose: To determine the physical and emotional abilities of a student in the Department in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991. Students are required to perform respective duties of the profession based on the necessary physical and emotional abilities as well as academic achievement. The College will make reasonable accommodation for all students.

    Policy: The student will possess the following skills and abilities:

    • Behavioral and Social Skills: Possess qualities of compassion, integrity, empathy and interpersonal skills. Possess emotional capacity and mental health necessary to effectively complete professional responsibilities. Ability to serve as part of a team and lead as appropriate.
    • Communication: Read, write, speak, hear, and observe patients to effectively communicate the patient's condition and interact with the patient and other healthcare individuals.
    • Integrative and Quantitative Skills: Problem solve using computation, synthesis, and analysis. Visualize and analyze three-dimensional relationships.
    • Motor and Functional Ability: Must be able to bend and lift 50 pounds with proper body mechanics, perform constant body movements, either standing, walking, stooping, or lifting. Perform therapeutic and diagnostic procedures. Deliver patient care and associated services up to 12 hours per shift.
    • Observation: Use instruments requiring sight and hearing, e.g., pulmonary function equipment and mechanical ventilators. Make observations and evaluations. Observe results of treatment and communicate patient's response to care.
    • Working Conditions: Include potential exposure to blood and body fluids, and patients with communicable disease. Students must be willing to perform infection control procedures and keep current with vaccinations/screenings.

    CoARC Respiratory Care Program Outcomes

    To prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of respiratory care practice as performed by registered respiratory therapists (RRTs).

    Graduates of the AS Respiratory Care Program will:

    1. Exhibit cognitive (knowledge) competency at the level of an entry-level respiratory therapist.
       
    2. Demonstrate clinical competence that includes the ability to perform age- appropriate patient care by incorporating assessment skills, interprofessional communication, and decision-making abilities.
       
    3. Model ethical and culturally sensitive professional attitudes and behaviors to promote excellent patient care.
       
    4. Attain the NMC Educated Citizen skills to become Reflective Individuals, Effective Communicators and Change Agents.

    AS Respiratory Care Programmatic Student Outcomes Data

    The Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care maintains the latest information on student outcomes from all accredited programs. https://coarc.com/students/programmatic-outcomes-data/ 

    CoARC accredits respiratory therapy education programs in the United States. To achieve this end, it utilizes an ‘outcomes based’ process. Programmatic outcomes are performance indicators that reflect the extent to which the educational goals of the program are achieved and by which program effectiveness is documented.