Respiratory Therapy Associate of Science

The Bakersfield College Respiratory Therapy Associate Degree Program prepares students to become skilled respiratory therapists, working in hospitals and healthcare facilities. The program offers both didactic and clinical education, providing a foundation in critical thinking and hands-on patient care. Students will be eligible for national certification exams and licensure upon completion. The 24-month program requires a full-time commitment, including summer sessions, and students may need to travel to clinical sites. Career opportunities include roles in various healthcare settings, with an excellent job outlook for graduates.

Prerequisite Coursework: All pre-requisites must be completed at the time the application is submitted, and applicants must have earned a “C” grade or higher at BC, or an equivalent course at another accredited college. *Please note that there is a minimum of 2.5 combined GPA required, and no less than a “C” in any course for the Biological Sciences. Microbiology; Anatomy & Physiology; Math; Chemistry at Bakersfield College or an equivalent course at another accredited college must be taken as prerequisites to entering the Respiratory Therapy program. Medical Terminology and NURS B99 are strongly recommended.

General Education Coursework: General education courses are required to graduate from Bakersfield College with an Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy. It is suggested that most of these courses be completed prior to beginning the Respiratory Therapy Program. Courses must be completed with a “C” grade or better. 

Upon completion of graduation requirements and the required degree courses with at least a “C” or “P” grade in each course, the student will be eligible for an Associate of Science degree.

The program will have twenty-two enrolled students per year as allocated by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and regional respiratory department availability. Assuming a 25% loss of students through attrition, the program projects 17 students completing the program on time.

Bakersfield College’s mission is to provide opportunities for students from diverse economic, cultural, and educational backgrounds to attain Associate and Baccalaureate degrees and certificates, workplace skills, and preparation for transfer. The college’s rigorous and supportive learning environment promotes equity and fosters students’ abilities to think critically, communicate effectively, and demonstrate competencies and skills to engage productively in their communities and the world.
A Respiratory Care program aligns with this mission by providing a specialized curriculum that prepares students for careers in healthcare, specifically as respiratory therapists. The program would offer associate degrees and certificates, equipping students with the necessary workplace skills. It will also prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions if they wish to pursue further education in the field.
In terms of curriculum, the program will include courses in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, respiratory care procedures, critical care, neonatal and pediatric care, and more. These courses would provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the respiratory system and the skills needed to treat patients with respiratory ailments.
The program would also align with Bakersfield College’s Educational Master Plan, which emphasizes the importance of preparing students for the evolving workforce.

Prerequisite Coursework: All pre-requisites must be completed at the time the application is submitted, and applicants must have earned a “C” grade or higher at BC, or an equivalent course at another accredited college. *Please note that there is a minimum of 2.5 combined GPA required, and no less than a “C” in any course for the Biological Sciences. Microbiology; Anatomy & Physiology; Math; Chemistry at Bakersfield College or an equivalent course at another accredited college must be taken as prerequisites to entering the Respiratory Therapy program. Medical Terminology and NURS B99 are strongly recommended.

General Education Coursework: General education courses are required to graduate from Bakersfield College with an Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy. It is suggested that most of these courses be completed prior to beginning the Respiratory Therapy Program. Courses must be completed with a “C” grade or better.