Respiratory care practitioners care for patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system, like asthma, cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive lung disease. They work with patients of all ages and in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, pulmonary function labs and physicians' offices.

Check out the American American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) website to learn about the profession, job outlook, and watch a video that shows the responsibilities of a Respiratory Therapist. The New York State Society for Respiratory Care (NYSSRC) is an affiliate of the American Association for Respiratory Care.

This program is a cooperative educational endeavor with Albany Medical Center Hospital. You will be ready to enter the field of respiratory care with confidence and be prepared to sit for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Entry level Exam. Use of the title "Respiratory Therapist" or "Respiratory Therapy Technician" within New York State requires licensure through the NYS Department of Education Office of Professions.

This academic program is primarily designed for those who wish to enter the workforce immediately following graduation. Students also may choose continue their education at a four-year program. Job placement for graduates has historically been very high, with nearly 100 percent of program graduates securing positions in the profession or transferring to a four-year institution.

This program is offered by the Cardiorespiratory and Emergency Medicine Department.

[Loading Program Requirements link…] Program Learning Outcomes

NOTE: Effective Fall 2024, PHYS 110 will replace the MATH 132 course requirement.

Play video
Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapist

Learn about the duties and responsibilities of becoming a Respiratory Therapist and how you can prepare for this profession.
Watch Respiratory Therapist on YouTube.com

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Trisha L
“I’m grateful for the program and I’m definitely prepared to go out in the workforce.”

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NOTE: Additional educational requirements and/or certifications may be needed for some careers.

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The Center for Careers and Transfer provides career resources and services and help in identifying your skills and interests and how they connect to career possibilities. Transfer counseling services are also available and a list of transfer agreements are posted.

Mandatory Professional Licensure Disclosures

SUNY's academic programs leading to licensure or certification are carefully designed to meet and exceed New York State requirements. Other states may have their own requirements. If your goal is to practice in another state, please review that state's requirements. View professional licensure disclosures.

Get in Touch

Department or program information:

Patricia Hyland
CARDIORESPIRATORY AND EMERGENCY MEDICINE DEPARTMENT CHAIRPERSON
400 Jordan Road, Suite B (second floor)

NOTE: Email is the preferred method of contact.

Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Program admission information:

Guenther Enrollment Services Center, Room 223