2021-2022 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Respiratory Care
Website: gvsu.edu/ahs
The Bachelor of Science in respiratory care (RC) B.S. in RC degree advancement program resides within the Allied Health Sciences (AHS) Department. The program prepares respiratory therapists with the knowledge, skills, and attributes to serve as educators, researchers, managers, and leaders within the profession and the health care industry. Students choose to complete the 45 required credits within one full year (three semesters) or choose to complete the program on a part-time basis. The format for the major courses is online and hybrid.
The program is designed for respiratory therapists who have graduated from a Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) associate degree or associate of applied science degree entry-level program and achieved at least the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential. A minimum of 120 credits are required for a bachelor's degree. Students can transfer up to 80 credits from the respiratory care associate/associate of applied science degree program.
Current GVSU students interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree in respiratory care are encouraged to contact a College of Health Professions Student Services academic advisor: gvsu.edu/chpss. The advisor can assist with setting up an academic plan to meet the qualifications to apply to the program.
Students admitted into the program as a CRT must achieve the advanced Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential as a graduation requirement. Therefore, prior to taking the capstone course - RSC 495 and in order to graduate with the B.S. in RC degree, students must successfully complete the RRT credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care Program
The final program admission decision is made by the B.S. in RC program faculty. Applicants are reviewed for admission based on their cumulative GPA, all college transferable coursework, and their personal statement. Satisfactorily completing the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the program, as seats are limited. Students may reapply if not admitted.
- Associate degree in respiratory care from a CoARC accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) or Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) who is RRT eligible
- Application for admission to GVSU
- Submission of official transcripts from colleges/universities attended
- Completed BSRC program application
- Personal statement of career goals and how this program will help achieve educational and professional objectives