Only the third of its kind in the state of Florida and one of a select few nationwide, the entry-level Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BS-RT) is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills to meet the growing demand for respiratory care professionals.
Why Study Respiratory Therapy at UWF?
UWF's program is supported by faculty with extensive experience in the respiratory care field, including roles in clinical practice, administration, and education, providing students with valuable insights and mentorship.
The Entry into Respiratory Care Professional Practice BS-RT program is designed to provide students with an outstanding education in preparation for a satisfying professional career as respiratory care practitioners as well as to provide a foundation for leadership in management and supervision, education, research and clinical specializations.
What You Will Learn
Respiratory therapy is the allied health discipline that specializes in the treatment and care of the heart and lungs. Respiratory therapists work closely with patients struggling to breathe, providing immediate relief and long-term care. With the increasing prevalence of respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD and lung infections, as well as aging populations and complications related to COVID-19, the demand for highly trained respiratory therapists is growing. This program will prepare graduates to meet these healthcare needs, providing in-depth education in areas such as critical care, neonatal-pediatric care and advanced diagnostic procedures.
The BS-RT program combines both lecture-based and lab-based courses, covering a wide range of respiratory therapy-specific topics, including patient assessment, mechanical ventilation, pharmacotherapy, advanced patient monitoring, and cardiopulmonary diseases and diagnostics. Following a flipped classroom model, students will spend the majority of classroom time with the instructor applying what they’ve learned through interactive labs, in-person discussions and clinical-based simulations.
UWF’s BS-RT program will prepare graduates to work in various healthcare settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, home healthcare and research institutions. The program also opens doors to management positions within healthcare organizations, teaching roles and research opportunities, in addition to laying the foundation for those who wish to pursue graduate studies in related fields.
UWF offers classes through various delivery methods, including face-to-face, hybrid, and online. Though UWF makes every effort to provide on-campus classes in face-to-face programs, there is a possibility that some classes will have limited availability and may be offered online only. For more information, review the modes of delivery and instructional methods.
