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Respiratory therapists specialize in the treatment and care of patients with breathing disorders such as asthma, emphysema, and pneumonia. Patients range from premature infants with underdeveloped lungs to elderly patients with chronic lung disease. Respiratory therapists perform pulmonary function tests and arterial blood gas analysis. They administer oxygen therapy, bronchodilator medications, and mechanical ventilation to support patients’ breathing. They also provide emergency care to patients suffering from heart attacks, drowning, or shock. Learn more about this career.
Students in the pre-respiratory therapy program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney may receive a Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Health Sciences from UNK after satisfactory completion of 85 semester hours of pre-respiratory therapy courses and a 12-month clinical year at Nebraska Methodist College. Students in the Nebraska Methodist College’s respiratory therapy clinical program will complete their training in Kearney at Good Samaritan Hospital. This is often referred to a as a "3+1" Pathway.
from 2023 to 2033 according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Acceptance into a respiratory therapy professional clinical training program is competitive and not guaranteed. Admission is based on GPA, test scores, recommendation letters, an interview, essay, shadowing and medical experience, and other extra-curricular activities. Our dedicated advisors will guide and equip students to excel in these areas. In addition, smaller class sizes, top faculty, and unique learning experiences such as research opportunities will give you an advantage. UNK students in the pre-respiratory therapy program have a phenomenal acceptance rate showcasing our commitment to excellence.
We’re here to help! Contact a program coordinator.
The class schedule below is a sample timeline for progress toward a Pre-Respiratory Therapy degree at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. For more information about requirements and course options, consult with your academic advisor.
UNK is Nebraska’s most affordable university even BEFORE financial aid is awarded. You’ll quickly discover that no one works harder than UNK to reduce the cost of an education and provide the best value. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid for your Pre-Respiratory Therapy Program
at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
