Students may only complete the first two years of this program at IU Kokomo.

Respiratory therapists help in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of patients with heart and lung problems. Patients may be in newborn nursery units, in surgical and medical units, in emergency rooms, and in outpatient departments and intensive care units of hospitals. Patients may have chronic conditions that threaten their lives, or have birth defects or accident connected disabilities affecting their heart, lungs, or other body organs.

Sophisticated equipment may be necessary to help people continue breathing. Respiratory therapists assist patients with systems and procedures such as airway management, artificial mechanical ventilation, external cardiac massage, and other heart and lung support measures. Many patients who might not otherwise have survived are now returning to active lives.  Respiratory therapists also perform patient care in carrying out physicians’ orders with specific therapeutic measures. They may provide and recommend specialized respiratory care. They are concerned about total patient welfare, realizing that some procedures may affect a patient’s overall physiologic status. Respiratory therapists use a variety of testing techniques to assist in medical research and diagnosis of disease in performing their function as a part of the health care team.

Degree Requirements

The respiratory therapy program offers a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy degree. In the first two years of college, students take prerequisite courses so that they may enter the professional portion of the degree program in the junior year. Counselors assist the students in choosing the proper beginning courses. Students apply for admission to the respiratory therapy program in the fall semester one year prior to their anticipated entry. The admission process includes a personal interview during the spring semester.

The curriculum provides an understanding of the biological and physical sciences and disease processes, as well as of the technical equipment and procedures necessary to prepare graduates to function as important members of the health care team. Students become acquainted with the field through classes, laboratories, and in-hospital clinical experiences. Six hospitals in Indianapolis provide laboratory and direct patient care experience. 

Please consult the IUPUI Bulletin for additional admission requirements and prerequisite courses.