Respiratory Therapy

The Respiratory Therapy program focuses on developing proficiency in respiratory care practices, enabling graduates to carry out diagnostic and therapeutic procedures across diverse and evolving practice environments.

Graduates of accredited programs are eligible to pursue certification through the National Board of Respiratory Care, allowing them to obtain a license to practice in multiple health care settings.

Health Sciences Advising
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Admissions questions
919-866-5420
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All applicants must complete the following requirements:

• Apply to Wake Tech
• Complete the Respiratory Therapy program information session and Quiz of Understanding
• Apply for financial aid and veterans benefits (if applicable)
• Once admitted, follow the steps to enroll on the New Student Checklist

The Respiratory Therapy (RCP) program is a limited-enrollment program and uses a competitive admissions procedure with a point system, not a waiting list, to determine who can register for RCP classes. Applicants are ranked based on points that are determined by grades earned in the general education classes required for the program, such as ENG-111, ENG 112, a Humanities elective, PSY-150 and BIO-163. Grades of "C" or better are required in all program-related curriculum classes.

NOTE: BIO classes must have been completed within five years of the first RCP class, and MAT-110 or equivalent must be completed within 10 years of the first RCP class.

The following items are requirements for the Respiratory Therapy program selection process and must be submitted by the program application deadline:

• Submit the following materials between October 1 and January 31 for the Fall class
  • A completed program application
  • A copy of your active listing on the North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry or proof of completion of an associate degree or diploma in Medical Assisting. (Other health care-related associate degrees may be considered upon the program director's approval.)
    NOTE: Applicants completing the Nurse Aide course by January 31 but awaiting their first attempt at the state exam will be considered for Fall 2025 admission. To qualify, submit proof of course completion by the January 31 admissions deadline, along with other application materials. Applicants must be on the N.C. Nurse Aide Registry by March 15 and submit a copy of their registry information by that date.
• Submit official TEAS scores. The scores must come directly from ATI. It is advisable to take the TEAS after you have completed ENG-111 and BIO-163. Review the TEAS Testing page for more information.
  NOTE: If you need to retake the TEAS exam, you must wait a minimum of 30 days to retest. Only two tests are allowed per calendar year.
• Once admitted into RCP classes, students are required to attend a mandatory departmental orientation and complete all clinical site requirements.