Respiratory Therapists (RTs) examine and provide treatments for patients of all ages who have trouble breathing. They use instruments and tests to evaluate breathing and oxygenation. RTs perform chest physiotherapy, connect patients to ventilators, and instruct patients and their families on how to maintain home oxygen therapy.
This degree is offered in collaboration with Ferris State University and is awarded by Ferris. For that reason, this program on its own is not Financial Aid eligible through West Shore Community College.
Students complete their general education courses at WSCC prior to being admitted by Ferris into the program. Interested students should contact an advisor at Student Services to set up an appointment to explore program requirements, and additional information can be obtained from Ferris at 231‐591‐2270. Additional information can be found here.
The Respiratory Care Program is a seven semester course of study in cooperation with Ferris State University leading to an Associate of Applied Science Degree from Ferris. The respiratory care courses in the first year of the program can be taken online from Ferris in conjunction with West Shore courses. To be accepted into the program, the general education courses listed under WSCC must be completed. In addition, a cumulative grade point average of 2.7 is required with a minimum grade of a B‐ in each math and science courses within two attempts. Contact the Ferris Program Coordinator for additional information at 231.591.2261.
The curriculum is designed so that all lecture courses through Ferris are delivered over the Internet. The laboratory courses meet on Ferris’ campus or at an off campus location. During the laboratory session, students practice with various pieces of equipment as they develop their patient care skill in preparation for the clinical internships. Register and pay the tuition for these courses through Ferris.
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