Respiratory Therapist

Hands-On Learning and Real-World Experience

At Southeast Technical College, students learn from qualified, professional instructors with vast experience in their industry. While completing coursework in the Respiratory Therapist program, students spend a significant amount of time in our true-to-life learning labs located in STC's Terrence Sullivan Health Science Center and completing clinical rotations at a medical facility. Students also gain:

Technical Skills: Graduates of STC’s Respiratory Therapist program will be able to demonstrate the management of invasive and non-invasive ventilation equipment and explain the pathophysiology of cardiopulmonary diseases.

Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Skills: Students learn to assess data to find changes in patient conditions and interpret the diagnostic values from respiratory assistance devices.

Communication Skills: Students learn how to effectively communicate key points of treatment regimens to patients and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.

Professionalism: Graduates will maintain ethical standards and facilitate diversity, equity and inclusion in their careers.

What can You do With Your Associate Degree?

Locally, Sioux Falls is home to two of the state’s largest healthcare systems: Avera Health and Sanford Health. These leaders and other healthcare facilities have a true need for respiratory therapists and consistently seek out STC graduates.

Students also have the option to continue their education and obtain a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution.

Job Outlook