
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Respiratory Therapy program at Columbia Basin College is designed to equip graduates with essential knowledge and skills in cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains for respiratory care practice. The curriculum combines rigorous academic study with practical, hands-on clinical training. Instruction takes place at the CBC Health Science Center and regional clinical facilities. Graduates will be prepared to assess, manage, and treat patients with cardiopulmonary disorders, operate specialized equipment, and provide emergency care. The program aims to develop future leaders in respiratory care by incorporating content on management, education, research, and advanced clinical practice.
Graduates of the Respiratory Therapy program are prepared for roles in various healthcare settings, managing patients with cardiopulmonary disorders. The program aims to develop leaders in the field, potentially in areas of management, education, research, or advanced clinical practice.
Admission to the program is competitive and based on an Admission Index Score. This score is calculated using your cumulative GPA in prerequisite courses and points awarded for completion of specific prerequisite courses. Bonus points may be awarded for certain achievements. Completion of entrance requirements does not guarantee admission.
Tuition and living cost information are not provided on the program page. Prospective students should contact the university directly for the most current financial details.
Columbia Basin College is seeking programmatic accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). Approval is anticipated in Fall 2026. The college is approved by the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Applicants must complete specific prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of 2.0 (C) in each, including subjects like Human Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, and English Composition. Admission is competitive and based on an Admission Index Score.
The application submission deadline for a Fall 2026 start is May 10, 2026. The program starts annually in the Fall Quarter.
The application process involves attending an information session, applying for general admission to Columbia Basin College, meeting with a completion coach, completing prerequisite courses, and submitting the program application along with official transcripts.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Respiratory Therapist, Critical Care Specialist, and Pulmonary Diagnostics Specialist, among others. The program also aims to develop leaders in healthcare education, management, research, or advanced clinical practice.
Columbia Basin College is seeking programmatic accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), with approval anticipated in Fall 2026.