Respiratory care professionals treat patients who exhibit a range of diverse health issues including asthma, pneumonia, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, lung cancer as well as those who are having respiratory problems related to trauma, strokes, heart attacks, and premature birth.

Through classroom, laboratory and diverse clinical site practicum, students develop the necessary health care knowledge, bedside skills and problem-solving abilities to serve the health needs of patients from newborns to the elderly. They are prepared to manage both acute and chronic diseases that affect the cardiopulmonary system as well as trauma, sub-acute disease, and public health issues from asthma to tuberculosis.