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Respiratory Therapy
Applications will open October 1.
Don’t miss your chance to start in September 2026. Meet with an advisor to get your questions answered.
Get StartedWork toward an exciting, high-demand career in allied health care with a Respiratory Therapy Diploma.
This program teaches you the latest in respiratory care theory and provides you with the active, hands-on laboratory experience you need to succeed as a respiratory therapist.
What is respiratory therapy?
Respiratory therapy is a health profession devoted to the scientific application of technology to assist in the diagnosis, treatment, management and care of patients with cardiopulmonary and associated disorders. It is the only health profession with core curriculum and clinical practice in both critical and community care.
Program options
Respiratory Therapy Diploma
Three-year program completion option that provides you with the knowledge and clinical skills you need to practice as an respiratory therapist.
Dual credential—Respiratory Therapy Diploma and Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc)
Four-year program completion option that allows you to complete both a Respiratory Therapy Diploma and a BHSc degree. *If seats are available
Fast-track stream—direct entry into second year
Two-year program completion option that you can access if you have completed some lower-level science pre-requisites. Preference is given to those who already have a BSc or associate Science degree.
Respiratory Therapy Diploma/Master of Education
Complete both the Respiratory Therapy Diploma and MEd programs simultaneously. You must qualify and meet the requirements for the fast-track Respiratory Therapy Diploma option to access this program option.
What will I learn?
You will prepare for a rewarding career as a respiratory therapist — a licensed health-care professional specializing in cardiopulmonary care. You will practice the clinical skills necessary to gain specialized medical expertise and understand the advanced practice required to become a successful respiratory therapist.
- Learn the latest in respiratory care theory.
- Take an active, hands-on approach to learning in the laboratory and simulation lab.
- Engage in an 11-month clinical hospital internship.
- Learn to apply life-saving skills to people in need.
- Register to write the National Respiratory Therapist Certification Examination in January or July after graduating from the program.
Career insights
Respiratory therapy is a high-demand field, and RTs are urgently needed in Canada and abroad to treat, manage and care for patients with cardiopulmonary and other breathing disorders. Respiratory therapists directly impact the lives of the youngest to the most senior patients in various health care settings.
Respiratory therapists work in various hospitals and clinical settings, including:
- Emergency departments and adult, pediatric and/or neonatal intensive care units
- Operating rooms
- Various hospital wards
- Diagnostic departments such as pulmonary function labs and bronchoscopy
- Out-patient clinics
- Home care, obstructive sleep apnea clinics, asthma/respiratory education and pulmonary rehab clinics
- Marketing and sales of respiratory equipment
- Policy and research
We meet you where you’re at
Meet with an advisor to ask questions, understand the application process and get prepared. Book an appointment.
Join us for a virtual info session for a program overview, admission requirements and career insights. Attend a virtual info session.
Ready to apply? Apply here.
