Gwynedd Mercy University 2026-2027 University Catalog
observational and performance in nature. The student will observe advanced procedures and modalities to gain confidence and familiarity. After exposure and observation, the student will perform procedures and modalities until competency is achieved. Competency is followed by repeated practice and skill refinement. The ultimate goal is mastery of specific respiratory care-based procedures while demonstrating a high degree of expertise. Students in the third year of the program are expected to possess a high degree of expertise and proficiency with the skills and modalities addressed in the second year. The third year ' s clinical component will entail clinical rotations two days a week in the fall and spring semesters. Rotations are of an advanced nature and include specialty rotations that occur in a variety of clinical sites, including large university-teaching hospitals, pediatric and neonatal centers, community hospitals, and alternate care sites.
Upon successful completion of the program ' s third year, the student will receive an Associate Degree in Respiratory Care and be eligible to sit for the National Board for Respiratory Care( NBRC) Therapist Multiple Choice Examination. Successful completion of the Therapist Multiple Choice Examination at a designated low cut score level grants the student the Certified Respiratory Therapist( CRT) credential and allows the student to apply for a license to practice in the State of Pennsylvania.
Upon completion of the NBRC Therapist Multiple Choice Examination at a designated high cut score level, the student is eligible to sit for the NBRC Clinical Simulation Examination. Upon successful completion of this examination, the student is granted the title of Registered Respiratory Therapist( RRT) and the receipt of an exclusive registry number. The RRT is the terminal credential in the profession of respiratory care and the highest level of professional practice. All students should aspire to achieve this level of credentialing. Additional specialty examinations and credentials are available and can be addressed by the program faculty.
Fourth Year The fourth year is the baccalaureate level of the program. It is designed as a degree completion program that enhances the liberal arts and adds health science electives geared towards professional leadership in the areas of patient / family clinical education, wellness, and / or entry-level management / supervision. The bachelor’ s degree strives to prepare a well-rounded graduate prepared to provide professional leadership and service.
Bachelor of Health Science in Respiratory Care: As noted above, this option is designed as the final year of the 3-plus-1 program. It is a degree completion program designed for students seeking professional leadership, education, and / or service in Respiratory Care. Students choosing this option must first complete all course work outlined in the Associate Degree curriculum and the additional courses outlined on the curriculum sheet.
Preparation for Professional Licensure: The Associate of Science Degree in Respiratory Care is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care( CoARC) and is an Entry into Respiratory Care Professional Practice Program. It prepares the student for eligibility to sit the NBRC Examination. Upon completion of the NBRC Examination at the low-cut score, the student is eligible to secure a license from the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs of the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine to practice as a certified respiratory therapy practitioner.
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