Calhoun Brings First Respiratory Therapy Training Program to the Rocket City

Calhoun Community College is answering North Alabama’s growing demand for respiratory therapists with the launch of a new Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Respiratory Therapy. Beginning this fall, students will be able to pursue this program at Calhoun’s Huntsville campus.
 
According to Ken Kirkland, Calhoun’s Dean of Health Sciences, this accelerated five-semester program was created by a Respiratory Therapy Advisory Committee made up of representatives from more than 20 local healthcare employers, all of whom are actively seeking qualified respiratory therapists.
 
"As active members of the Alabama Society for Respiratory Care and national organizations, our faculty are committed to shaping the next generation of respiratory therapists through industry-informed instruction and real-world experience," said Emily Russell, Calhoun’s Director of Clinical Education.
 
Graduates of this program will be eligible to sit for the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) certification exams, which are required for licensure to practice as a respiratory therapist. "This program represents a major step forward in meeting the urgent need for trained respiratory therapy professionals throughout our region," said Christy Goodwin, Calhoun’s Respiratory Therapy Director. "We are incredibly grateful to our clinical partners who have opened their doors to provide real-world, hands-on learning opportunities for our students," Goodwin added.
 
The program recently earned provisional accreditation status from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), following an extensive two-year approval process. That process included collaboration with community partners, curriculum development, laboratory construction, equipment procurement, a self-study, and an on-site visit by CoARC representatives.
 
This newest addition to Calhoun’s academic programs reinforces our mission of providing access to high-demand, high-wage healthcare careers, and it also reflects our commitment to strengthening the regional healthcare workforce," said Kirkland.
 
For more information about the Respiratory Therapy program, visit www.calhoun.edu or contact the Health Sciences division at 256-890-4700.
For all media inquiries, please contact Calhoun’s Public Relations team at 256-306-2560 or 256-306-2965.