Associate of Applied Sciences in Respiratory Therapy

Respiratory therapists work with patients of all ages to evaluate, monitor and treat breathing disorders and cardiovascular problems, such as asthma and emphysema. This may include administering oxygen, measuring lung function, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation in emergencies, or managing mechanical ventilators.

The 2-year Respiratory Therapy program leads to an Associate in Applied Sciences degree, Respiratory Therapy. Program graduates are eligible to take the Therapist Multiple Choice (TMC) examination administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care to earn certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Students may then become eligible to take the Clinical Simulation to earn their Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.

• Fall 2023 - Application Deadline (Aug 15) and Classes Start (Sep 25)
• Winter 2024 - Application Deadline (Nov 15) and Classes Start (Jan 3)
• Spring 2024 - Application Deadline (Feb 15) and Classes Start (April 1)

A Place for Every Student

TCC offers a welcoming campus environment with numerous opportunities. A comprehensive state-supported community college serving more than 790,000 residents of the Tacoma-Pierce County area, our service district includes all of Tacoma and the Pierce County portion of the Olympic Peninsula and serves the Tacoma and Peninsula school districts.

Our Mission

As the community college, we create meaningful learning, advance equity, and strengthen student and community success. We do that by offering transfer degrees, professional and technical skills certifications, and specialty programs that serve diverse educational needs. Because we believe college should be open, accessible, and affordable for everyone.

Whether TCC is your first step toward a four-year degree, or you need technical skills to prepare you for the workforce – you’ll discover that no matter who you are or where you want to go, TCC welcomes you.

TCC International Programs

Tacoma Community College (TCC) is committed to the success of each student and is excited to welcome international students from around the globe. Join us to study your...

• Associate Degree for university transfer (2+2)
• Improve your English language skills (EAP: English for Academic Purposes)
• Complete High School and college concurrently (High School Completion)
• Attain a certificate