The Respiratory Care program prepares the graduate to take an active role in the maintenance and/or restoration of cardiopulmonary homeostasis. The curriculum includes intensive course work in the supporting sciences and general education areas. Classroom instruction is supplemented with learning experiences in the campus laboratory and in area hospitals. Students enrolled in the Respiratory Care program are required to achieve a minimum grade of "C" in each Respiratory Care course. Although hospitals employ the majority of respiratory therapists, other employers include home care providers, medical clinics, nursing homes, and industry. Graduates are qualified to take the national board examination in Respiratory Care in order to receive the Certified Respiratory Therapist (C.R.T.) credential.