Newman’s Respiratory Care Grads in High Demand as Healthcare Needs Skyrocket

Inside Newman University's advanced simulation laboratory, students adjust ventilators and monitor vital signs on high-fidelity mannequins—practical training that represents just one component of our comprehensive Respiratory Care program addressing one of healthcare's most urgent workforce needs.

The demand for qualified respiratory therapists continues to accelerate nationwide, with employment projected to grow 14% through 2032, significantly outpacing most healthcare occupations. This surge reflects both an aging population with increasing cardiopulmonary conditions and the expanding role of respiratory therapists across diverse healthcare settings.

"Today's respiratory therapists manage sophisticated life support systems, participate in diagnostics, and provide critical care from neonatal to geriatric patients," explains Timothy Cho, Program Director. "Our curriculum prepares students for these diverse responsibilities."

Housed within Newman's School of Healthcare Professions, the Respiratory Care program offers an Associate of Science in Health Science degree accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). The program has earned the Distinguished RRT Credentialing Success Award for consistently preparing graduates who excel in obtaining their Registered Respiratory Therapist credentials.

This recognition reflects our comprehensive approach to education, combining rigorous academics with extensive clinical rotations at regional healthcare providers like Wesley Medical Center and Ascension Via Christi in Wichita, Kansas. The program's small class sizes allow for personalized instruction from faculty who bring extensive clinical experience to the classroom.

"Our instructors don't just teach from textbooks—they draw from years of clinical practice," Cho notes. "This ensures our graduates are prepared for the complex challenges they'll face in today's healthcare environments.”

Cheyanne Mayo received the university’s 2024 Outstanding Respiratory Care Graduate Award in December. The Texas native is sold on her experience in the program. She said: “Best program around. Tim Cho, the director of the program, and Stacie Fox are the kindest, smartest people I’ve ever met. It’s tough to get through health care, but with teachers who basically parent you through it, they made it easy to get through the program.” 

"What distinguishes our program is our commitment to both technical excellence and compassionate patient care," emphasizes Cho. "Our students learn not just to treat the condition, but to support the whole person."

For those seeking a healthcare career with immediate impact and long-term growth potential, Newman's Respiratory Care program provides a proven pathway to success—and helps address a critical healthcare need in our community and beyond.

For more information about Newman's Respiratory Care program visit: https://newmanu.edu/academics/respiratory-care-wichita.

Newman University, a Catholic institution in Wichita, Kansas, empowers students through innovative programs in healthcare, business, and beyond. Rooted in a mission of service, Newman prepares graduates to lead and transform their communities. Visit https://newmanu.edu/ for more information.