The Cardiopulmonary Science Program offers professional preparation in the twin allied health specialties of respiratory care and cardiac diagnostics. The education of cardiopulmonary science students involves the use of diagnostic procedures and therapeutic aids in the treatment of patients with deficiencies, diseases, and abnormalities associated with heart or lung disorders. Each student is prepared as a respiratory therapist and may be required to exercise considerable independent judgment in activities including assessment of pulmonary function, measurement of blood gases, care of patients with artificial airways and requiring ventilatory support, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
All students completing the program are eligible for registry in respiratory care.
Those electing the cardiac sonography track are eligible for registry as diagnostic medical sonographers, in addition to the registry in respiratory care. A degree in cardiopulmonary science offers a graduate a variety of employment opportunities. The graduate may be employed as a clinician, departmental supervisor, or manager. Work environments include acute care hospitals, skilled care facilities for ventilator-dependent patients, cardiopulmonary diagnostic centers in the hospital and outpatient care setting, and home care agencies. The program consists of two years of pre-professional course work including general education and basic science requirements, and two years in the professional program, including lectures, laboratory exercises and clinical experience.