Once accepted into the Respiratory Care program, students are assigned a faculty advisor based on the first letter of their last name: A-L — Jodi Lhamers; M-Z — Jenn Walton. Students are required to meet with their assigned advisor each semester. These advising sessions help students review non-technical academic progress, plan their prescribed course sequence, identify challenges early, and connect with academic support resources.
Admissions • Credentialing • Next steps
After completing the accredited degree program, graduates pursue the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) credentialing examination. The NBRC is implementing a redesigned Respiratory Therapy examination in January 2027. Most Stark State graduates plan to practice in Ohio, where respiratory therapists must also obtain a Respiratory Care Professional license through the State Medical Board of Ohio before practicing. Graduates planning to work in another state must meet that state's licensing requirements. Students should consult the NBRC and the applicable state licensing board for current requirements.
Stark State College's Respiratory Care program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).
An associate degree can prepare graduates for entry into respiratory care practice. Some graduates later pursue bachelor's-level education for additional career development, including leadership, education, and other advanced pathways. The University of Akron and Youngstown State University are current articulation partners. Either will accept all SSC credits toward completion of a bachelor's degree.
Confirm current admission prerequisites, application deadlines, and required documents with the program.
□ Meet with an advisor to plan prerequisite science and general education courses.
□ Obtain the current program application, curriculum, and tentative course schedule.
□ Submit the completed application by the published deadline; plan for daytime classes, clinical travel, and personal commitments.
QUESTIONS?
Respiratory Care Program Coordinator: Brooke Owen
Stark State College • North Canton, Ohio
Phone: 234-395-7470 • Email: Bowen@starkstate.edu
Course availability, clinical placements, admission requirements, tuition, and schedules may change. The official Stark State College catalog and current program materials govern. This guide is intended as an introduction for prospective students.