Students are admitted into the program once a year only, for each Fall semester. The application period is open January 15 - May 1.

Approximately 25 students are admitted to the program each year. Selection is based on criteria approved by the Skyline College Administration and consistent with state regulations (see application instructions). Contact us for further information on the Respiratory Care Program. Full-time registration is required, and all courses must be taken in sequence. Credit may be given for previous coursework.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

The following college-level courses must be completed with a “C” or better:

  • Math Prerequisite - Intermediate Algebra, an equivalent course, or higher-level Math
  • Chemistry (with lab) – CHEM 192, 410 or equivalent
  • Human Anatomy (with lab) – BIO 250 or equivalent
  • Medical Terminology – HSCI 484 or BUS 485 or equivalent
  • Composition - ENGL 100, 105 or equivalent

All academic prerequisites must be completed by the application deadline. Eligibility can be demonstrated through successful course completion of Intermediate Algebra, an equivalent course, or higher level math.

Respiratory Care
Lottery Protocol:

 

View Lottery Protocol  

 

NOTE: Students admitted into the program must complete Human Physiology equivalent to BIOL 260 by the end of the first fall semester; and Microbiology equivalent to BIOL 240 by the end of the first spring semester. Students are strongly encouraged to complete these courses prior to admission into the program.

Application Steps:

STEP 1: Apply to Skyline College

Follow the steps to enroll at Skyline College.

STEP 2: Complete the Respiratory Care Online Application

Applicants must complete the Respiratory Care Associate Degree Online Application. Please be prepared to answer all questions in one sitting. The application will take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete.

To fill out the application, you will need:

  • Information ready to complete prior educational history and prerequisite grades, such as copies of transcripts.
  • Information ready to complete a brief medical history on any chronic conditions or communicable illnesses.
  • An approximately 500-word personal-statement ready to copy and paste that answers the following prompt: In your own words, please write a description of yourself, your goals, and why you chose respiratory care. Please address your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Digital copies (PDF or Word files) of all unofficial transcripts showing completed prerequisites.

STEP 3: Submit Three Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit three (3) letters of recommendation. Applicants should download the Standard Form   which describes what should be included in the letter. A general letter is acceptable addressing the qualities in the Standard Form. Please read the instructions on the reference form before giving them to the recommenders. The following are suggested categories for recommenders:

  • Dean, counselor, principal
  • Teacher or instructor
  • Health care workers
  • Employer or supervisor
  • Leaders of community organizations (volunteer, church or club)

Recommendations from close friends or relatives will not be accepted. Completed recommendation forms may be uploaded during the application process, or brought/mailed to: Skyline College, SMT Division/RCP Program, 3300 College Dr, San Bruno, CA 94066.

Please Note: Your application will not be considered COMPLETE until you receive verification that all three steps are complete.

Questions? Contact Nadia Tariq, Respiratory Care Program Services Coordinator, at tariqn@smccd.edu.

After Acceptance:

After acceptance, once notified, students must successfully complete a physical examination, immunization record, social security referenced background check, and drug test.

Please Note:

We recommend that minimum entrance requirement courses be completed within 5 years of applying to the program. High school coursework cannot be accepted to meet prerequisite requirements.

To determine specific General Education requirements, applicants are encouraged to contact Counseling. We suggest that you complete most GE requirements prior to submitting your application.

Students selected into the program must complete a satisfactory social security referenced background check, drug test, physical examination, and documented immunizations.

An Associate Degree is required to take the Respiratory Care Practitioner Exam administered by the California Respiratory Care Board.