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Mandatory requirements
Applicants for this program are required to complete the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing process as an admission requirement for this program by the set deadlines. Review admission requirements for more details.
Overview
Our intensive Respiratory Therapy program trains you to diagnose, treat, and manage cardio-respiratory patients in various medical settings.
This program leverages theory and practical application to equip you with the skills needed for a successful career.
In this program, you will:
- learn life-saving procedures like cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced ventilator management
- master oxygen and aerosol therapies to support patient breathing
- develop comprehensive skills in patient evaluation
- gain experience with pulmonary function testing and blood analysis
- engage in simulations that mimic real patient responses in SAIT’s Centre for Advanced Patient Care Simulation
- acquire hands-on experience in diverse settings, including ICU, emergency departments and home care environments
- benefit from classroom studies that cover new technologies and best practices in care for the respiratory system.
Embark on a career as a therapist in acute and community care settings, diagnostic labs and beyond. With experience, you can move into education, research, administration or management roles within the healthcare sector.
With a history of training successful graduates since 1970, our program is a beacon for those looking to make an impact in respiratory therapy.
Respiratory therapists tend to be objective, methodical and innovative.
You need:
- effective communication skills
- organization, critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- the ability to tolerate the sight of human blood and tissue
- physical stamina to transport, lift, and position patients and equipment
- compassion and an interest in caring for others
- the ability to act quickly and decisively in a crisis
- the ability to work well under stress, maintain professional behaviour and regulate your emotions
- the ability to work on your own and within a team.
You will need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for long periods, which includes exposure to latex and other disinfection materials. You should be comfortable performing patient care procedures in very close proximity to your patients.
Some roles require extended work hours and shift work, including nights and weekends.
If you intend to work in Alberta after graduation and your first language is not English, you will need to meet the English language requirements of the College of Respiratory Therapists of Alberta (CRTA).
You are encouraged to refer to the ALIS website for career, learning, and employment information for respiratory therapists and the National Competency Framework for the profession to ensure you can successfully meet the occupational requirements for the program and profession.
The opportunity to advance your education by transferring into this program or gain credit for previous postsecondary courses may be available.
There may also be opportunities to further your education once you graduate.
Learn more about program and institution transfer options.
You’ll complete practicum rotations in adult, pediatric and neonatal intensive care units, the emergency department, anesthesia, wards, home care, pulmonary function and blood gas labs.
Your shifts will be scheduled during weekdays, weekends, evenings or overnight hours. During the program’s third-year practicum rotation, you’ll spend most of your time in the workplace but will be required to return to SAIT for one week each semester, regardless of your practicum location.
You will be assigned practicum placements with consideration given to your preference of location. However, due to limited availability in Calgary, it might be necessary for you to travel or relocate outside the city.
Special considerations will not be accommodated. You will be responsible for covering the associated fees of the practicum, including entrance requirements, relocation, and travel costs.
In compliance with the practica agreements with our clinical partners, you will be required to provide specific documentation before you can participate in your practicum. Find out what requirements you need for this program.
In addition to the standard requirements, you’ll need to complete the Neonatal Resuscitation Program offered by the Canadian Pediatric Society. Proof of completion must be submitted before your fifth semester. The certification must be valid for the entire practicum year.
Some seats in this program are reserved for applicants currently residing in Saskatchewan and Manitoba via our interprovincial health training agreements. Some intakes are exclusively for these applicants. Limited space is available.
Our Respiratory Therapy program is accredited by Accreditation Canada. SAIT works closely with our advisory committee to ensure our curriculum continues to exceed provincial and national accreditation standards.
Graduates must successfully challenge the Health Professionals Testing Canada (HPTC) examination to earn the right to practice respiratory therapy in Canada. Most provinces in Canada have a provincial regulatory body, which you will need to join to work in that province.
All graduates may become members of the Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists (CSRT) by paying the membership fee required in an unregulated province.
Some regulators require applicants to take a specific English language assessment to register. For example, the College of Respiratory Therapists of Alberta requires a benchmark score of nine in all the Enhanced Language Training Placement Assessment categories. Please contact the regulator of the province you wish to work in to determine their specific requirements.
After successfully completing this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Respiratory Therapy diploma.
Careers and opportunities
Each year, SAIT conducts a survey between February and April to determine the employment rate, salary and satisfaction of our newest SAIT alumni.
100% graduate employment rate
$78,000 average starting salary
Find out more about our graduate employment statistics >
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.
Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 32103, 32123, 30010, 41404.
Career counselling and support
Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.
You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.
Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.
Services and workshopsCourses
The Respiratory Therapy diploma requires 96 credits (27 courses) to complete.
The program spans three years, with two semesters in the first and second year, and three semesters in the third year.
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
|
Core concepts vital to respiratory care practice are explored, including medical terminology, infection control, occupational health and safety, computer skills and an introduction to medical research. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
The main respiratory pathologies encountered by respiratory therapists are addressed with an emphasis on obstructive and restrictive disorders as well as the pharmacological interventions used in disease management. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
Pathophysiology 2 presents the main non-respiratory pathologies encountered by respiratory therapists as well as pathologies relevant for neonatal and pediatric care. Each pathology is investigated with emphasis on the pathophysiology and clinical management of these disorders and the pharmacological treatments used in their management. |
3 |
|
A case-based approach to pathophysiology challenges the learner to apply and integrate knowledge from previous courses to realistic clinical cases with complex presentations. Pre-requisites:
|
1.5 |
|
In this course, patient management skills and clinical competency are developed during a hands-on clinical practicum where learners are engaged in managing real-life situations, under the guidance of a preceptor. Learners are expected to demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and critical-thinking skills in all practice areas. A focus is placed on reflective practice and continuous self-improvement. Pre-requisites:
Corequsites:
|
6 |
|
In this course, patient management skills and clinical competency are applied during a hands-on clinical practicum where learners use their knowledge, skills, and attitudes to manage real-life situations under the guidance of a preceptor. Learners are expected to demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and critical-thinking skills in all practice areas. Focus is also placed on reflective practice and continuous self-improvement. Pre-requisites:
Corequsites:
|
6 |
|
In this course, patient management skills and clinical competency are modelled during a hands-on clinical practicum where learners use their knowledge, skills, and attitudes to manage real-life situations to a competent level, under the guidance of a preceptor. Learners are expected to demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and critical-thinking skills in all practice areas. Focus is also placed on reflective practice and continuous self-improvement. Pre-requisites:
Corequsites:
|
6 |
|
The anatomy and physiology of the human body is explored with an emphasis on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Foundational principles are introduced regarding pathology and how structure and function can be affected by disease. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
Learners will be provided with the opportunity to develop foundational patient assessment skills for lower-acuity patients by using an integrated approach of classroom and lab. Focus will be placed on a complete evaluation of a respiratory patient including interviewing, vital signs, respiratory assessment, basic diagnostics and documentation. |
3 |
|
This first of four clinical practice courses is designed to guide learners through the practicum experience and clinical practice. The history and background of the profession of respiratory therapy will be discussed. An introduction will also be provided on learning strategies, ethics, conflict management, professionalism and the preceptor model of education. A case-based exam and evaluative clinical scenario will be completed at the end of the course. |
3 |
|
Through lab and classroom learning, the fundamentals of chemistry and physics are applied to the field of respiratory care with an emphasis on medical gases, humidity and aerosol therapy as well as oxygen therapy, sources and delivery systems. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
Through a combination of lab and classroom learning, basic respiratory therapy patient assessment techniques are introduced and include hemodynamic monitoring, monitoring of other body systems and advanced diagnostics such as arterial blood gases and non-invasive respiratory monitoring. Focus will be on the overall assessment of a moderate- to high-acuity patient. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
Learners will be guided through the practicum experience and prepared for clinical practice in this second of four clinical practice courses which involves classroom instruction and clinical simulation. Topics include the history of respiratory therapy, ethical issues, death and dying, adverse medical events and conflict resolution. A case-based exam and evaluative clinical scenario will be completed at the end of the course. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
Lab-based learning and classroom theory are blended to introduce foundational knowledge and skills in basic patient interventions, including airway management, bronchopulmonary hygiene, medication administration and mechanical ventilation of the adult patient. Emphasis is placed on integration of safe practices, infection control principles and critical thinking into the performance of patient interventions. Pre-requisites:
|
6 |
|
In Anesthesia, concepts regarding the fundamentals of anesthetic procedures, pharmacology, equipment and patient safety and the role of the respiratory therapist in the operating room are examined. Pre-requisites:
|
1.5 |
|
Patient Assessment 3 is a combination of practical and classroom learning where learners expand their patient evaluation skills to include advanced assessment on neonatal, pediatric and adult patient populations. Learners will be challenged to fully assess all patient populations, at all levels of acuity, including end-of-life scenarios. |
3 |
|
RT Clinical Practice 3 is the third of four clinical practice courses which prepares learners for clinical practice. Topics include working within an interdisciplinary team, leadership skills, crisis management and the role of reflection and self-assessment. There is also a neonatal resuscitation component which focuses on assessments and interventions. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
Lab-based learning and classroom theory are blended to provide opportunities for developing knowledge and skills in patient interventions including airway management, ventilator management and other patient care procedures. Background skills and knowledge are expanded to all patient populations with continued emphasis on safe patient care, infection control practices and critical thinking. Pre-requisites:
|
6 |
|
Concepts of pulmonary diagnostic procedures, pulmonary rehabilitation, community care, discharge planning and smoking cessation will be highlighted through a blend of lab and classroom learning. The lab has a large focus on the performance of pulmonary function testing and interacting with patients. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
RT Clinical Practice 4 is the final of four courses in which the learner is increasingly prepared for a supervised clinical experience. Classroom instruction and simulation are used to emphasize an evidence-based approach to patient care, patient-centered care and preceptor and debriefing skills. The course culminates with a case-based exam and evaluative clinical scenario. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
Lab-based learning and classroom theory are blended to further advance knowledge and skills in the management of critically ill and unstable patients. Advanced mechanical ventilation strategies including high-frequency ventilation, advanced airway techniques, difficult airway management and higher level patient care procedures are explored. Pre-requisites:
|
6 |
|
Using individualized learning packages designed to support specific semester five clinical rotations, the learner re-examines previous content and applies it to his/her practice. Each package provides a variety of assessments, tools and resources to assist in the transition of classroom knowledge into clinical proficiency. Pre-requisites:
Corequsites:
|
3 |
|
Practicum Foundations 1 combines on-line and intense on-campus preparation for the first of three practicum placements. Learners will apply foundational skills and theory in clinical simulation and laboratory environments. This course culminates with the creation of individualized learning plans designed to ensure success during practicum. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
In RT Clinical Theory 2, learners use individualized learning packages designed to support specific clinical rotations which helps them re-examine previous content and apply it to their semester six practice. Each package provides a variety of assessments, tools and resources to assist in the transition of classroom knowledge into clinical proficiency. Pre-requisites:
Corequsites:
|
3 |
|
Practicum Foundations 2 combines on-line and intense on-campus preparation for the second of three practicum placements. Focus will be placed upon current trends in respiratory care, pediatric and neonatal care and the refining of foundational skills in clinical simulation and laboratory environments. Attention will also be placed on the modification of individualized learning plans designed to enhance personal practice. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
In RT Clinical Theory 3, learners use individualized learning packages designed to support specific clinical rotations which help them re-examine and apply material covered to-date to their semester seven practice. Each package provides a variety of assessments, tools and resources to assist in the transition of classroom knowledge into clinical practice. Pre-requisites:
Corequsites:
|
3 |
|
Entry to Professional Practice is designed to prepare learners for the national credentialing exam and employment. Exam results are used to refine individualized learning plans to ensure continued success in the field of respiratory therapy. The culmination of this course will involve a major project and a comprehensive exam. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Admission requirements
Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents.
- at least 70% in Math 30-1, or at least 75% in Math 30-2,
- at least 70% in English Language Arts 30-1,
- at least 70% in Chemistry 30,
- at least 70% in Biology 30.
Applicants must also score at least 50% in the School of Health and Public Safety's entrance testing process.
If you intend to work in Alberta after graduation and your first language is not English, you will need to meet the English language requirements of the College of Respiratory Therapists of Alberta (CRTA).
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.
All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English Language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find out what educational documents are accepted and assessment options.
SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.
Academic Upgrading
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English language proficiency
All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
Learn moreAvailable intakes
Fall 2024
Start dates:
- Domestic students: Closed
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Application deadline: Feb. 29, 2024
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- Saskatchewan students:: Open
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Application deadline: May 31, 2024
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Costs
2024/25 tuition and fees
The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.
Domestic students
*You will be ineligible for the UPass during your third year.
Books and supplies are approximately $2,500 per full-time year.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.
Students are responsible for any additional expenses related to their practicum, including pre-practicum requirements outlined by the program and relocation costs to practicum sites outside of Calgary.
Required equipment/tools
The clinical practicum experience includes rotations through adult intensive care, neonatal intensive care, pediatric intensive care, home care, surgical suites, and wards. You will be evaluated on your competency performance during practicum using a tracking system called CompTracker.
You will require a wifi-enabled Apple tablet that can run the most up-to-date operating system to support the CompTracker system. Keyboards are advisable but not mandatory. Smartphones are not acceptable devices for CompTracker.
There is a required $75 user license fee billed each year for the program's first two years, and a $75 fee per semester in the third year.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
You will need your uniform for orientation day, the first day of classes, so order your uniform early. You are expected to wear scrubs for your simulated labs, including the Centre for Advanced Patient Care Simulation and clinical experience.
These scrubs can be purchased at:
Universal Workwear
Bay 11, 2135-32nd Ave NE
Calgary, AB T2E 6Z3
Tel: 403.717.3780
Toll-free: 1.866.442.7303
A stethoscope is part of your uniform and is available at Universal Workwear. Stethoscopes need to be brought to all patient assessment labs and simulation labs.
You'll also be required to purchase Lab Supply Kits in semester one before attending your labs. Purchase these at the SAIT Bookstore (which processes the payment) and then bring your receipt to room NR105 in the Senator Burns building where you will be given the lab kit once proof of purchase is confirmed.
Students outside of Calgary
If students live outside of the Calgary area, they have two options to consider regarding the purchase of their uniform to have it for orientation and the first day of classes.
- Wait until you move to Calgary to order your uniform in person so that you can try on the tops before your name is embroidered and SAIT crest is added. If you choose this option, please allow yourself at least two to three days for Universal Workwear to have it ready for pick-up, as you must wear your uniform to Orientation.
- Find a local scrub provider who carries the MOBB brand of scrubs, and try them on for fit. Then, please place your order by calling Universal Workwear at 1.866.442.7303 (toll-free) so they may have your uniform ready for you once you arrive in Calgary. If you use this option, then please take some time to review the photo of your uniform to know what to look for. The following styles for tops are the only accepted styles:
- Ladies: T3030 or 308T
- Mens: T4010 or 301T
Additional fees
- College of Respiratory Therapists of Alberta (CRTA) annual dues are approximately $425.
- Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists (CSRT) annual dues are approximately $100 for students and $180 for regular members.
- The Canadian Board of Respiratory Care (CBRC) exam fee is approximately $900.
- There is a fee associated with obtaining a police information check, including a Vulnerable Sector Check and it is payable to the Police or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP.)
- You must have your immunizations reviewed by the SAIT Health Clinic. There is a $75 charge to review vaccine history. Any vaccines to be administered will result in additional charges.
- A fee of approximately $50 – $100 is associated with an Electronic Student Permit Checking submission required for clinical practicum placements, payable to Synergy Gateway through the Verified software platform.
2023/24 tuition and fees
The following costs are effective until June 30, 2023.
Domestic students
Financial aid
Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.
Learn moreApplication process
Applicants must meet or exceed a score of 50% in the School of Health and Public Safety entrance testing process as an admission requirement for this program by the set deadlines.
These deadlines may be different than the typical application closing dates.
🚨 Saskatchewan applicants are not required to complete entrance testing for the Fall 2024 intake.
Learn more about the entrance testing process >
Ready to apply?
Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.
Communication during admission
Email is the primary source of communication during the admission process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications.
We recommend you add hps.info@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
Begin your application
Apply now using the online application portal.
Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $150 for international applicants.
Apply nowInformation sessions
Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.
Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:
- What sets SAIT apart
- An introduction to the program and area of study
- Admission requirements
- Future career paths
- Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.
Contact us
School of Health and Public Safety Advising
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Phone - 403.284.8500
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Email - hps.info@sait.ca
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