Respiratory Therapists (RTs) comprise a unique paramedical profession. Working as vital members of the health care team, RTs provide a wide variety of therapeutic patient care, diagnostic, technical, educational, research, administrative and medical sales services.
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) - Respiratory Therapy
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops is B.C.’s one and only educational program for Respiratory Therapists. Their program is considered one of the best in Canada; TRU graduates consistently rank in the top 30% on the national certification exam every year. The program at TRU is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Respiratory Therapy Education (CoARTE).
At TRU, although all students are admitted into the RT diploma program, there are two completion options. A 3 year Diploma stream, or a 4 year dual Diploma/Degree stream that allows successful students to graduate with both a 3 year RT diploma and a 4 year Bachelor of Health Science Degree within a four year period.
For students who have already completed Bachelor of Science degree, TRU also offers an intensive 2 year Fast Track stream allowing students to enter directly into the second year of the program.
For more information:
TRU Respiratory Therapy
Fast Track Option - TRU
Becoming a Registered Respiratory Therapist in BC
The Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapy is the certifying body for RRTs in BC and is the national professional association for respiratory therapists in Canada. Upon successful completion of an accredited RT program, students write the CSRT National Certification Examination and register as members of the CSRT.
For more information:
Canadian Board for Respiratory Care
CSRT - Obtaining RRT Credential
Further Education for Respiratory Therapists
Anaesthesia Assistant (RN or Respiratory Therapists)
Asthma Educators’ Certificate
Respiratory Educators’ Certificate
COPD Educator
Medical Laboratory Assistant • Polysomnography
Please refer to our links page for further information about programs across Canada.
