Respiratory Care (Dual-Degree)

Obtain your bachelor's degree and Master of Science in Respiratory Care degree in just five years. A partnership between WLC and Rush University provides you an opportunity to enter the workforce and earn income earlier than typical!

You'll complete three years of coursework at WLC - or, if you prefer, the traditional four years - then transition to Rush University for your last two years. You'll obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in either Biology or Sport and Exercise Science from WLC and a Master of Science degree in Respiratory Care from Rush University.

This accelerated program outlines a clear pathway for direct admission to Rush University.

The Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program at Rush University (Chicago, IL)

The Master of Science in Respiratory Care program has a uniquely designed curriculum that offers outstanding leadership and advanced practice preparation in multiple areas, including critical care, neonatal care, and cardiopulmonary diagnostics.

You will obtain hands-on experience at top-tier academic medical centers in Chicago. The low student-to-faculty ratio ensures that you will receive individualized attention. At Rush, you will experience the innovative practitioner-teacher model, whereby faculty members take on multiple roles as educators, researchers, and practitioners.

The Critical Importance of Respiratory Therapists

According to our partner, Rush University, respiratory therapists are critical members of the health care team who apply scientific principles to prevent, identify and treat acute or chronic dysfunction of the cardiopulmonary system in a diverse patient population, from newborns and children to adults and the elderly.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports much faster than average projected job growth of 14% from 2021-2031.

Due to the increasing complexity and the rapid rate of growth in the profession, the American Association for Respiratory Care has recently called for a bachelor’s degree as the entry credential; however advanced training at the master’s level benefits respiratory therapists through better training, more rapid promotion, and leadership opportunities. A master’s degree also opens the door to program director, managerial, education, quality and outcomes and research coordination careers in the respiratory care field.