Lutana Haan, assistant dean for the College of Health Sciences, chair and associate professor for the Department of Respiratory Care was recently quoted in the article “Career Pathways Move Respiratory Therapists (RTs) Forward Through Degree Advancement” published by the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC). The AARC is a non-profit professional association for respiratory care and allied health professionals interested in cardiopulmonary care.
The article outlines the importance of the AARC Career Pathways Committee which works to fill the gap of knowledge in understanding how RTs can expand their career after receiving an undergraduate degree with the appropriate degree completion programs. They additionally strive to keep students competitive and focused on furthering their education. In doing so, the article further defines the gap most RTs experience is understanding which completion programs can further their career.
Through this exploration, quotes from Haan and Ellen Becker, AARC Career Pathways Chair, help identify the gap of knowledge students lack by identifying the purpose of certain programs. “There are multiple paths to being able to sit for the NBRC, RRT credentialing exam,” said Haan. “I believe students have very little understanding of the difference between the various types of associate degrees.”
The article then outlines degree paths for students, “What’s the difference between A.S. and A.A.S.,” asked Becker. “The associate of science (A.S.) degree program prepares students for transfer to a four-year institution, while an associate of applied science (A.A.S.) degree program is a career program preparing students for employment.”
“Students need to be aware, as well as programs, what this means to graduates seeking a bachelor’s or master’s degree,” says Haan. “Forming strong partnerships with baccalaureate programs is critical to set up graduates for a smoother path,” said Becker. The remainder of the article explains ways educators of undergraduate RTs can help shape a career path for their students and fill the gap of knowledge within their classrooms.
To learn more, read the full article here:
“Career Pathways Move Respiratory Therapists (RTs) Forward Through Degree Advancement”