Application Deadline Extended
The application deadline for the Master of Science in Respiratory Program has been extended to June 1, 2026. Transcripts should be submitted by June 15, 2026. The department will work with applicants individually to schedule the professional observation and complete the professional observation form.
Overview
The Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program has the following requirements for consideration for admission to the program:
- Meets all admission requirements general to the UAMS College of Health Professions
- A bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited post-secondary academic institution (or equivalent foreign degree as evaluated by Education Credential Evaluators or World Education Services)
- Successful completion of specific coursework
- Professional observation (arranged upon application)
- Meets specific technical standards
The Master of Science in Respiratory Care program is unable to accept applications from international students with F-1 visas.
Admission Factors
Criteria
Admission to the Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program is competitive and based on the following criteria:
- Academic achievement
- Academic aptitude
- Academic experience
- Math and science aptitude
Special Considerations
During admission reviews, first consideration may be given to Arkansas residents. Highly qualified applicants from out-of-state are strongly encouraged to apply and may successfully compete for admission.
Non-Discrimination Policy
Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or disability status as a criterion in deciding against any individual in matters of admission, placement, transfer, hiring, dismissal, compensation, fringe benefits, training, tuition assistance and other personnel or educationally-related actions.
Previous Degree Requirement
A bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited university (or equivalent foreign degree as evaluated by Education Credential Evaluators or World Education Services) is required to apply to the Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program.
The program has no required, or preferred, undergraduate major. UAMS recognizes that the study and practice of respiratory therapy are enriched by the presence of students from a variety of academic backgrounds. However, a demonstrated amount of academic rigor is required to ensure that applicants can succeed with the scholastic demands of the program’s curriculum.
Required Coursework
The following 26 credits are required for admission to the Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program.
All listed courses are required from an institutionally accredited post-secondary academic institution and must fulfill all college requirements regarding acceptance of transfer credit.
Fulfillment of the prerequisite courses for the Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program does not guarantee admission.
A final grade of C or better is required in each of the prerequisite courses.
Actual course titles may vary among institutions. If in doubt about the suitability of the following prerequisite courses, please contact the College of Health Professions Admissions Office.
| Typical Course Title | Area | Required Semester Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II with Labs1 | Science | 8 |
| Microbiology with Lab1 | Science | 4 |
| Chemistry with Lab1 | Science | 4 |
| College Algebra (or higher) | Mathematics | 3 |
| Statistics | Mathematics | 3 |
| Speech Communication | English and Communication | 3 |
| Medical Terminology2 | Allied Health | 1 |
| Total | 26 |
1 Science courses must be suitable for science or health professions majors and include a laboratory.
2 A course substitution with demonstration of competency may be approved for medical terminology with consent of the program director.
Credit by Examination
The Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program will not accept Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or College Level Examination Program credits to fulfill the required math and science coursework.
The program will accept AP, IB or CLEP credits awarded by other institutionally accredited post-secondary academic institutions to fulfill the general education coursework. To be considered for credit transfer, the official transcript from the awarding institution must reflect the AP, IB or CLEP credits.
Refer to the UAMS College of Health Professions Future Students website for details about credit by examination.
Professional Observation
Documentation of observation of and discussion with a practicing professional in the field is required. More information will be sent via email upon receipt of the online application
Technical Standards
In order to be admitted to the Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program, applicants must possess certain physical, cognitive, and behavioral abilities necessary to complete the curriculum. These requirements exist to ensure that students are able to effectively acquire the knowledge and skills needed to become competent and successful dental hygienists. Please visit the Technical Standards page for details.