The Bachelor of Applied Science in Cardiopulmonary Sciences is a program designed for cardiovascular technologists and respiratory care professionals who want to advance their education. Applicants should hold one of the following credentials: Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board for Respiratory Care or Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) from Cardiovascular Credentialing International. On this foundation of skill, the proposed program will result in additional growth for professionals within the specialized area of Cardiopulmonary Sciences.
The program will provide cardiopulmonary professionals with a well-rounded general education in the arts and sciences as well as an advanced understanding in the Cardiopulmonary Sciences. The Cardiopulmonary Sciences BAS provides career advancement for entry-level health profession practitioners. Students will develop management and leadership skills and gain a broader-based knowledge of healthcare delivery skills. The program offers a diverse population of students with innovative educational experiences and opportunities to meet the healthcare needs of the community they serve. The program provides a career and educational pathway for cardiovascular technologists and respiratory care professionals who have earned an Associate of Science degree in a related area or who hold comparable certification and licensure to treat patients.
Program Highlights:
The BAS in Cardiopulmonary Sciences program includes courses in professional issues, advanced pharmacology, diagnosis and intervention, patient management, research, legal and ethical aspects of healthcare, pathophysiology, leadership, and community health. Courses are offered in a blend of online and traditional formats to accommodate students’ various schedules and learning preferences. Students may select from an array of electives to complement their learning. Courses are offered for full-time and part-time students. The program also provides an excellent basis for continued formal education at the graduate level in the medical, public health, and education disciplines.
Career Opportunities:
Cardiopulmonary professionals will be able to further promote the expansion of services in their communities, such as diagnosis and treatment of cardiopulmonary and sleep disorders, health promotion and disease prevention, patient education, pulmonary rehabilitation, disease-specific case management, and life support outside of the intensive care unit. Changes in health care policy, regulation, and reimbursements have required professionals to adopt these expanded roles, work more independently in settings across the continuum of care, and collaborate as partners on the healthcare delivery team.
Admission Requirements:
- Applicants must apply for admission and be accepted to Edison State College. Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities must be sent directly to the Office of the Registrar.
- Applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Applicants must possess licensure, certification, or registration from the profession in which the applicant is practicing. Applicants should hold one of the following credentials: Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board for Respiratory Care or Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) from Cardiovascular Credentialing International OR Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.
- Applicants must have earned either:
- An Associate in Science (AS) degree in Cardiovascular Technology or Respiratory Care from any college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association as defined by State Board of Education rule, with a minimum of 60 credit hours earned.
- OR
- Students with a minimum of 60 credit hours, with all general education and prerequisites met, may apply for admission. Students must possess licensure, certification, or registration from the profession in which the applicant is practicing as noted above.
- Students are encouraged to apply for admission during the term in with they will complete their Associate degree program/receive their required licensure.
Requirements to Enroll in Upper Division Courses:
1. Upon admission to the BAS program, students must attend a mandatory orientation session prior to enrollment in baccalaureate courses.
2. Applicants must complete ENC 1101 Composition I, ENC 1102 Composition II, and one college-level mathematics course with grades of “C” or higher prior to enrollment in any upper division program courses.
3. Cross-enrollment approval: Baccalaureate degree seeking students must obtain prior approval to cross enroll (as a transient student) in courses intended to fulfill upper division program requirements. Approval will be determined by the appropriate dean in collaboration with program faculty. Students initiate this process using www.facts.org.
4. Students who have not fulfilled the Edison State College general education requirements must complete them. Students are permitted to complete remaining general education courses while enrolled in the BAS program. Students who transfer to Edison State College with a previous Associate in Arts degree from a Florida community college or bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution are considered to have met the General Education component of the degree.
Priority Application Deadlines:
Fall term - August 1; Spring term - December 1; Summer term - April 1
Total Credit Hours Required: 120