To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
Major GPA | C |
Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
Additional Admission Requirements | Required |
Some online/blended coursework | Required |
AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
Purpose Statement
The online B.S. Health Sciences Respiratory Care program provides an innovative "upside-down 2+2" curriculum that prepares students to advance their careers in health-related fields. These programs are specifically designed for students who have completed their associate’s degree in an allied health discipline from a regionally-accredited program and who have successfully obtained the related professional license. Our programs provide students with foundational knowledge of health promotion, disease promotion concepts, and understanding of the interconnectedness of personal, family, organizational, community, and societal health. Our students will use this knowledge to work collaboratively to provide comprehensive patient-centered care. While completing this degree, students will expand their critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making skills and enhance their ability to communicate effectively with others in order to provide excellent care for their patients. We specialize in preparing students in enhancing their careers with an understanding of the importance of leadership and interprofessional teamwork among health professionals, as well as skills to sustain personal health and well-being.
Student Learning Outcomes
Program Outcome 1: Graduates will demonstrate foundational knowledge of health promotion and disease prevention concepts.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
Additionally, a 2.5 or higher cumulative GPA in your associate degree is required for admission to this degree plan.
Northern Arizona University will accept up to 90 units of transfer credit toward the completion of this degree.
Take the following 30 units with a Grade of "C" or better in each course:
Health sciences courses (30 units)
In addition, complete the Respiratory Care requirements from a nationally accredited program at a regionally accredited community college or university. This block includes courses that meet the requirements for graduation and for national certification or licensure in the discipline.
Note: Prior to beginning the HS 460C capstone course, students must have completed their Associate's degree and hold a current certificate or licensure in Respiratory Care. The student is also required to have a current cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher to be eligible to enroll in HS 460C.
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Note: Prior to beginning the HS 460C capstone course, students must have completed their Associate's degree and hold a current certificate or licensure in Allied Health. The student is also required to have a current cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher to be eligible to enroll in HS 460C.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.