Snow College approved to launch respiratory therapy program
Snow College has received official approval from both the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) to launch a new Respiratory Therapy program, marking a significant expansion of the College’s healthcare education offerings.
EPHRAIM — Snow College has received official approval to launch a new respiratory therapy program, expanding its healthcare education offerings and addressing growing workforce needs across central Utah.
The program was approved by both the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, clearing the way for the college to begin enrolling students.
Respiratory therapists are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings and are considered a critical part of modern healthcare teams.
“This approval represents an important milestone for Snow College and for the communities we serve,” said Snow College Provost Michael Austin. “Respiratory therapists are in high demand across Utah and the nation, and this program will help meet that need while providing students with a clear pathway to a meaningful, well-paying healthcare career.”
College officials said the program was developed in response to strong regional and national workforce demand and was created in collaboration with healthcare partners throughout central Utah. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for national credentialing exams, which are required for professional licensure and employment.
Accreditation by CoARC confirms the program meets national standards for respiratory care education, while approval from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities ensures the program aligns with institutional and academic quality requirements.
Snow College President Stacee Yardley McIff said the addition of the program strengthens both student opportunity and rural healthcare systems.
“By adding respiratory therapy to our healthcare programs, Snow College continues its commitment to providing high-quality, workforce-aligned education that strengthens rural and regional health care systems,” McIff said.
The respiratory therapy program is now accepting students for the spring 2026 semester. Information on admissions requirements, prerequisites, and application deadlines is available on the Snow College website.
Founded in 1888, Snow College is a two-year institution with campuses in Ephraim and Richfield, along with a learning center in Nephi. The college serves more than 5,000 students and emphasizes affordable, accessible education designed to prepare students for successful careers or further academic study.
