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About the program

Neonatal care is a crucial component of the health care system, and respiratory therapists are core members of the interprofessional neonatal care team. NICU competencies are a part of the National Competency Framework for Respiratory Therapy, but it is widely recognized that additional education is needed for the RRT entering the NICU environment. The Respiratory Therapy - Neonatal Care program is intended to augment training of active Respiratory Therapists, thus reducing the cost of bringing new hires onto the NICU to the required levels of performance and contributing to improved patient care. The program is aimed at Registered Respiratory Therapists who wish to best prepare themselves for practice in a neonatal intensive care environment. The program builds on the knowledge and skill gained during the pre-registration respiratory therapy program through a combination of on-line theory, skills acquisition and clinically immersive simulation.

Program information

All courses must be completed within 2 years of acceptance into the program.
Students must register into the program before they can sign up for individual courses via the student portal. The Admissions Officer will verify that they show proof that they are graduates of an accredited Canadian respiratory therapy program, certified and in good standing with the regulatory college applicable to their home jurisdiction.

Admission requirements

Students must be graduates of an accredited Canadian respiratory therapy program, certified and in good standing with the regulatory college applicable to their home jurisdiction.

Admission procedures

Application will be made through the Conestoga Admission Office. Upon receipt of the application and supporting documentation a turnaround document will be generated and assessed by the program. Admission will be based on verification of the above requirements.

Graduate opportunities

Graduates will be well positioned to work as Registered Respiratory Therapists in neonatal units

For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home

Program outcomes

  • Apply Respiratory Therapy Standards of Practice ensuring a professional manner is maintained at all times and promoting a family-centered approach to neonatal care.
  • Develop an evidence informed approach to practice and a commitment to life-long learning.
  • Communicate and collaborate effectively with families, colleagues and members of the interprofessional health care team.
  • Conduct complete neonatal patient assessments including health history taking, physical assessment and diagnostic modalities.
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate treatment / therapeutic interventions to optimize neonatal patient's health outcomes using specialized approaches and techniques.

Program related resources

Program contact

Continuing Education
Upcoming registrations

Mark your calendar with our registration dates, so you can plan your future.

Winter registration: Opened November 4, 2024
Spring registration: Opens March 17, 2025