Fort Smith Adds New Respiratory Therapy Degree Program
A new associate degree program aims to train local clinicians to improve care for residents with respiratory conditions.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Asthma
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The Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board has approved a new associate degree program in respiratory therapy at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. This initiative aims to address a critical health care workforce shortage for residents in the River Valley.
Why it matters
The program addresses a regional shortage of specialized professionals who support patients with respiratory conditions like asthma. By training local clinicians, the university seeks to improve long-term respiratory care access in Fort Smith.
The program launch follows official approval for an Associate of Applied Science degree with a 12-student limit for the first cohort. It remains subject to a required self-study process and a formal accreditation site visit.
The players
University of Arkansas at Fort Smith
A public university serving the River Valley that provides degree programs for health care professionals.
Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board
The state entity responsible for reviewing and approving new academic degree programs at public institutions.
Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
The national accrediting body that establishes quality standards for respiratory therapy educational programs.
The details
Students will undergo a curriculum combining classroom theory, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations with regional health care partners. The program is designed to prepare graduates to manage patients with chronic breathing conditions. Success is contingent on meeting standards set by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.
Timeline
September 18, 2026: University trustees reviewed program costs and projected graduate salaries.
October 23, 2026: The state board officially approved the respiratory therapy program.
January 2027: The university expects to complete its required program self-study.
Spring 2027: An accreditation site visit is anticipated.
Fall 2027: The university plans to welcome the first student cohort.
Health Landscape
The program launch follows established Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care standards to meet local medical workforce needs. This development reflects a broader effort to stabilize the pipeline of specialized care for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.
This program aims to increase the local number of respiratory therapists available to support those managing conditions like asthma. If you have concerns about your respiratory care access, discuss your ongoing maintenance plan with your primary physician.
The takeaway
Training local specialists is a key strategy for ensuring consistent care for those with chronic breathing issues. If you or a loved one manage asthma, continue to consult your doctor to ensure your treatment plan remains effective as new regional resources become available.
Further reading
Learn more about the importance of specialized respiratory care for local patients in our Asthma section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rivervalleydemocratgazette.
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