| An online survey of deans and program directors in 2- and non-2-year institutions in March 2008 explored their attitudes toward "degree creep" in Respiratory Therapy education. Persons surveyed were from accredited programs and are members of ASAHP and NN2. There was a modest response rate of 48.6% (158/325) from program directors and 33.3% (23/69) from deans. A significantly greater proportion of those at 2-year (85%) than non-2-year institutions (29%) supported maintenance of the current associate's degree. Both deans (51.8%) and program directors (71.4%), however, supported moving to the baccalaureate degree within 10 years, and would be likely to move if mandated to do so by CoARC. Institution level (2- vs. non-2-year) was the only independent predictor of support toward degree change to the baccalaureate level, when position, gender, age, highest degree earned, and years in RT education were included in the regression equation (<.001). There was some support for movement to the Master's level, but no support for an entry-level doctorate. Most (70%) provided qualitative responses emphasizing the pros and cons of moving to the baccalaureate level and steps for changing the degree status. Data from this study can serve deans and directors in planning the future of Respiratory Therapy education. |
