REGINA – Saskatchewan Polytechnic is introducing a new program with 20 seats opening in October 2025 for a fall 2026 start.
This intensive three-year program will address an identified need for respiratory therapists in Saskatchewan. The program, to be offered at Sask Polytech Regina campus, will teach students to diagnose, treat and manage cardio-respiratory patients.
The Government of Saskatchewan announced the new Respiratory Therapy program in the 2025-26 budget on March 19. This new program builds on previous investments to expand seats to health sciences and nursing programs in the province. Increasing training seats is crucial to addressing Saskatchewan's healthcare needs.
“The new respiratory therapy program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic will help build a stronger, more robust health care workforce in Saskatchewan and support Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan, Labour Market Strategy and Health Human Resources Action Plan,” said Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff. “Saskatchewan’s 2025-26 Budget is providing over $3 million to develop this program. It will be the first respiratory therapy program in the province, allowing more Saskatchewan students to train and build rewarding careers close to home.”
“We are excited to offer Saskatchewan’s only Respiratory Therapy program,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO. “These graduates will be important members of inter-professional teams that are vital to meet the needs of Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. They will evaluate, treat and care for individuals with respiratory issues, ranging from premature babies to older adults. Thank you to the Government of Saskatchewan for supporting this program.”
The Respiratory Therapy program at Sask Polytech will blend theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare students for careers in respiratory therapy. It will feature hands-on learning in simulation centres and clinical placements in various healthcare settings, including intensive care units, emergency departments and diagnostic labs. Simulation centres prepare health care learners for clinical practice by building their competence and confidence through participation in realistic experiences. Respiratory Therapy graduates will find employment in diagnostic laboratories, community care, education and research as well as hospital emergency rooms and critical care units.
Enrolment for the Respiratory Therapy program will open in October 2025 for a Fall 2026 start. Registration is currently not available. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit for more information.
— Submitted by Sask. Polytech Media Relations
