<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><item href="/newsroom-and-marketing/ccac-newsroom/2022/0223-ccac-and-upmc-establish-respiratory-therapy-program-partnership-to-help-fill-therapist-shortage.php" dsn="blogs"><featured/><pubDate>02/23/2022</pubDate><title>CCAC and UPMC Establish Respiratory Therapy Program Partnership To Help Fill Therapist Shortage</title><subtitle>UPMC Will Pay Half the Tuition and Offer Guaranteed Positions to Graduates</subtitle><description>The Community College of Allegheny County's Respiratory Therapy Associate of Science Degree program is teaming up with UPMC in a commitment to bring more skilled respiratory therapists to the region. Participants will have an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while receiving tuition assistance of $6,000, as well as paid work opportunities while completing the program and a guaranteed job at UPMC upon successful completion. UPMC is also currently offering a generous sign-on bonus. Classes begin May 23, and participants can complete their degree in 18 months.</description><author>CCAC Public Relations</author><image><img src="/_resources/images/blogs/comp-md-12-07-21-ccac-respiratory-therapy.jpg" alt="CCAC Respiratory Therapy students in lab"/></image><useImage>true</useImage><tags><tag>Partnerships</tag></tags></item>