Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Respiratory therapy programs make it easier than ever to enter the medical field. We ranked the best programs based on academics, cost, and reputation.
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Updated September 20, 2023

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Respiratory therapists assist patients with breathing issues, such as asthma, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). An aging population will lead to more of these conditions — and a greater demand for respiratory specialists.

Respiratory therapy requires an associate degree, making it one of the quickest paths among healthcare degrees and careers. In this guide, we introduce the best respiratory therapy programs and outline some considerations to keep in mind when entering this profession.

Why Enroll in a Respiratory Therapy Program?

  • As a respiratory therapist, you can help improve patients' quality of life.
  • Graduates of respiratory therapy programs can start working in the medical field after just two years of schooling.
  • Respiratory therapy is a great way to get started in healthcare, providing you with basic medical knowledge and an understanding of how healthcare facilities work.
  • Respiratory therapists earn about $15,000 more than the median salary for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Did You Know?



Top 20 Respiratory Therapy Programs

Read About Our Methodology Here

#1 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Sinclair Community College

  • Dayton, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Dayton, Ohio, Sinclair Community College provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. Learners seeking robust study in the respiratory therapy field will benefit from the college's associate of applied science in respiratory care. Degree-seekers benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. They can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.

The program features dual enrollment formats. Degree candidates can learn in person or remotely. Of all its programs, 14% are online. All students can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.

Sinclair Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 280

Number of Online Programs: 39

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 21%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 71%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,914

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 23%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,300

Average Price After Aid: $4,431

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,409
Out-of-state
$6,676
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
18,794
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Central New Mexico Community College

  • Albuquerque, NM
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Central New Mexico Community College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. Students seeking robust study in the respiratory therapy field will benefit from the college's associate of applied science in respiratory care. Degree candidates seeking supplementary study can benefit from faculty-driven research projects and other collaborative learning opportunities.

The respiratory therapy program accommodates both in-person and remote study. Of all its programs, 14% are online. Whether in-person or online, degree-seekers can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Central New Mexico Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 201

Number of Online Programs: 28

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 29%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 83%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,864

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 6%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $3,309

Average Price After Aid: $4,424

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,344
Out-of-state
$7,104
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
23,096
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Florida State College at Jacksonville

  • Jacksonville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution, Florida State College at Jacksonville offers an associate of science in respiratory care. Students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Degree-seekers can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.

Respiratory care enrollees can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. At the college, 22% of all programs accommodate remote learning. Both in-person and online students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.

Florida State College at Jacksonville at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 166

Number of Online Programs: 36

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 37%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 71%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,084

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 21%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,414

Average Price After Aid: $3,017

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,095
Out-of-state
$7,947
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
24,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Ivy Tech Community College

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, Ivy Tech Community College provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. Learners looking to advance in the respiratory therapy field should consider the college's associate of science in respiratory therapy. Degree-seekers complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.

Students in the respiratory therapy program benefit from dual enrollment formats. They can learn in person or remotely. The institution notes that 21% of its programs enable online study. Degree candidates can access academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.

Ivy Tech Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 280

Number of Online Programs: 58

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 25%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 72%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,980

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 18%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,053

Average Price After Aid: $6,556

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,350
Out-of-state
$8,511
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
53%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
72,689
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Forsyth Technical Community College

  • Winston-Salem, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution, Forsyth Technical Community College operates a main campus in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The school's associate in respiratory therapy program equips students with a well-rounded education through its rigorous curriculum. While completing coursework, students can also pursue experiential learning opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.

Learners from all walks of life benefit from the respiratory therapy program's flexible format. The institution notes that 14% of its programs enable online study. Enrollees can access academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.

Forsyth Technical Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 132

Number of Online Programs: 19

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 21%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 72%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,426

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 75%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,304

Average Price After Aid: $3,326

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,824
Out-of-state
$6,432
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,695
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Miami Dade College

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Miami Dade College reaches learners worldwide through its flexible academic programs, available in person and online. The associate of science in respiratory care prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. Degree candidates seeking supplementary study can benefit from faculty-driven research projects and other collaborative learning opportunities.

With the college supporting in-person and online study, learners can pursue their studies at their own pace. At the college, 17% of all programs accommodate remote learning. Degree-seekers can access academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.

Miami Dade College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 147

Number of Online Programs: 25

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 33%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 84%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,129

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 6%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,008

Average Price After Aid: $4,947

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,987
Out-of-state
$7,947
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
51,679
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Delta College

  • University Center, MI
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Delta College, a public institution in University Center, Michigan, offers programs that equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge. The college boasts a 16-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration through faculty-driven research projects and more.

Students pursuing the associate of applied science in respiratory care benefit from flexible study, with the option to pursue in-person or online learning. Degree-seekers can enroll full time or part time. When considering remote study, learners should know that 17% of the college's programs support online learning. Students can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their studies.

Delta College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 142

Number of Online Programs: 24

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 15%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 77%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,236

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 16%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,236

Average Price After Aid: $3,866

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,910
Out-of-state
$11,130
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,819
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Clark State Community College

  • Springfield, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution, Clark State Community College operates a main campus in Springfield, Ohio. The college's associate in respiratory care provides students with transferrable skills and knowledge necessary for the field. With a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study. Degree-seekers can participate in collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.

The program accommodates both in-person and remote study. Enrollees benefit from academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.

Clark State Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 85

Number of Online Programs: 21

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 15%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 88%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,360

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 34%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,325

Average Price After Aid: $6,414

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,176
Out-of-state
$6,352
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,669
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Erie Community College

  • Buffalo, NY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Erie Community College supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Buffalo, New York. The college's associate in respiratory care provides students with transferrable skills and knowledge necessary for the respiratory therapy field. Learners benefit from a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, with many chances to interact closely with professors.

Degree-seekers can complete coursework on campus or pursue remote learning. At the college, 2% of all programs accommodate remote learning. Students can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources.

Erie Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 91

Number of Online Programs: 2

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 25%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 82%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,726

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 26%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,341

Average Price After Aid: $4,733

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,900
Out-of-state
$9,466
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
56%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,031
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Indian River State College

  • Fort Pierce, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Indian River State College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. The school supports programs that equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their field of choice. Learners seeking supplementary study can benefit from faculty-driven research projects and other collaborative learning opportunities.

Learners from all walks of life benefit from the associate in respiratory care. When considering remote study, students should know that 10% of the college's programs support online learning. Enrollees benefit from academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.

Indian River State College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 141

Number of Online Programs: 14

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 41%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 67%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,523

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 6%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,415

Average Price After Aid: $984

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,496
Out-of-state
$9,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
16,942
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Palm Beach State College

  • Lake Worth, FL
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Palm Beach State College supports numerous programs from its main campus in Lake Worth, Florida. The college's associate in respiratory care equips learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. While completing coursework, students can also pursue experiential learning opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.

With the college supporting in-person and online study, degree candidates can pursue their studies at their own pace. Career services and academic advising are just two of the many campus resources available to learners.

Palm Beach State College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 124

Number of Online Programs: Data not available

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 37%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 74%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,512

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 8%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,405

Average Price After Aid: $2,833

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,424
Out-of-state
$8,712
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
31,289
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Pitt Community College

  • Winterville, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Pitt Community College supports numerous programs from its main campus in Winterville, North Carolina. Enrollees hoping to advance in a respiratory therapy-adjacent career will benefit from the college's associate in respiratory therapy. The college boasts a 20-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration. Learners complete faculty-driven research projects and more.

Degree-seekers from all walks of life benefit from the respiratory therapy program's flexible format. When considering remote study, students should know that 28% of the college's programs support online learning. Whether in-person or online, enrollees can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance.

Pitt Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 104

Number of Online Programs: 29

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 28%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,384

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 30%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $3,412

Average Price After Aid: $5,304

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,824
Out-of-state
$6,432
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,237
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Gulf Coast State College

  • Panama City, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Gulf Coast State College, a public college based in Panama City, Florida, provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. Students seeking flexible study in respiratory therapy will benefit from the college's associate in respiratory care. While completing coursework, students can also pursue experiential learning opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.

Respiratory care students benefit from flexible study, with the option to pursue in-person or online learning. Degree-seekers can enroll full time or part time. Leading in online education, the college supports nine online degrees. Students seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.

Gulf Coast State College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 87

Number of Online Programs: 9

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 41%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 72%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,005

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 8%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,395

Average Price After Aid: $3,496

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,750
Out-of-state
$7,064
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,797
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Hutchinson Community College

  • Hutchinson, KS
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Hutchinson Community College, a public college based in Hutchinson, Kansas, provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. The college's associate in respiratory care program provides students interested in a respiratory therapy career with a world-class education. Students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Degree candidates can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.

Learners from all walks of life benefit from the program's flexible format. Students seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.

Hutchinson Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 77

Number of Online Programs: 18

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 42%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,395

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 15%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,403

Average Price After Aid: $8,168

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,730
Out-of-state
$3,660
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,315
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Henry Ford College

  • Dearborn, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Henry Ford College supports numerous degrees, both in person and online, from its main campus in Dearborn, Michigan. The college's associate of applied science in respiratory therapy equips students with industry-relevant knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a respiratory therapy career. Learners seeking supplementary study can benefit from faculty-driven research projects and other collaborative learning opportunities.

Enrollees from all walks of life benefit from the respiratory therapy program's flexible format. Online programs make up 6% of the college's programs. In-person and remote students can access campus resources, including career services and academic advising.

Henry Ford College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 161

Number of Online Programs: 10

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 9%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 83%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,983

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 22%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,436

Average Price After Aid: $2,891

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,248
Out-of-state
$6,168
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
12,146
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Muskegon Community College

  • Muskegon, MI
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Muskegon Community College is a Muskegon, Michigan-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The school supports programs that equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their field of choice. Students pursuing the associate of applied science in respiratory therapy complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.

Respiratory therapy enrollees can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. To date, 3% of the college's programs enable online study. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.

Muskegon Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 72

Number of Online Programs: 2

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 19%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 85%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,434

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 10%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,076

Average Price After Aid: $4,477

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,720
Out-of-state
$12,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,999
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Coastal Pines Technical College

  • Waycross, GA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Coastal Pines Technical College supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Waycross, Georgia. The school's associate in respiratory care program builds theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing candidates for many career paths in the field. Students can collaborate with faculty members on research projects and other endeavors.

Enrollees can complete the respiratory therapy person in person or remotely. Of its programs, 18% allow for fully online study. In-person and remote students can access campus resources, including career services and academic advising.

Coastal Pines Technical College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 120

Number of Online Programs: 21

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 40%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 90%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,783

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: Data not available

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: Data not available

Average Price After Aid: $2,066

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,147
Out-of-state
$4,294
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,498
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

San Juan College

  • Farmington, NM
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Farmington, New Mexico, San Juan College offers a variety of academic programs in person and online. The school supports programs that equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their field of choice. In the associate in respiratory therapy program, learners benefit from rigorous coursework and opportunities to collaborate with faculty.

Respiratory therapy students benefit from flexible study, with the option to pursue in person or online learning. Degree candidates can enroll full time or part time. Of its programs, 8% allow for fully online study. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.

San Juan College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 122

Number of Online Programs: 10

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 24%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 85%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,138

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 7%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,479

Average Price After Aid: $7,075

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,176
Out-of-state
$3,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,741
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Broward College

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in higher education, Broward College provides educational opportunities to Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based students and distance learners. The associate of science in respiratory care prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. The college boasts a 31-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration.

Depending on their needs, students can complete the respiratory therapy program in person or online. The college reports that 5% of its programs sustain online study. Whether in person or online, students can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Broward College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 132

Number of Online Programs: 6

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 31%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 73%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,945

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 11%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,077

Average Price After Aid: $12,451

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,968
Out-of-state
$1,968
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,976
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Best Respiratory Therapy Programs

Mott Community College

  • Flint, MI
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Mott Community College is a public college located in Flint, Michigan. Its programs, such as the associate of applied science in respiratory therapy, foster learning through a robust program curriculum and supportive learning community. Degree-seekers benefit from the program's collaborative nature. Enrollees can pursue research projects and other learning opportunities.

The program features a flexible format. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.

Mott Community College at a Glance:

Total Academic Programs: 120

Number of Online Programs: 5

Admission Rate: Data not available

Graduation Rate: 15%

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 88%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,463

Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 31%

Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,210

Average Price After Aid: $5,652

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,402
Out-of-state
$6,274
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,564
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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How Does Accreditation Work for Respiratory Therapy Programs?

Accreditation does much of the school and program vetting process for you. Accredited institutions meet a high standard of academic quality, making your college selection process a little easier.

When you choose an accredited program, you know you'll have access to federal financial aid. Graduate schools and potential employers will recognize your degree as well.

In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure to look for programmatic accreditation of any respiratory therapy programs you're considering.

You must graduate from a respiratory therapy program that's been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) in order to qualify for NBRC's professional credentialing exams. Most states require NBRC credentials for licensing and employment as a respiratory therapist.

What Courses Do You Take in a Respiratory Therapy Program?

Respiratory therapy programs let you hone your critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills.

In this program, you'll learn how to give oxygen, operate mechanical ventilators, and measure lung function. You'll also study math so you can perform key tasks, such as measuring patients' medications.

Here are some common courses in associate respiratory therapy programs:

  • Cardiorespiratory diseases
  • General respiratory care
  • Integrative systems physiology
  • Introduction to mechanical ventilation
  • Life support
  • Medical ethics

How Much Do Respiratory Therapy Programs Cost?

Respiratory therapy programs cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars in tuition and fees per year.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, public two-year colleges cost an average of $3,900 in tuition and fees, whereas private nonprofit two-year colleges cost around $18,000 in 2020-2021.

You can reduce your education costs in several ways. You should submit the FAFSA and apply for other forms of financial aid, including scholarships and private loans.

If you wish to save as much money as possible, choose a local program so you can qualify for in-state or in-district tuition rates.

How Much Can You Make With a Respiratory Therapy Degree?

According to the BLS, respiratory therapists earned a median annual salary of $61,830 in 2021.

Many factors can influence how much you earn as a respiratory therapist, including your state, your employer, and how much experience you have.

In California, for example, respiratory therapists earned an average of $92,660 in 2021. In Mississippi, however, they earned just $52,060.

The BLS projects a 14% job growth for respiratory therapists between 2021 and 2031. That's an addition of more than 18,000 jobs!

Do You Need Licensure to Become a Respiratory Therapist?

According to the American Association for Respiratory Care, all U.S. states except Alaska require respiratory therapists to have a license.

Exact licensure requirements vary by state, but you'll generally need a respiratory therapy degree from an accredited program and an NBRC respiratory therapy credential.

NBRC offers two credentials: certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and registered respiratory therapist (RRT). For either credential, you must be at least 18 years old and pass the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination.

A low score can get you the CRT credential, whereas a high score can get you the CRT credential and qualify you for the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE). If you pass the TMC and the CSE, you'll get the RRT credential.

Both exams feature questions on patient data, control of devices and infection control, and interventions. The TMC costs $190, while the CSE costs $200. State licensure fees fall between $30 and $340.

Frequently Asked Questions About Respiratory Therapy Programs

How long does it take to become a respiratory therapist?

It typically takes about two years to complete a respiratory therapy program. The time it takes to pass licensure exams varies, but you can usually finish the licensure process in just a few weeks.

What is the highest degree for respiratory therapy?

While most respiratory therapist jobs only require an associate degree, you can earn up to a doctorate in this field. Some employers require or strongly prefer respiratory therapists to hold a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy.

You can also get a master's in respiratory therapy or a doctoral degree in a related area, such as respiratory medicine.

Is studying respiratory therapy hard?

As with many healthcare fields, respiratory therapy programs can be challenging. These programs cover an array of critical health and science topics, including anatomy and advanced diagnostics. You must understand care principles and master various technical skills.

Clinical elements may prove tricky for some students as well, so be prepared to work hard in your respiratory therapy program.

Where do respiratory therapists make the most money?

According to the BLS, respiratory therapists earn the highest average salaries in outpatient care centers — $96,470. Employment services come next at $87,410.

The states that pay respiratory therapists the highest average salaries are:

  1. California: $92,660
  2. Alaska: $83,530
  3. New York: $83,510
  4. Hawaii: $80,140
  5. Massachusetts: $78,470

Is a respiratory therapy degree worth it?

For many people, a respiratory therapy degree is worth the time and cost. This degree can get you into a rewarding and in-demand medical career in just two years or less. You'll also likely earn a solid salary.


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