Best Online Respiratory Therapy Programs
Respiratory therapists assist patients with breathing issues, such as asthma, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). An aging population can lead to more instances of these conditions — and a greater demand for respiratory specialists.
Respiratory therapy requires an associate degree, making it one of the quickest career paths in healthcare. In this guide, we introduce the best online respiratory therapy programs and outline some considerations to keep in mind when entering this profession.
Why Enroll in an Online Respiratory Therapy Program
- As a respiratory therapist, you can help improve patients’ quality of life.
- Graduates of online respiratory therapy programs can start working in the medical field after only 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.
- You could keep a job while earning a degree online. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), in October 2024, 49.2% of full-time college students held jobs while earning their degrees.
Top 20 Online Respiratory Therapy Programs
Sinclair Community College
- Dayton, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
40%
$3,409
N/A
$6,676
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 18,794
- Institution Type
- Public
Central New Mexico Community College
- Albuquerque, NM
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
44%
$1,344
65%
$7,104
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 23,096
- Institution Type
- Public
Florida State College at Jacksonville
- Jacksonville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
74%
$2,095
N/A
$7,947
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 24,605
- Institution Type
- Public
Ivy Tech Community College
- Indianapolis, IN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
58%
$4,350
53%
$8,511
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 72,689
- Institution Type
- Public
Forsyth Technical Community College
- Winston-Salem, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
50%
$1,824
61%
$6,432
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 7,695
- Institution Type
- Public
Miami Dade College
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
18%
$1,987
N/A
$7,947
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 51,679
- Institution Type
- Public
Delta College
- University Center, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
33%
$ 5,910
62%
$11,130
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 7,819
- Institution Type
- Public
Clark State Community College
- Springfield, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
44%
$3,176
N/A
$6,352
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 5,669
- Institution Type
- Public
Erie Community College
- Buffalo, NY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
29%
$4,900
56%
$9,466
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 10,031
- Institution Type
- Public
Indian River State College
- Fort Pierce, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
45%
$2,496
N/A
$9,360
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 16,942
- Institution Type
- Public
Palm Beach State College
- Lake Worth, FL
- 4 year
- Campus
- Accredited
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
31%
$2,424
N/A
$8,712
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 31,289
- Institution Type
- Public
Pitt Community College
- Winterville, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
49%
$1,824
64%
$6,432
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 8,237
- Institution Type
- Public
Gulf Coast State College
- Panama City, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
46%
$1,750
N/A
$7,064
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 4,797
- Institution Type
- Public
Hutchinson Community College
- Hutchinson, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
39%
$2,730
58%
$3,660
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 5,315
- Institution Type
- Public
Henry Ford College
- Dearborn, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
31%
$4,248
N/A
$6,168
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 12,146
- Institution Type
- Public
Muskegon Community College
- Muskegon, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
41%
$ 8,720
65%
$12,240
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 3,999
- Institution Type
- Public
Coastal Pines Technical College
- Waycross, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
30%
$2,147
58%
$4,294
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 4,498
- Institution Type
- Public
San Juan College
- Farmington, NM
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
47%
$1,176
57%
$3,720
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 6,741
- Institution Type
- Public
Broward College
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
32%
$1,968
N/A
$1,968
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 38,976
- Institution Type
- Public
Mott Community College
- Flint, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
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
21%
$4,402
57%
$6,274
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 7,564
- Institution Type
- Public
Why Accreditation Matters for Respiratory Therapy
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 school, 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 Do You Learn in an Online Respiratory Care Program?
Online respiratory therapy programs take 18-24 months to complete and require courses in:
- Medical terminology
- Respiratory diseases
- Airway care
- Home care
You’ll apply what you learn in the virtual classroom to an in-person practicum. Program advisors can help you find an appropriate placement within commuting distance.
Programs may use a synchronous or asynchronous curriculum. Choose the latter if you plan to work full or part time while in school.
Your program may award an associate of science (AS) or an associate of applied science (AAS) degree. Both types of degrees can help you qualify for a license, as long as the curriculum meets your state’s requirements.
Is Respiratory Therapy School Worth It?
$80,450
Median salary for respiratory therapists
+12%
Projected job growth (2024-2034)
The typical respiratory therapist earns over $30,000 more per year than the average American. This increased salary potential makes earning a degree a wise investment, especially if you attend an affordable in-state community or junior college. You can further raise your salary potential by:
- Focusing your job search on private, state, and local hospitals
- Gaining professional experience
- Relocating to California, Texas, Florida, or another state that employs many respiratory therapists.
The BLS projects the need for respiratory therapists to grow at a rate four times higher than the average projected growth rate for all U.S. jobs. BLS data that supports this impressive projection includes the increasing number of older Americans with lung or breathing conditions. Other trends that support the growing need for respiratory therapists include the opening of many outpatient care clinics nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical admission requirements for two-year colleges include a high school or GED diploma. Before starting the program, you may need to complete prerequisites in human anatomy, composition, and chemistry. Your program may also use a GPA cutoff to accept only qualified applicants.