Respiratory Therapist Schools
Online respiratory therapist programs train learners for jobs in respiratory therapy. Coursework covers biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology. Aspiring respiratory therapists complete classes in clinical respiratory care, pharmacology, and mechanical ventilation. Some programs require work or volunteer experience in a hospital or vent center.
Graduates may work with doctors in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and sleep centers. Some respiratory therapists work in diagnostic labs and home health agencies. With additional training and experience, these professionals can advance to staff therapists or administrative positions.
This page highlights online respiratory therapist programs, including the costs and benefits of online learning.
View Our Rankings List HereFrequently Asked Questions About Respiratory Therapist Programs
Respiratory therapists need at least an associate degree. They must also pass a certifying exam. Full-time students can complete a respiratory therapy online program in two years.
Respiratory therapists care for patients with chronic respiratory illnesses. They also provide emergency care. These therapists examine patients and administer diagnostic tests. Respiratory therapists also help patients learn to use prescribed medications and equipment.
Respiratory therapists earn a median annual salary of $62,810, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This figure exceeds the median annual salary of $41,950 for all occupations.
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Why Get a Respiratory Therapist Degree?
Respiratory therapist careers offer opportunities to help patients and possibly even save their lives. Graduates can begin a career in the medical field after only two years of schooling. The BLS projects jobs for respiratory therapists to grow 23% from 2020-2030, which is much faster than average.
Many schools offer their respiratory therapist programs online. Enrollees can complete coursework around work and family responsibilities. Online students can enroll in the most affordable program without relocating.
How Much Does a Respiratory Therapist Degree Cost?
Respiratory therapist students spent an average of $11,150 on tuition in 2020-21. Students can save money by enrolling in an online respiratory therapist program. Online learners do not pay for campus housing or meal plans. They can also continue earning a salary while completing their degree.
Online students should budget for books and lab fees. Some programs also charge graduation fees. Aspiring respiratory therapists must pass the National Board for Respiratory Care Certified Respiratory Therapist and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exams. Each exam costs $190.
How Much Do Respiratory Therapists Make?
Top-earning respiratory therapists make a median annual salary of nearly $90,000, according to the BLS. Respiratory therapists with a bachelor's degree may qualify for jobs in hospital administration and management. Professionals can boost their salary by earning more advanced degrees and credentials.
After passing the RRT exam, certified respiratory therapists can gain credentials in areas such as asthma education and pediatrics. Each credential requires passing a national board exam.
Courses in a Respiratory Therapist Program
Online respiratory therapist programs help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Enrollees also gain technical skills. They learn how to give oxygen, operate mechanical ventilators, and measure lung function. Learners also study math, which helps them with job responsibilities such as measuring patients' medicine.
Respiratory therapy programs often include the courses below. Keep in mind that course titles and descriptions vary by program.
This course teaches students about mechanical ventilation technology and how it affects patients' oxygenation and ventilation ability. This knowledge helps prepare students for respiratory therapist careers, as these professionals must know how to use mechanical ventilators.Introduction to Mechanical Ventilation
This course provides basic scientific knowledge. Enrollees learn how the human body functions under healthy conditions and with certain diseases. Learners study each body system, such as the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and explore how they work together to maintain homeostasis.Integrative Systems Physiology
This course covers professional guidelines for approaching ethical dilemmas in respiratory therapist careers. Respiratory therapists may face difficulties involving physician-assisted suicide or advance directives. Enrollees also study federal and state healthcare laws. This course helps prepare graduates to make sound decisions in their future work.Medical Ethics
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How to Become a Respiratory Therapist
Aspiring respiratory therapists need an associate degree. Some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree. Along with coursework, respiratory therapy students complete clinical components in which they gain hands-on, supervised experience treating patients. Respiratory therapy graduates must pass a state or professional certification exam. Requirements vary by state.
Best Respiratory Therapist Programs
#1 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#2 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#3 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#4 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#5 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#6 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#7 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#8 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#9 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#10 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#11 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#12 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#13 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#14 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#15 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#16 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#17 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#18 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#19 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
#20 Best Respiratory Therapy Online 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
AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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