
To pursue a career as a respiratory therapist, you typically need to complete either an Associates degree in Respiratory Care or a Bachelor of Health Science in Respiratory Care. After completing your education, you’ll need to pass credentialing examinations and obtain state licensure. These requirements enable you to qualify for employment in this rapidly growing field and make a meaningful impact on patients’ respiratory health.
Respiratory Therapist At a Glance
What is it like going back to school as an adult? Find out in this real respiratory therapist student’s story.
Median Annual Respiratory Therapist Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2022 Occupational Employment Statistics reports the following median annual salaries for respiratory therapists.
Respiratory Therapist Education
Respiratory therapists complete either 2-year associate’s degree or 4-year bachelor’s degree programs.
Upon graduation, you can choose to sit for a national exam to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). After passing this exam, you can decide to sit for two additional tests to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).
Most respiratory therapist schools offer an accredited four-year or higher degree. However, there are associate’s degrees and certificate programs that can get you started. All states, except Alaska, require respiratory therapists to obtain a license in order to practice.
Respiratory Therapist: Licensing
Generally, to qualify for state licenses, you must graduate from an accredited respiratory therapist school and pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam. Certified Respiratory Therapists who graduated from advanced-level programs and who have met experience requirements can take the exams leading toward the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. Certain specialty areas, such as intensive care units and supervisory positions, require CRT or RRT eligibility.
Your school advisor will be able to tell you what requirements have been set by the board of respiratory care examiners in your state.