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 Online Respiratory Therapy Programs
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 (2024)
+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.