Employment opportunities for skilled technicians who render specialized services, such as respiratory therapists, are growing rapidly. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLD) has indicated that respiratory therapists’ employment outlook is expected to grow by 19% from 2019 to 2029. Hence, the figure indicates a much faster than average growth compared to other occupations.
Respiratory therapy involves diagnosing and treating sufferers of short-term or long-term lung and heart dysfunctions. They work with patients with different age groups, ranging from premature babies to the elderly suffering from sleeping disorders or respiratory and cardiopulmonary issues.
With lucrative salaries, a rapidly growing job market, and stable employment, a career in respiratory therapy is a rewarding experience. However, excruciating work hours and being under-trained can be mentally, physically, and financially challenging for many students. As a result, many students have considered online programs for added convenience and flexibility, saving them financial resources and time.
Are you planning on getting a degree in Online Respiratory Therapy? We’ve rounded up the 15 best Online Schools for Respiratory Therapy programs!
Our list of the 15 Best Online Schools for Respiratory Therapy Degree Programs in 2021 aims to help students make the right decision when choosing an online program. The schools, scattered all over the United States and featured in random order, are all highly recommended. Each of the schools was picked based on these factors:
- Offers 100% online or hybrid program availability,
- Convenient and flexible scheduling for adult learners,
- Properly accredited by Respiratory Therapy program accrediting agencies and state or regional academic organizations,
- Comprehensive coursework that encompasses a vast array of theoretical and practical activities including lectures, research, and experimentation, as detailed on the Respiratory Therapy curricula,
- Features the most up-to-date and cutting-edge innovative technologies and practices,
- Offers Grants, scholarships, and financial aid.
Want to know more about or selection and listing process? Please visit our Methodology page.
- University of Southern Indiana
- Saint Leo University
- University of Missouri
- University of Cincinnati
- Liberty University
- Marian University
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
- Oregon Institute of Technology
- Nebraska Methodist College
- Boise State University
- University of Kansas Medical Center
- Jacksonville State University
- Northeastern University
- Nova Southeastern University
- Northern Kentucky University
University of Southern Indiana
Online Registered Respiratory Therapists to BS in Respiratory Therapy
Program Standouts:
An online Registered Respiratory Therapists to Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (RRT-BSRT) is a well-known program offered at the College of Nursing and Health Professions, University of Southern Indiana. The RRT-BSRT program is suitable for Registered Respiratory Therapists through the NBRC and who are already practicing their profession. Students will have personalized study plans that combine previously obtained academic credits from their RRT program. The program has six application deadlines annually. Students can apply during spring, summer, or fall terms. Upon proof of RRT licensure and other applicable credentials, a 50-credit hour is applied toward the program. Depending on the students’ commitment to learning, they can obtain their degrees within 12 months. All non-respiratory and respiratory courses are delivered in a 7-week duration.
Campus Location: Evansville, Indiana
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 94.6%
- Graduation: 38%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed USI online undergraduate application
- Completed USI RRT-BSRT application
- Associate degree
- Cumulative GPA of 2.3
- RRT credential from the NBRC
- Official transcripts
- $40 non-refundable application fee
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Management and Leadership for Respiratory Therapy
- Professional Issues in Respiratory Therapy
- Advanced Critical Care Management
- Introduction to Research in Respiratory Therapy
- Independent Study (1 to 6 credit hours)
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates with RRT-BSRT degrees at USI apply their expertise and skills to specific scopes of respiratory therapy. Through the program, they gain in-depth knowledge of respiratory treatment, management, and diagnosis of patients with cardiopulmonary diseases.
Graduates also demonstrate character development and professional behaviors associated with respiratory care professional conduct, ethical obligations, and code of ethics. They have a comprehensive understanding of the significance of pulmonary rehabilitation and its effects on cardiopulmonary dysfunctions.
Learn more about the University of Southern Indiana’s Online Registered Respiratory Therapists to Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Program.
Saint Leo University
Online BS in Respiratory Therapy
Program Standouts:
Saint Leo University has an online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program dedicated to practicing respiratory therapists who want to advance in the respiratory therapy profession, enhance their respiratory therapy knowledge, and pursue new employment prospects. Unlike entry-level respiratory therapy programs, the university’s BSRT program allows respiratory therapists to integrate current career objectives while preparing for future respiratory care positions. Students who already completed an associate degree in respiratory therapy are qualified to apply to the online BSRT program. Upon evaluating the associate program’s academic credits, applicants can obtain 64 credits or more toward the baccalaureate program. The online BSRT program is a 2-year program, with students accomplishing one or more 8-week online courses per year. Depending on the students’ timeframe and pace of learning, they can complete the program within one to three years. Although the program doesn’t require any practicum or clinical study, the BSRT program culminates with a capstone requirement.
Campus Location: St. Leo, Florida
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 60.3%
- Graduation: 54%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Current unencumbered licensure in Florida or state of employment
- Active Registered Respiratory Therapist credential through NBRC
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- If currently in a program, minimum C rating in all enrolled courses
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Advanced Neonatal and Pediatric Respiratory Care
- Teaching in Respiratory Therapy
- Advanced Cardiopulmonary Pathophysiology
- Program Administration in Respiratory Therapy
- Respiratory Therapy Capstone
Degree Outcomes:
Saint Leo graduates with a respiratory therapy program are allowed to excel further in their professions. After graduation from the program, they are employed as leaders, managers, and respiratory therapists in healthcare facilities. Through the program, they understand how to demonstrate an analytical approach to clinical circumstances by applying clinical and biomedical sciences. Graduates demonstrate efficiency in applying, evaluating, and accessing evidence-based respiratory care research.
Learn more about Saint Leo University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Program.
University of Missouri
Online Bachelor of Health Science in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences – Respiratory Therapy
Program Standouts:
University of Missouri’s online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program is offered through the School of Health Professions. The online Respiratory Therapy baccalaureate program focuses on providing practical care and assistance in managing and recovering a diverse range of cardiopulmonary conditions. If you currently have an active RRT credential from NBRC, the online BSRT program is a suitable option. The program doesn’t require any campus visits; hence, it’s an excellent way to earn a baccalaureate degree without compromising students’ professional and personal obligations. The BSRT program requires 120 credit hours for completion. Students can transfer a maximum of 30 credit hours to save costs and time. Students complete the program with both self-paced and semester-based courses. As part of their culminating experience, they can choose the teaching practicum experience.
Campus Location: Columbia, Missouri
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 77.8%
- Graduation: 68%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts
- NBRC credentials
- Two letters of recommendation
- Copies of NRP and PALS certifications (If available)
- Copies of ACLS and BLS certifications
- Minimum of 24-credit hour prerequisites
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Adult Critical Care
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- Pediatric Respiratory Care
- Clinical Ethics
- Teaching Practicum OR Essentials of Pathology OR Organization and Administration
Degree Outcomes:
University of Missouri’s graduates work as consultants, community educators, academic and clinical professors, medical equipment industry managers, and advanced clinicians. They develop their expertise and aptitude regarding clinical ethics, community and patient education, advanced mechanical ventilation, and pediatric respiratory therapy.
Learn more about the University of Missouri’s Online Bachelor of Health Science in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences – Respiratory Therapy Program.
University of Cincinnati
Online BS in Respiratory Therapy
Program Standouts:
University of Cincinnati’s online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program has one of the most generous transfer credits around Ohio. Applicants can transfer a maximum of 70 credits into the respiratory therapy baccalaureate program. Through the online BSRT program, RRTs and CRTs are prepared with additional learning and skills and competencies in research, education, and management with their profession. A total of 50 credit hours is required for degree completion. Applicants can enroll during the summer, fall, or spring semesters.
Aside from coursework completion, students should comply with the internship requirements as mandated by the university. The respiratory internship program requires 20 hours of observation in their preferred respiratory therapy specialization. If you’re currently employed, the observation can be performed in the workplace as long as the specialty field isn’t the students’ current scope. It should also be conducted during non-working hours. Hence, the paid work hours can’t be counted as the observation hours. A capstone project serves as a culminating requirement. It should cover one of the specified disciplines, namely Education and Research, Leadership and Project Management, and Disease Management.
Campus Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 73.1%
- Graduation: 66%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $50 application fee
- NBRC credentials
- Official transcripts
- Associate degree
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Transfer credits
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Ethics of Respiratory Therapy
- Aging and Respiratory Therapy
- Management in Respiratory Therapy
- 3-credit hour Specialty Respiratory Therapy Internship
- 6-semester hour Respiratory Therapy Capstone
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy at UC can easily progress in their careers or pursue a master’s program. They gain the essential training and hands-on experience to help them work with patients suffering from lung and heart diseases.
Graduates also emerge with knowledge of caregiver work, patient education, and disease management and assessment. The program makes them proficient in setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment with limited tools while in home-based care environments.
Learn more about the University of Cincinnati’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Program.
Liberty University
Online BS in Respiratory Therapy (RRT to BSRT)
Program Standouts:
The online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program at Liberty University requires 120 credit hours for graduation. The university’s online BSRT program upgrades your certification as a respiratory therapist to a baccalaureate degree through credit transfers. Previous studies or training may be credited to up to 75% of the required credits.
Students can accomplish an additional concentration toward a full baccalaureate credential and advanced skills sets! The curriculum is integrated with a Christian perspective. Classes are taught entirely online, with an 8-week course duration. Depending on students’ commitment, they can earn the program within two years on average.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 55.5%
- Graduation: 34%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $50 application fee
- High school self-certification form
- Official and unofficial transcripts
- Associate degree in respiratory therapy
- RRT credential
- Proof of English proficiency
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Respiratory Care Management and Leadership
- Advanced Ventilator Support
- Neonatal Respiratory Care
- Seminar
- Pulmonary Function Testing
Degree Outcomes:
After completing the online RRT to BSRT program at Liberty University, graduates obtain the skills, knowledge, and values for career advancement and increase proficiency in the respiratory therapy field. Through the program, you can also learn up-to-date trends and practices that will help you thrive in your career as a respiratory therapist.
Learn more about Liberty University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (RRT to BSRT) Program.
Marian University
Online BS in Respiratory Therapy
Program Standouts:
Marian University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program is suitable for students who already complete an accredited associate’s degree in respiratory therapy. Hence, you can build upon your skills, progress in your career, and help you become a highly-desirable professional in the healthcare industry. The online BSRT program is one of the university’s MPath undergraduate degree programs. It is taught in a 7-week accelerate learning format. With MPath learning, students can enroll anytime since the university offers six start dates annually. The 120-credit hour online BSRT program can be completed in as few as 18 months. Although the program doesn’t have any clinical requirements or practicum, students must prove that they’ve completed clinical hours at the associate degree level. Upon enrollment, they can transfer 43 credit hours obtained from the associate-level studies. Marian University’s articulation agreement with Wisconsin Technical Colleges, graduates from the said school, can enjoy additional transfer credits. Aside from that, Wisconsin Technical Colleges applicants can qualify for a 20% tuition discount. Like other universities, the online BSRT program at Marian culminates in an Allied Health capstone, letting students solve real-world problems through evidence-backed research.
Campus Location: Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 61.4%
- Graduation: 55%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts
- Associate’s degree
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
- RRT credential
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Allied Health Capstone
- Research Methods
- Intercultural Communication
- Principles of Management
- Introduction to Health Care Administration
Degree Outcomes:
The training provided at Marian University prepares graduates to further their careers as respiratory therapists regardless of their work setting. Discussions are centered on healthcare administration and management and research methods that build their aptitude with valuable leadership, research, and communication competencies.
Learn more about Marian University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Program.
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Online MS in Respiratory Care
Recommended Schools
Program Standouts:
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio has an online Master of Science in Respiratory Care program meant for RRTs who have completed a baccalaureate degree in respiratory care or a respiratory therapy program. Aside from that, the program is also suitable for RRTs who have obtained a bachelor’s degree in any field of discipline but have completed an associate degree in a CoARC-accredited program and prerequisite requirements. As a result, students can choose from the program’s two tracks, namely the Degree Advancement Program and the Entry to the Profession Program. The former program is suitable for RRTs with a baccalaureate degree to earn a master’s degree ins respiratory care, while the latter is meant for students with any educational background to acquire the skills and expertise to become RRTs. Students must have a minimum of 33 credit hours for degree completion. The online MSRC program is not open to all residents in the U.S. That said, applicants must verify before applying to the program.
Campus Location: San Antonio, Texas
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 81.7%
- Graduation: 92%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts
- RRT or equivalent credentials
- Baccalaureate degree
- Two letters of recommendation
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Applied Statistics for Health Care Practitioners
- Cardiopulmonary Physiology
- Patient Assessment
- Education in Respiratory Care
- Independent Study
Degree Outcomes:
The MSRC program at UTHSCSA prepares graduates with advanced-level knowledge for advanced clinical practices. Graduates demonstrate the ability to collaborate with interprofessional healthcare teams. The master’s program also exhibits management attributes to advocate quality and safe care for diverse patients within various work environments.
Learn more about The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio’s Online Master of Science in Respiratory Care Program.
Oregon Institute of Technology
Online BS in Respiratory Care
Program Standouts:
The online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care program at Oregon Institute of Technology integrates coursework in a general education core and leadership and scientific fundamentals with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The program provides students with continuing education in their careers, new career opportunities, and the baccalaureate degree for further studies. It is suitable for practicing respiratory therapists who want to obtain a bachelor’s program. Students start the online BSRC program with a concrete foundation for graduation developed in two sources: credit awarded for professional credentials/registries and credit obtained from another school and transfer to OIT. For instance, a total of 80 credit hours are transferred for RRT credentials. To be accepted into the program, applicants must have current employment with a properly-equipped respiratory care work environment.
Campus Location: Klamath Falls, Oregon
Accreditation:
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 95.8%
- Graduation: 43%
Admission Requirements:
- $40 application fee
- Completed online application
- RRT credentials through NBRC
- 10-panel drug screen
- Health physical requirements
- Background check
- Official and unofficial transcripts
- Official Spring transcripts (For transferees only)
- Cover letter
- Minimum GPA of 2.75
- Applicant interview
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Critical Care I – III
- Advanced Life Support
- Mechanical Ventilation I and II
- Respiratory Gas Therapeutics
- Emergent Chest Radiographic Interpretation
Degree Outcomes:
The majority of graduates at Oregon Institute of Technology with a BSRC degree pursue advanced degrees in education, healthcare, and business. They are equipped with the essential skills and knowledge in their profession’s practice in diverse work environments. Graduates are also proficient in advocating quality and safe respiratory care practices among patients and their family members.
Learn more about the Oregon Institute of Technology’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care Program.
Nebraska Methodist College
Online BS in Respiratory Therapy
Program Standouts:
Nebraska Methodist College’s Josie Harper Campus offers an online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program that requires 129 credit hours for degree completion. The program emphasizes the holistic approach of the respiratory care occupation. Through the online BSRT program, students can choose from two advanced tracks, namely Healthcare Management and Leadership or Education and Research. Regardless of the tracks, both require 12 credit hours of specialized courses depending on students’ preferences. Besides specialized courses and core program, students at Nebraska Methodist College must complete the integrated Educated Citizen Core Curriculum. As a result, they must accomplish a set of Arts and Sciences requirements. Academic minors included in the program are courses in Healthcare Sign Language and Spanish for Healthcare Professionals.
Campus Location: Omaha, Nebraska
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
- Higher Learning Commission
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 90.7%
- Graduation: 80%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- CoARC-accredited associate degree
- RRT or CRT credentials
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Official transcripts
- Accomplishment of technical program standards
- State Authorization Guidelines (For Non-Nebraska Residents)
- State Authorization requirements (For Non-Nebraska Residents)
- Written statement
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- The Sociology of Culture
- Healthcare Quality
- Operations Management in Healthcare
- Wellness Implementation and Evaluation
- Speech Communication
Degree Outcomes:
The school’s graduates with a BSRT program can demonstrate respiratory therapists’ efficiency in disease prevention and health promotion. When working as respiratory therapists, they integrate educational theory practice to advocate training and awareness programs for pulmonary illnesses patients. Besides that, graduates can become effective leaders, fostering state healthcare regulations that impact professional practice and patient care.
Learn more about Nebraska Methodist College’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Program.
Boise State University
Online RRT-BS in Respiratory Care Degree Advancement
Program Standouts:
Boise State University offers an online RRT-Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care Degree Advancement program. The program’s curriculum is designed to develop respiratory care capabilities, offer networking opportunities, and help respiratory therapists with career progression. Admission to the program is available three times per academic year. That said, students can enroll during the spring, summer, or fall semester. Students can enjoy flexible schedules to create a personalized study plan, letting them accomplish their degrees without compromising family and professional commitments. The RRT-BSDAP program offers two degree pathways, namely a part-time pathway and a fast-track pathway. The university also helps students with their academic journey through personalized advising and various student support services. A total of 30 credit hours is required in the online RRT-BSDAP program completion.
Campus Location: Boise, Idaho
Accreditation:
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 80.7%
- Graduation: 39%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $50 application fee
- Official transcripts
- Completed RRT to BSDAP application
- Prerequisite courses (If applicable)
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Patient Advocacy and Ethical Considerations
- Leadership and Management for Health Care Professionals
- Professional Communication in Health Care
- Senior Seminar
- Critical Review of Health Care Research
Degree Outcomes:
Boise State University’s online respiratory care program provides working respiratory therapists with advanced knowledge and skillsets to help achieve professional objectives. According to the university’s student learning outcome statement, graduates will become proficient in the following aspects:
- Educating Healthcare Professionals and Patients
- Ethical Leadership
- Inter-Professional Collaboration/Teamwork
- Evidence-Based Treatment
- Oral Communication
- Writing
Learn more about Boise State University’s Online RRT-Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care Degree Advancement Program.
University of Kansas Medical Center
Online BS in Respiratory Care Advancement
Program Standouts:
The University of Kansas Medical Center has an online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care Advancement Program for professional respiratory therapists desiring to obtain a baccalaureate degree. Hence, the program doesn’t provide the qualifications and credentials for professional licensure/certification required for employment. Depending on their workload, students can enroll as a full-time or part-time student. The program is designed to be convenient and flexible, allowing students to develop a plan of study that best fits their schedule. The online respiratory care program requires students to have a minimum of 30 credit hours of core respiratory care courses. Once admitted into the program, students work with a faculty advisor to create a study plan and choose a clinical specialty. Specializations include respiratory care management, adult critical care, and neonatal critical care. If the preferred area of specialty isn’t among the option, advisor approval should be provided. With 8-week course delivery, students can complete their baccalaureate program within four semesters or longer. Students can either take the fast track or the extended track. Regardless of their chosen track, a 6-credit hour capstone project culminates in the program.
Campus Location: Kansas City, Kansas
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 91.7%
- Graduation: 63%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- RRT license
- Proof of American Association of Respiratory Care membership
- Official transcripts
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Chronic Disease Management
- Simulation and Inter-Professional Education
- Community and Global Health
- Management, Ethics, and Law
- Medical Writing & Research
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates at the University of Kansas Medical Center enhance and portray a professionally-relevant project associated with their career objectives. They gain the necessary competencies to demonstrate their capacity to review, interpret, and access medical study relevant to respiratory care, clinical education, and healthcare management.
Learn more about the University of Kansas Medical Center’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care Advancement Program.
Jacksonville State University
Online RRT-BS Bridge Program
Program Standouts:
The online RRT-BS Bridge Program at Jacksonville State University is suitable for registered respiratory therapists who already have an associate-level degree and planning to pursue baccalaureate degrees. It is exclusively designed for applicants who are already working as respiratory therapists within the healthcare industry. The core requirement consists of 56 semester hours, 32 of which should be completed at JSU. Aside from core coursework, students must also accomplish the Advanced Practice Elective on a semester of their choice. Completing the specified elective includes one course out of eight advanced practice credentials, including Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Certified Asthma Education, Registered Sleep Disorder Specialist, or Neonatal-Perinatal Specialist. The program can be completed in 12 months if the student already accomplishes the core program.
Campus Location: Jacksonville, Alabama
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 54.3%
- Graduation: 35%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- RRT license
- Current driver’s license
- Prerequisite courses
- Official transcripts
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Advanced Ventilatory Support
- Healthcare Education for Respiratory Therapists
- Advanced Neonatal and Pediatric Care
- Critical Care Monitoring
- Alternative Care Roles for Respiratory Therapists
Degree Outcomes:
Respiratory therapists strengthen their skillset as advanced-level clinicians, educators, and leaders in the industry. Aside from that, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in a respiratory therapy-created program can pursue post-baccalaureate programs.
Learn more about Jacksonville State University’s Online RRT-BS Bridge Program.
Northeastern University
Online MS in Respiratory Care Leadership
Program Standouts:
Northeastern University’s online Master of Science in Respiratory Care Leadership program is very few respiratory care-related programs at the master’s level. The curriculum consists of respiratory core and leadership courses. Aside from that, the online MSRCL program offers four concentrations to choose from, namely, Respiratory Specialty Practice, Health Management, Clinical Trial Design, and Adult and Organizational Learning.
Campus Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Accreditation:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 19.3%
- Graduation: 84%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Statement of purpose
- Professional resume
- Official and unofficial transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Copy of RRT credential
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Development of Patient Management Plans
- Applied Research in Respiratory Care
- Research Design
- Advanced Cardiopulmonary Physiology
- The Evolving Roles of Respiratory Care Professionals
Degree Outcomes:
Northeastern University’s graduates with an online master’s degree in respiratory care program are proactively participating in intensive respiratory care research that has garnered recognition from the American Association for Respiratory Care Congress. As a graduate, you’ll be part of the growing statistics of registered therapists trained at Northeastern working in the major international pharmaceutical and medical companies, colleges and universities, and acute care facilities across Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Canada, and the U.S.
Learn more about Northeastern University’s Online Master of Science in Respiratory Care Leadership Program.
Nova Southeastern University
Online BS in Respiratory Therapy Post-Professional
Program Standouts:
Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences at Nova Southeastern University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Post-Professional program that requires 120 credit hours for degree completion. The program comprises 39 credits in topics, such as evidence-based practice, legal issues, and outpatient services. Aside from that, you are required to take 30-credit hour general education courses, 6-credit hour practical courses, and a 45-credit hour block grant for your current RRT credentials. The online program also offers an optional specialization in health care management. Students take five courses either as a required practical coursework component or on top of the post-professional program curriculum through this specialization. Students pursuing this optional component are granted a BSRT degree with a health care management specialization.
Campus Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 78.5%
- Graduation: 62%
Admission Requirements:
- $50 non-refundable application fee
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts
- NBRC documentation
- RRT license and other credentials
- Prerequisite courses
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- Quality Improvement in Health Care
- Education Principles in Health Care
- Advanced Patient Monitoring and Assessment
- Sleep Medicine
- Statistics for Health Sciences
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates at NSU with a BSRT Post-Professional program demonstrate proficiency and effectiveness in building evidence-based best practices through interpretation, research, and professional medical literature access. They also demonstrate the competencies of physiological components for treatment, diagnosis, assessment, advanced patient monitoring, and therapeutic interventions.
Learn more about Nova Southeastern University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy Post-Professional Program
Northern Kentucky University
Online BS in Respiratory Care
Program Standouts:
The online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care program at Northern Kentucky University highlights practical experience in the respiratory therapy field. The BSRC Completion program is designed for students who have associate degrees to complete a baccalaureate degree. The 30-credit hour online BSRC program can be completed in as few as 12 months. Another noteworthy aspect of NKU’s online respiratory care program is it offers the same inexpensive, pay per course tuition scheme to in-state and out-of-state learners.
Campus Location: Boise, Idaho
Accreditation:
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Acceptance and Graduation Rates:
- Acceptance: 89.3%
- Graduation: 37%
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Associate degree
- Current RRT credential from NBRC
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- Criminal background check
Sample Course Options and Requirements:
- 2 Respiratory Care Capstone
- Teaching and Learning in Healthcare Education
- Advanced Critical Care
- Health Assessment and Promotion
- Case Studies in Evidence-Based Practice
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates with a BSRC degree at NKU are qualified to take and pass the National Board for Respiratory Care Therapist Multiple Choice certification. After degree completion, they can work in clinical facilities, outpatient services, long-term care facilities, and hospitals. Graduates also utilize the most effective forms of professional communication, including innovative systems to convey the target audience’s message.
Learn more about Northern Kentucky University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care Program.
What is the importance of accreditation in an online Respiratory Therapy degree program?
Accreditation is the most crucial factor when selecting the right online program for your online Respiratory Therapy degree. Without accreditation status, many companies or employers won’t recognize your degrees. Hence, it’s better to invest in an online respiratory degree with an accredited institution. In short, a school or program’s accreditation status guarantees potential employers that the students’ program has achieved the highest standards. It also indicates that graduates have been adequately trained in their area of discipline and are highly sought-after. Enrolling in a non-accredited college or university will also imply that the applicant isn’t eligible to receive financial aid or transfer credits. In some cases, it hinders the graduate’s opportunity to receive suitable professional licensure or certification in their discipline area.
The main accrediting agency for respiratory therapy or respiratory care programs is CoARC or the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. CoARC is nationally recognized and committed to guaranteeing high-quality and reputable academic programs that help prepare students for respiratory care careers. The agency evaluates a specific program’s credentials based on important factors, including reports during the accreditation period, on-site evaluation, and assessment criteria. All programs accredited by the CoARC are assessed every year to make sure standards are consistently being achieved.
What is the expected salary for graduates with an online Respiratory Therapy degree?
Graduates with an online Respiratory Therapy degree pursue careers as respiratory therapists, providing a report for diagnosis and treatment for patients suffering from cardiopulmonary diseases, such as sleep apnea, cystic fibrosis, and chronic bronchitis asthma. They also care for patients who are recovering from a stroke and heart attack. Respiratory therapists’ daily task includes conducting examinations on patients to diagnose lung and heart conditions. Also, they work with physicians to suggest appropriate treatment plans by performing physical exams, evaluating treatment, responding to patients’ urgent care and needs, and educating patients and their families to maximize their treatment plans.
According to the data reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the latest median annual salary for respiratory therapists is $61,330. Depending on the facility they’re working in, these professionals’ wage ranges from $44,850 to $86,980. More lucrative-paying careers and management roles are reserved for applicants with baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate degrees. Most respiratory therapists find career opportunities in hospitals, nursing care environments, and other healthcare facilities.
What are the different specializations in an online Respiratory Therapy degree program?
Typically, respiratory therapists work under the physicians’ supervision in facilitating respiratory treatment plans for a range of cardiopulmonary illnesses and dysfunctions. The traditional nature of work in a healthcare facility includes clinical decision-making, immediate patient care and service, and patient education. Besides their conceptual knowledge and general study, respiratory therapists can also integrate a specialized practice and care area. The three standard specializations include the following:
Pulmonary Function
Respiratory Therapists employed in pulmonary function are primarily responsible for helping other medical professionals diagnose, monitor, and treat lung illnesses. Using a diverse range of methods and equipment, they conduct spirometry, cardiopulmonary exercise tests, and other diagnostic exams, offer educational services to patients and family members, and facilitate respiratory treatment plans.
Pediatric Care
Attending to children of different age groups, pediatric respiratory therapists administer medicated therapy, asthma treatment and education, oxygen therapy, medicate aerosol therapy, airway management, and ventilation to young patients. Hence, they address both general and critical care associated with cardiopulmonary diseases among children.
Neonatal Care
Respiratory therapists within the neonatal care field are primarily responsible for various tasks when caring for newborns. They assist infants in facilitating breathing treatments, transporting, managing ventilators, performing critical deliveries, and intubating babies.
