How long does it take to complete respiratory therapy training?
Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy
- Time to complete: Typically two years.
- Type of program: Community college or vocational school.
- Educational requirement: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Curriculum: Includes coursework in respiratory care procedures, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment.
- Clinical training: Students complete clinical rotations in hospitals and other healthcare settings.
- Licensure: After completing an associate degree, graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam.
Bachelor's Degree in Respiratory Therapy
- Time to complete: Typically four years.
- Type of program: College or university.
- Educational requirement: High school diploma or equivalent.
- Curriculum: Includes coursework in respiratory care procedures, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, and advanced respiratory topics.
- Clinical training: Students complete clinical rotations in hospitals and other healthcare settings.
- Licensure: After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam and may also be eligible for specialized certifications.
After completing the education and clinical training requirements, respiratory therapists must pass a national board exam to become licensed. The exam is administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Once licensed, respiratory therapists are qualified to work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, physician's offices, and home healthcare agencies.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the specific requirements for respiratory therapy training programs may vary in different countries or regions. It's recommended to research and compare programs in your area to determine the best fit for your career goals.