Respiratory therapy is more than just a profession—it’s a calling. Imagine being the person who helps someone take their very first breath—or their very last one with comfort and dignity. That’s the kind of impact respiratory therapists make every single day.
These highly trained professionals play a vital role in patient care, helping those struggling with asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and life-threatening respiratory conditions breathe easier. If you’ve ever wondered what a respiratory therapist does or how to become a respiratory therapist, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to embark on this fulfilling and meaningful career path.
What Is a Respiratory Therapist?
Now that you know just how meaningful this career is, let’s take a closer look at what respiratory therapists do and how they make a difference every day.
A respiratory therapist (RT) is a highly trained healthcare professional specializing in assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with breathing disorders. Whether working in hospitals, emergency rooms, or home healthcare, RTs provide critical care to those with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and even life-threatening respiratory conditions.
What Does a Respiratory Therapist Do?
Respiratory therapists work closely with doctors and nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with respiratory issues. Their daily responsibilities include:
- Administering oxygen therapy
- Managing ventilators for critically ill patients
- Performing diagnostic tests like pulmonary function exams
- Educating patients on lung disease management
- Providing emergency care for patients experiencing respiratory distress
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist
If you’re ready to make a difference in respiratory care, here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Earn an Associate’s Degree
The first step to becoming an RT is earning an associate’s degree in respiratory care from an accredited program. These programs typically take about two years and cover essential topics like anatomy, physiology, and patient care techniques.
Step 2: Obtain Certification & Licensure
After earning your degree, you’ll need to pass the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Exam, administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Once you pass, you’ll earn the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential. Many states also require licensure, and obtaining the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential can expand your career opportunities.
Step 3: Gain Experience & Advance Your Education
While an associate’s degree is the entry-level requirement, many respiratory therapists choose to further their education to open up leadership, education, and specialized career opportunities. Advancing your education can lead to roles in management, research, or specialized care areas like neonatal and pediatric respiratory therapy.
Take Your Career Further with Rowan University’s Online B.S. in Respiratory Therapy
For working professionals looking to advance their careers without putting their jobs on hold, Rowan University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (B.S.R.T.). This Degree Advancement program is designed for individuals who have completed an associate’s degree in respiratory care and who hold the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.
Why Choose Rowan’s Online BSRT Program?
1. Learn 100% Online, On Your Terms
Rowan’s program is 100% online, offering flexibility so you can continue working while earning your degree. Whether you prefer asynchronous learning at your own pace or optional live sessions for interaction, the program is structured to fit your learning style.
2. A Program Designed for Your Success
At Rowan, we understand that every student has different learning preferences. That’s why the program is designed for flexibility. Most courses are asynchronous, so you can complete assignments on your schedule, while some offer optional synchronous components, such as live office hours or review sessions, for additional support and interaction.
3. Accredited & Respected in the Industry
You deserve a program that meets the highest industry standards. Rowan’s BSRT Degree Advancement program holds Provisional Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), ensuring you receive a top-quality education.
It is also recognized as an accredited program by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC), which means you’ll be eligible to sit for the Respiratory Care Credentialing Examination(s)—a major step toward career advancement.
4. Transfer-Friendly for a Seamless Transition
Already have college credits? Great! Rowan is a transfer-friendly school, making it simple to apply previously earned credits toward your bachelor’s degree. Whether you’ve studied at a community college, a four-year institution, or through military training, tools like the Transfer Equivalency Digital Portal (TREQ) and Transferology help you see exactly how your past coursework applies—so you can graduate faster.
5. Support Every Step of the Way
Online doesn’t mean alone. Rowan provides comprehensive support to help you thrive—both academically and personally. From virtual tutoring and personalized advising to career guidance and wellness resources, we’re here to help you stay on track and succeed.
6. Virtual Workshops to Keep You on Top of Your Game
Balancing work, school, and life can be challenging, but Rowan’s virtual workshops make it easier. You’ll have access to expert-led sessions on time management, motivation, study strategies, and organization, so you can stay focused and confident throughout your studies.
Take a Glimpse Into the Courses You’ll Take
Earning your degree isn’t just about checking off requirements—it’s about building real-world skills that will make a lasting impact on your patients and your career. Each course in Rowan’s online BSRT program is designed to deepen your expertise, expand your critical thinking, and prepare you for leadership in respiratory care.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the courses that will help shape your future in the field:
- Advanced Concepts in Respiratory and Critical Care – Explore the latest treatments and technology in critical care settings.
- Introduction to Disease Management – Learn how to support patients in managing chronic respiratory conditions.
- Leadership in Respiratory Care – Develop the skills to lead teams and make an impact in your workplace.
- Healthcare Delivery and Quality – Understand the policies, systems, and ethics that drive today’s healthcare industry.
- Ethics and End of Life Issues – Gain insight into the ethical challenges respiratory therapists face in critical care.
These courses are designed to expand your expertise, challenge your thinking, and prepare you for leadership and specialized roles in respiratory therapy. Want to see the full list of courses? Check out this program’s full curriculum to start envisioning your future!
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re looking to move into leadership, specialize in advanced clinical care, or open new career opportunities, Rowan’s online BSRT program gives you the tools, knowledge, and flexibility to get there.
Advance your career join a community of like-minded professionals making a difference in respiratory care. Apply now to get started today!