How to Become a Respiratory Therapist
- What Respiratory Therapists Do
- Key Skills and Traits for Success
- Common Work Environments
- How to Become a Respiratory Therapist (5 Steps)
- Education and Certification Options
- Career Growth and Advancement
- Cost and Duration of Training
- Pros and Cons
- Quick Facts: Respiratory Therapist Salary, Education, and Outlook
Respiratory therapists help patients breathe easier — from newborns in intensive care to adults recovering from illness or injury.
Their specialized medical training focuses on assessing and treating breathing and lung disorders.
If you’re interested in healthcare, patient interaction, and technology-driven medical care, becoming a respiratory therapist offers a vital and respected career path.
What Respiratory Therapists Do
Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat patients with breathing problems caused by chronic conditions, injuries, or emergencies. They work with physicians to deliver life-saving care and improve lung function.
Typical Responsibilities
- Assess lung capacity and oxygen levels
- Operate ventilators and respiratory equipment
- Administer oxygen, medications, and chest physiotherapy
- Develop treatment plans under physician supervision
- Educate patients about managing chronic conditions
- Respond to emergency breathing situations
Respiratory therapists are essential to modern healthcare, often serving as the first responders in critical care and trauma units.
Key Skills and Traits for Success
- Strong communication and empathy
- Attention to medical detail and accuracy
- Ability to stay calm under pressure
- Technical skill with monitoring and ventilator systems
- Knowledge of anatomy, biology, and pharmacology
- Commitment to patient safety and confidentiality
Common Work Environments
Respiratory therapists work in:
- Hospitals and intensive care units
- Emergency and trauma centers
- Pulmonary rehabilitation facilities
- Sleep labs and outpatient clinics
- Home healthcare and long-term care centers
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist (5 Steps)
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Take science and math classes such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy to prepare for respiratory care programs.
2. Complete an Accredited Respiratory Therapy Program
Most respiratory therapists earn an associate degree in respiratory care. Coursework includes cardiopulmonary physiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment.
3. Gain Clinical Experience
Hands-on training in hospitals and clinics provides real-world exposure to ventilator management, patient monitoring, and emergency care.
4. Get Certified and Licensed
Graduates must pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam to become a:
- Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Licensing is required in nearly every state and ensures professional competence and safety.
5. Continue Education and Specialize
Experienced therapists may pursue advanced credentials such as neonatal, pulmonary rehabilitation, or sleep disorder specialties.
Education and Certification Options
| Pathway | Typical Duration | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Required for entry-level licensing |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | Expands into leadership or teaching roles |
| Continuing Education | Ongoing | Maintains certification and specialization |
Career Growth and Advancement
With experience, respiratory therapists can advance into:
- Clinical Specialist – works in ICU or neonatal care
- Supervisor or Department Manager – oversees respiratory care teams
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist – supports long-term lung recovery
- Educator or Researcher – trains new therapists or contributes to clinical studies
Cost and Duration of Training
- Program Cost: $8,000–$25,000 depending on degree level and location
- Duration: 2–4 years
- Licensing Exam Fees: $190–$390 depending on credential
Many community colleges and technical schools offer accredited respiratory care programs with clinical rotations included.
Pros and Cons
Quick Facts: Respiratory Therapist Salary, Education, and Outlook
Respiratory Therapist Salary by State
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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