This guide explains how to become a respiratory therapist in the U.S., covering degree paths, accreditation, clinical training, NBRC certification, and state licensure. It helps you compare associate and bachelor’s programs, understand clinical hour expectations and prerequisites, prepare for credentialing exams, and navigate costs, admissions, and career outcomes across allied health schools.
Why Choose a Career in Respiratory Care
When you think about careers in healthcare, nursing and medicine often come to mind first. But there’s a specialized group of professionals who are experts in what is arguably the most fundamental function of life: breathing. Respiratory therapists are the specialists called when a patient can’t breathe, from a premature infant with underdeveloped lungs to an adult in critical care after major surgery. If you’re looking for a hands-on, high-impact allied health career, understanding what a respiratory therapist truly does is your first step.
At the core of the job is managing life-support equipment, most notably mechanical ventilators. This isn’t just about plugging in a machine. Respiratory therapists meticulously adjust settings to match a patient’s specific needs, analyze data from monitors and blood tests, and make critical decisions to help wean patients off the ventilator when they are strong enough. They are also experts in airway management. This involves everything from assisting physicians with intubation and managing artificial airways like tracheostomies to performing suctioning to clear secretions. Beyond the bedside, they conduct pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to diagnose conditions like asthma and COPD and analyze arterial blood gas samples to get a precise picture of a patient’s respiratory status. When a “Code Blue” is announced overhead, the respiratory therapist is a key member of the resuscitation team, responsible for securing the airway and providing ventilation.
While the intensive care unit (ICU) is a primary workplace, the role extends far beyond it. You’ll find respiratory therapists on general hospital floors managing oxygen therapy, in the emergency room stabilizing trauma patients, and in neonatal and pediatric ICUs caring for the smallest, most vulnerable patients. The work environment can also be outside the hospital. In outpatient clinics, therapists educate patients on managing chronic lung diseases. In home care, they set up and monitor equipment for patients who need long-term respiratory support, building lasting relationships. Others specialize in sleep medicine, working in labs to diagnose and treat disorders like sleep apnea. In every setting, you are a vital part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating daily with physicians, nurses, and physical therapists to create and execute patient care plans. Your specialized input is crucial for making informed decisions about a patient’s treatment.
This career demands a unique blend of skills. Critical thinking is non-negotiable; you must be able to analyze complex clinical data and act decisively under pressure. Strong communication skills are just as important, whether you’re explaining a procedure to an anxious patient’s family or providing a concise update to a physician. The job is very hands-on, requiring good manual dexterity for handling sensitive equipment and performing delicate procedures. And in a world where respiratory viruses are a constant concern, a deep-seated infection control mindset is essential to protect both your patients and yourself.
A career in respiratory care isn’t static. With experience, you can pursue advanced certifications to specialize in areas like adult critical care (ACCS), neonatal/pediatric care (NPS), or pulmonary diagnostics. These credentials not only deepen your expertise but also open doors to higher-level positions and increased earning potential. Many experienced therapists move into leadership roles, becoming department supervisors or managers. Others transition into education, teaching the next generation of therapists in clinical or academic settings. The foundational knowledge also serves as an excellent springboard into related fields, with some therapists going on to become physician assistants, perfusionists, or pursuing other advanced healthcare degrees.
The demand for respiratory therapists remains strong, driven by the healthcare needs of an aging population and the prevalence of chronic respiratory conditions. The need for experts in critical care and ventilator management is a constant in modern medicine. This sustained demand provides a high degree of job security. For a detailed look at the career outlook and salary expectations, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offers comprehensive data.
Of course, it’s important to weigh the realities of the job. The work is physically demanding, involving long hours on your feet, lifting, and moving patients and heavy equipment. Shift work is the norm, with many therapists working 12-hour shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. However, the job satisfaction can be immense. There are few things more rewarding than being the person who helps someone take their first independent breath after a crisis. It’s a direct, tangible impact that makes the challenges worthwhile for those who are passionate about this vital field.
Education Pathways and Degree Requirements
Your journey to becoming a respiratory therapist begins with a crucial decision about your education. In the United States, there are two primary entry-level degree pathways available, each with its own structure, timeline, and career implications. The most common route is the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science (AS) degree, typically completed in about two years. This path is intensely focused on providing the core scientific knowledge and hands-on clinical skills needed for entry-level practice. The curriculum is streamlined to get you into the workforce efficiently. The alternative is the Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care (BSRC), a four-year program that builds upon the same clinical foundation but adds coursework in areas like research, public health, leadership, and education.
Gaining admission into a respiratory care program is a competitive process. Regardless of the degree level, you will first need to complete a set of prerequisite courses. These almost always include:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II (with labs)
- Microbiology (with lab)
- General or Introductory Chemistry (with lab)
- College-level Math (often Algebra or higher)
Most programs require a minimum GPA, usually around 2.5, but competitive applicants often have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, especially in their science prerequisites. Beyond grades, admissions committees may look for healthcare experience, even volunteer hours, a strong performance in an interview, or a compelling personal essay. Program start dates vary; some follow a traditional academic year starting in the fall, while others offer a summer start, which can sometimes accelerate the program timeline.
For those already in the field, advancement is very accessible. Many institutions offer “bridge” or “degree completion” programs, such as an RRT-to-BSRC track. These are designed for working Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) who earned an associate’s degree and now wish to obtain a bachelor’s. Similar pathways may exist for other licensed allied health professionals who want to transition into respiratory care. These programs recognize your existing knowledge and clinical experience, providing a more direct route to the advanced degree.
Inside any respiratory care program, your learning will be a dynamic blend of theory and practice. Didactic instruction happens in the classroom, where you learn the science behind cardiopulmonary function, disease, and treatment. This theoretical knowledge is immediately applied in laboratory settings. You’ll practice skills like airway management, medication delivery, and ventilator setup on medical manikins and specialized equipment. Many programs also use high-fidelity simulation labs to create realistic patient scenarios, allowing you to develop critical thinking and emergency response skills in a safe, controlled environment before you ever step into a hospital.
When researching programs, one factor is non-negotiable: the program must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). This is the single most important credential a program can have. Graduating from a CoARC-accredited program is the only way you will be eligible to sit for the credentialing examinations administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Passing these exams is required to earn the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and the more advanced Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials. These credentials are, in turn, required for state licensure in 49 states and the District of Columbia. Without a degree from a CoARC-accredited program, the pathway to becoming a licensed respiratory therapist is effectively closed.
The cost of your education is a significant consideration. Tuition can range from a few thousand dollars per year at a public community college to tens of thousands at a private university. Remember to factor in additional expenses like textbooks, lab fees, scrubs, a stethoscope, and transportation costs to and from clinical sites, which may be located far from campus. The good news is that financial aid is widely available. Be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and actively search for scholarships. Many healthcare systems, professional organizations like the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), and local foundations offer scholarships specifically for allied health students.
When comparing programs, look beyond the price tag and focus on outcomes. CoARC requires all accredited programs to publish their results, including graduation rates, NBRC credentialing exam pass rates, and job placement rates. A program with consistently high pass rates on the first attempt and strong graduate employment is a clear indicator of quality instruction and effective clinical preparation.
So, which degree is right for you? If your goal is to enter the workforce quickly and begin your clinical career, an associate’s degree is an excellent and efficient choice. It provides all the necessary training to become a licensed and highly competent therapist. However, if you have long-term ambitions for leadership, management, research, or becoming an educator, a bachelor’s degree is increasingly becoming the standard. Many top-tier hospitals and specialized roles now prefer or require a BSRC. While the median annual wage for respiratory therapists was about $80,450 in May 2024, a bachelor’s degree can open doors to higher-paying roles and greater career mobility over time. You can find more details on salary expectations on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website. The beauty of this field is that you can always start with an associate’s degree and use a completion program to earn your bachelor’s later while you work.
Clinical Training Accreditation and Competency Requirements
After you’ve navigated the prerequisites and been accepted into an accredited respiratory care program, your education shifts from the classroom to the bedside. This is where theory becomes practice. The clinical training component is the heart of your preparation, and it’s meticulously structured to ensure every graduate is ready for the demands of the job from day one. This entire process is governed by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). CoARC doesn’t just stamp a program with approval; it sets rigorous standards for what you must learn and, more importantly, what you must be able to do. These standards dictate the curriculum and the specific clinical competencies you must master before you can graduate and sit for your board exams.
Your clinical experience, often called a practicum or externship, is not a single, long assignment. Instead, it’s a series of supervised rotations through various hospital departments and healthcare settings. This structure is designed to give you broad exposure to the diverse roles a respiratory therapist plays. A typical rotation schedule will place you in several key areas.
- Adult Critical Care
You will spend significant time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), learning to manage mechanical ventilators for critically ill patients, participating in emergency responses like codes, and performing advanced procedures such as arterial blood gas draws. - Neonatal and Pediatric Care
Working in the Neonatal ICU (NICU) and Pediatric ICU (PICU) requires a different skill set. Here, you’ll manage life support for premature infants and critically ill children, using specialized equipment and learning to adjust therapies for the smallest, most fragile patients. - Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT)
In the PFT lab, you’ll shift from critical care to diagnostics. You will learn to administer a variety of breathing tests that help doctors diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis. This involves coaching patients to perform specific breathing maneuvers correctly. - General and Step-Down Units
On the general medical floors, you will manage routine respiratory care, such as administering aerosolized medications, performing chest physiotherapy, and educating patients on using inhalers and other home-care devices. - Specialty Rotations
Depending on the program and its clinical affiliates, you might also gain experience in emergency departments, sleep medicine labs, or home healthcare settings, further broadening your understanding of the profession.
Programs focus on competency rather than just logging hours. While you can expect to complete several hundred hours of supervised clinical practice, graduation isn’t about time served. It’s about proving you can perform the essential duties of a respiratory therapist safely and effectively. Your progress is tracked through a list of required competencies, each of which must be demonstrated and signed off by a clinical preceptor. These competencies range from basic tasks like patient assessment to complex procedures like initiating and managing non-invasive ventilation.
To prepare you for these real-world encounters, programs rely heavily on simulation labs. In a controlled environment, you’ll practice high-stakes, low-frequency events on sophisticated manikins that can mimic respiratory distress, cardiac arrest, and other emergencies. This allows you to build muscle memory and critical thinking skills without any risk to a patient. Once in the hospital, you’ll work under a preceptor model. This means you are paired one-on-one with an experienced, licensed respiratory therapist who guides your practice, provides immediate feedback, and evaluates your performance. They will verify your competencies on official checklists, which become part of your permanent academic record and proof of your readiness for entry-level practice.
Before you can even step into a clinical setting, you must meet several non-negotiable requirements. These are in place to protect both you and the patients you will serve. Expect to provide documentation for immunizations (including flu, MMR, and Hepatitis B), pass a criminal background check, and undergo a drug screening. You must also hold a current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification from the American Heart Association.
To get the most out of your clinical rotations, treat every shift as a job interview.
Communicate Proactively
Start each day by asking your preceptor about their goals for you. At the end of the shift, ask for feedback on what you did well and where you can improve.
Track Your Progress
Keep a personal log of the competencies you’ve completed and the ones you still need. If you see an opportunity to perform a required skill, speak up and ask your preceptor if you can take the lead.
Practice Reflection
After a challenging patient case or a new procedure, take a few minutes to think about what happened. What went right? What would you do differently next time? This habit builds clinical judgment.
When choosing a respiratory care program, look beyond the classroom. Ask about their clinical outcome metrics. High competency completion rates and positive feedback from local employers are strong indicators of a program with a well-organized, high-quality clinical training component. This hands-on experience is what will ultimately shape you into a confident and capable respiratory therapist.
Credentials Exams and State Licensing Process
After completing your clinical training and graduating from a CoARC-accredited program, your next major step is securing the national credentials and state license required to practice. This phase transforms you from a student into a professional. The process is standardized but requires careful attention to detail.
The journey to becoming a licensed respiratory therapist begins with the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). This organization develops and administers the credentialing examinations that validate your competency. Eligibility to even sit for these exams is directly tied to your graduation from a CoARC-accredited respiratory care program. This is why confirming your program’s accreditation status is so critical from the very beginning.
Your first challenge is the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination. This single exam serves two purposes. Your performance determines which credential you earn initially and whether you can proceed toward the advanced credential.
- If you pass the TMC with the lower cut score, you earn the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential. The CRT is a respected entry-level credential that qualifies you for licensure in most states.
- If you pass the TMC with a higher cut score, you also earn the CRT credential but, more importantly, you become eligible to take the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE).
The ultimate goal for most aspiring therapists is to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), which is the advanced-practitioner credential recognized for a higher level of expertise and often associated with greater responsibilities and career opportunities. To earn the RRT, you must first pass the TMC at the higher cut score and then pass the CSE. The CSE is a very different type of test. It moves beyond multiple-choice questions and presents you with complex patient scenarios designed to assess your decision-making and clinical judgment skills in real-world situations. You will be asked to gather information and make critical choices for simulated patients, demonstrating your ability to manage care effectively.
Once you have earned your NBRC credential, either the CRT or the RRT, you can apply for state licensure. With the exception of Alaska, every state and the District of Columbia requires respiratory therapists to be licensed to practice. While the NBRC provides the national standard for competency, each state sets its own rules for licensure. State respiratory care boards or health departments generally accept your NBRC credential as the primary evidence that you are qualified. However, the application process varies significantly from one state to another. You should expect to submit a formal application, pay a fee, and undergo a criminal background check. Be prepared for this process to take several weeks, so it is wise to start as soon as you have your NBRC exam results. To find the specific requirements for the state where you plan to work, you must visit its official respiratory care board website.
For new graduates, navigating this final stretch can feel overwhelming, but a structured approach helps.
- Confirm Accreditation.
Double-check that your program is listed as CoARC-accredited. This is the key that unlocks the entire NBRC process. - Register with the NBRC.
You can often begin the application process with the NBRC before you officially graduate. Your program director can provide guidance on the timing. - Prepare for Exams.
Develop a dedicated study schedule. Use reputable study guides, practice exams, and review materials. Many graduates find success with resources like Kettering National Seminars or LindseyJones University, which specialize in NBRC exam preparation. - Apply for State Licensure Promptly.
Do not wait until you have a job offer to apply for your state license. Processing times can delay your start date. Have your application ready to submit as soon as you receive confirmation that you have passed your NBRC exams. - Consider Future Moves.
If you think you might practice in multiple states, research the Respiratory Care Licensure Compact. This agreement allows licensed therapists in member states to practice in other participating states without needing to obtain a separate license for each one.
Earning your credentials and license is not the end of the road. Maintaining them is an ongoing professional responsibility. Both your NBRC credentials and your state license must be renewed periodically, typically every one to two years. Renewal almost always requires completing a certain number of continuing education (CE) credits to ensure you stay current with the latest advancements in respiratory care. The NBRC also has specific re-testing policies if you let your credential lapse. Failing to meet renewal requirements can result in disciplinary action or the loss of your ability to practice, so it is vital to track your renewal dates and CE credits carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Respiratory Therapist
Navigating the path to becoming a respiratory therapist can bring up a lot of questions. Here are clear, straightforward answers to some of the most common ones we hear from aspiring students and new graduates.
What degree do I need to become a licensed respiratory therapist?
The minimum requirement to enter the field is an associate’s degree. However, a bachelor’s degree is becoming increasingly preferred by many employers, especially for those interested in future leadership, education, or research roles. The most important factor is that your degree must come from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). Without this, you won’t be eligible for credentialing or licensure.
How long does the training take?
An associate’s degree program typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. A bachelor’s degree program is a traditional four-year path. Both of these timelines include all your academic coursework and the extensive, hands-on clinical rotations required for graduation.
What are the prerequisite courses and minimum GPA?
Prerequisites almost always include foundational science and math courses like biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and college-level algebra. Each program sets its own minimum GPA for admission, but you should aim for a 2.5 or higher to be a competitive applicant. Pay special attention to your grades in the science prerequisites, as programs weigh these heavily. Always confirm the exact requirements on the website of each program you’re considering.
How important is choosing an accredited program?
It is non-negotiable. Graduating from a program accredited by CoARC is the only way to qualify for the national credentialing exams administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Passing these exams is a mandatory step for getting licensed in nearly every state. You should verify any program’s accreditation status on the official CoARC website before applying.
What’s the real difference between the CRT and RRT credentials?
Think of the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) as the entry-level credential and the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) as the advanced, professional standard. While some graduates may start with a CRT, the vast majority of employers today require the RRT credential for hiring and advancement. Earning your RRT demonstrates a higher level of clinical knowledge and skill, which leads to better job prospects, greater autonomy, and higher earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $80,450 in May 2024, and holding the RRT credential is a key factor in reaching that figure. You can check the latest salary data from the BLS directly.
How much clinical experience is required during the program?
You will complete hundreds of hours of supervised clinical practice as an integral part of your education. These rotations happen in real-world settings like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. CoARC sets the minimum required hours, though the exact number can differ between associate’s and bachelor’s programs. This isn’t an internship you find on your own; it’s a structured and mandatory component of your curriculum.
What are the typical costs, and is financial aid available?
Costs vary significantly. An associate’s degree from a community college might range from $8,000 to $25,000 total, while a bachelor’s degree at a university can cost $40,000 or more. The good news is that most students qualify for financial aid. The first step is always filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). You should also actively search for scholarships from your college, local healthcare organizations, and the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC).
How do I prepare for the NBRC exams?
Your program will dedicate significant time to preparing you for the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Exam and the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE). Beyond your coursework, many graduates find success by using review guides and practice exams from trusted sources. Forming study groups with classmates is also incredibly helpful. The best strategy is to start early, create a consistent study plan, and take as many practice tests as possible to get comfortable with the format and timing.
How does state licensure work, and how do I check my state’s rules?
After earning your NBRC credential, you must apply for a license in the state where you intend to work (all states except Alaska require it). This process involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and undergoing a background check. Each state has its own specific rules and procedures. The most reliable source of information is the official state licensing board. A quick search for “[Your State] Board of Respiratory Care” will lead you to their website, where you can find applications and a full list of requirements.
What career and specialty certifications are available after licensure?
Once you are an RRT, you can advance your career by earning specialty credentials from the NBRC. Popular choices include the Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) for working with infants and children, the Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS) for complex ICU cases, and the Sleep Disorders Specialist (SDS) for diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. These certifications validate your expertise and can open doors to specialized, higher-paying roles.
Is a background check required?
Yes, expect a criminal background check as part of both your program’s clinical placement process and your state licensure application. Certain convictions can be a barrier to licensure, so it is vital to be upfront. If you have any concerns, contact your state’s respiratory care board early to understand their policies.
Final Conclusions and Next Steps
You’ve navigated the core components of becoming a respiratory therapist, from understanding the different degree paths to the specifics of credentialing and licensure. Now, it’s time to bring it all together into a clear, actionable plan. The journey from aspiring student to licensed professional is a structured one, built on four essential pillars: graduating from an accredited program, mastering clinical skills, earning your national credentials, and securing a state license. Each step builds on the last, creating a solid foundation for a successful and rewarding career. Think of this final chapter as your personal roadmap to get started.
To help you organize your efforts, here is a practical checklist of the major milestones you’ll need to achieve.
-
Confirm Program Accreditation
Before you even think about applying, your first step is to verify that any program you consider is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). This is non-negotiable. Graduating from a CoARC-accredited program is the only way to become eligible for the NBRC credentialing exams and, subsequently, state licensure. Accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous national standards for education and prepares you properly for the profession. -
Complete All Prerequisites
Every respiratory therapy program has a list of required prerequisite courses, typically focused on science and math. These courses, like anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and microbiology, provide the fundamental knowledge you’ll need to succeed in the core curriculum. Pay close attention to the minimum grade requirements for each course, as programs are often competitive. -
Budget for Your Education and Clinicals
Tuition is only part of the financial picture. You’ll need to budget for textbooks, lab fees, scrubs, and potentially transportation to various clinical sites. Other costs include NBRC exam fees, state licensure application fees, and background checks. Planning for these expenses early will prevent surprises and allow you to focus on your studies. -
Prepare for and Schedule Your NBRC Exams
Your goal is to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). This requires passing two exams from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). First is the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination. Based on your score, you may earn the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential and become eligible to take the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE). Passing the CSE is the final step to earning the coveted RRT credential. -
Apply for State Licensure
With your RRT credential in hand, the final hurdle is obtaining a license from the state where you plan to work. Every state except Alaska has its own requirements, but they all require passing the NBRC exams. The process typically involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and passing a criminal background check. Always check with your specific state’s board of respiratory care for their exact procedures.
Thinking about this process in terms of a timeline can make it feel more manageable. Here’s how you can break down your actions.
Short-Term Actions (The Next 1-3 Months)
This phase is all about research and validation. Request official program outcomes from the schools you’re interested in, specifically their NBRC pass rates, job placement rates, and attrition rates. These numbers give you a clear picture of a program’s quality. If possible, arrange to visit the campus and its clinical affiliate sites. Speaking directly with faculty, program directors, and current students can provide invaluable insight into the program’s culture and expectations.
Medium-Term Planning (The Next 3-9 Months)
Once you’ve chosen your target programs, the focus shifts to application and preparation. This is the time to apply for financial aid by completing the FAFSA and searching for scholarships specific to healthcare and respiratory care. As you complete your prerequisites, begin building a study plan for your NBRC exams. Don’t wait until after graduation to start thinking about them. Familiarize yourself with the exam formats and content outlines available on the NBRC website. Developing strong study habits now will pay dividends later.
Long-Term Career Development (Post-Graduation and Beyond)
Your education doesn’t end with your degree. Licensure requires ongoing continuing education to stay current with the latest medical advancements. This is also the time to think about career advancement. Earning specialty credentials, such as the Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) or Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS), can open doors to advanced roles and higher pay. Many RRTs also choose to complete a bachelor’s degree completion program to move into leadership, education, or research positions.
The path to becoming a respiratory therapist is demanding, but the rewards are immense. You will be entering a profession that is not only stable but also growing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for respiratory therapists will grow 12 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. With a median annual wage of around $80,450 as of May 2024, it offers a solid livelihood. More importantly, it offers the profound satisfaction of making a tangible difference in patients’ lives every single day.
As you move forward, remember to always verify information with the primary sources. Check the CoARC website for accredited programs, the NBRC for the latest credentialing information, and your state’s licensing board for the most current rules and regulations. Your diligence now will ensure a smooth and successful entry into this vital healthcare field.
References
- Respiratory Therapist Salary Guide 2025 – Remitly — This guide discusses salary expectations for respiratory therapists, which can vary based on location, experience, and credentials.
- Career Outlook for Respiratory Therapists in 2025 — An overview of the career outlook, noting that salary potential can grow based on education and specialization.
- Respiratory Therapists – Bureau of Labor Statistics — Detailed occupational employment and wage statistics from the BLS for May 2023.
- Quick Facts – Respiratory Therapists – AARC — The American Association for Respiratory Care provides facts on pay and job outlook, projecting strong growth for the profession.
- Respiratory Therapists : Occupational Outlook Handbook — The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $80,450 in May 2024. Employment is projected to grow 12 percent from 2024 to 2034.
- Respiratory Therapist Salary | 2026 | Nurse.Org — This resource analyzes salary data, confirming the national average respiratory therapist salary is $80,450 per year per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Legal Disclaimers & Brand Notices
The content of this article is intended for informational and educational purposes only, specifically regarding career pathways, professional requirements, and the scope of practice for respiratory therapists. It discusses specific medical procedures, equipment, and clinical scenarios for educational context. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before undertaking any medical procedure or treatment plan.
All product names, logos, and brands mentioned (including references to organizations like CoARC, NBRC, and AARC) are the property of their respective owners. Use of these names, logos, and brands does not imply endorsement or affiliation.

