5 Benefits of Earning a Bachelor’s in Respiratory Therapy

When considering a bachelor’s degree and your future career, making an impact is a top priority for you. The global COVID-19 pandemic showed us that the seemingly impossible can happen — and the essential role healthcare professionals have in our society today.

As you explore a degree in respiratory therapy, the potential for advancement, leadership, and impact is limitless. Plus, you’ll be able to meet your current professional goals and be prepared to practice as an advanced-degree respiratory therapist.

Respiratory therapists are in high demand offering you stability in your future career as well. The pandemic aside, our lungs are susceptible to many more conditions stemming from declining air quality and other factors. According to the American Lung Association, respiratory diseases affect more than 34 million people in the United States.

What Is a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy?

UC’s online Bachelor’s in Respiratory Therapy is a 2+2 completer degree program that prepares students to become skilled respiratory therapists. This comprehensive program combines coursework in respiratory care, human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology with practical clinical training.

Respiratory therapists play a vital role in the healthcare system, specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders. They work with advanced medical equipment to manage chronic conditions like asthma and COPD, provide critical care to patients in emergencies, and offer life-saving interventions in intensive care units.

Graduates of this degree program are equipped with the clinical expertise and knowledge to excel in various healthcare settings, making a significant impact on patient health and well-being while also opening doors for career advancement and specialization within the field.

What Are the Benefits of a Degree in Respiratory Therapy?

Earning a degree in respiratory therapy opens doors to a rewarding career in healthcare with many long-term benefits.

Benefit #1: Make a Difference in Patient Outcomes

Respiratory therapists have a direct impact on patients’ lives. You help them breathe more easily, manage chronic conditions, and provide support during critical moments. Knowing your work contributes to healthier outcomes and quality of life can be one of the most significant rewards of a career in respiratory therapy.

Benefit #2: Job Stability and Flexibility

The demand for respiratory therapists work is expected to grow due to an aging population and the prevalence of respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, influenza, respiratory infections, COVID-19, and lung cancer.

Graduates can expect strong job opportunities and stability in the healthcare industry. Plus, you can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare agencies, and others.

Benefit #3: Advanced Clinical Skills

During your respiratory therapy education, you’ll get equipped with advanced clinical skills through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Our comprehensive curriculum teaches the foundations of complex respiratory conditions and treatment. During your hands-on clinical rotations, you’ll apply that essential knowledge in real-world scenarios and gain expertise in patient assessment, technology proficiency, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Benefit #4: Career Advancement and Higher Earning Potential

Graduates earn competitive salaries with the median annual wage for respiratory therapists at $77,960. This is ideal for financial stability and the potential for career advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of employment in the respiratory therapy field is expected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032—faster than the overall U.S. job market.

A degree can also open doors to advanced roles and specializations. Advanced positions often come with greater responsibilities and higher salaries.

Benefit #5: Professional Recognition and Leadership Opportunities

Building your body of knowledge in respiratory care can boost your professional reputation. You’ll also find that a degree program often involves research components, which can lead to opportunities for publishing articles in professional journals. As a published respiratory therapist, you’ll be building a reputation as a credible and trustworthy expert.

As you gain even more experience and expertise, you can take on leadership roles, such as a pulmonary department director, pulmonary department manager, respiratory therapy educator, pulmonary logistics manager, and more. These positions allow you to influence practice standards, mentor junior staff, and contribute to the profession’s growth.

Can I Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy Online?

Yes, UC’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy degree is earned completely online. Choose from a full-time or part-time schedule and three start dates throughout the year. Plus, the degree program can be completed in less than two years.

UC’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy is also a 2+2 completer degree. That means if you already have an associate degree, you can transition into completing your bachelor’s degree easily.

All of your classes will be taught by faculty members who are nationally recognized experts in respiratory healthcare.

What Is the Career Outlook for a Respiratory Therapist?

The need for respiratory therapists is expected to remain strong, offering excellent job prospects for those entering or already in the field.

Several factors contribute to the growing need for respiratory therapists including advancements in treatment and increased awareness in the importance of respiratory health. Thanks to technological advancements in medical treatments and equipment, the scope of respiratory therapy continues to expand. There has never been a better time to continue your education and take advantage of those developments.

What Skills Will I Need as a Respiratory Therapist?

As a crucial part of a healthcare team, you’ll need clinical skills as well as soft skills to succeed in your career. Are you empathetic, compassionate, and prepared to provide emotional support during challenging times? If you’re already embedded in the field, you know better than anyone the importance of delivering high-quality care. A big part of that is also continuing education.

Take the Next Step

When you enroll in the University of Cincinnati’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program, you’ll be prepared to succeed in respiratory care with technical and academic competencies, ethics, and professionalism. But you’ll also continue developing communication, critical thinking, attention to detail, and adaptability — all of which are essential as you advance in your career.

Ready to get started? Contact an enrollment advisor today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the benefits of being a respiratory therapist?

Being a respiratory therapist offers a rewarding career where you can make a significant impact on patient outcomes, enjoy job stability, and have opportunities for advancement. You’ll gain advanced clinical skills and the potential for leadership roles, all while contributing to the well-being of those with respiratory conditions.

What is the best degree for a respiratory therapist?

The best degree for a respiratory therapist is a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy. This degree provides comprehensive training in respiratory care, human anatomy, and clinical skills, preparing you for a successful career with opportunities for specialization and advancement.