Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy
Program Overview
UC’s Bachelor’s in Respiratory Therapy degree prepares professional Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) and Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) with additional knowledge, skills, and attributes in leadership management, education, and research.
What is Respiratory Therapy?
Respiratory Therapy refers to the care of patients who are diagnosed with diseases related to the lungs and respiratory system, including those suffering from COPD, asthma, problems from lung cancer, and more. Respiratory therapists work in a variety of settings – from hospitals to home-based care – performing assessments, disease management, patient education, and more.
A career in respiratory therapy is ideal for compassionate individuals interested in lung-related healthcare. Graduates of the University of Cincinnati’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to take on leadership roles in the world of respiratory care, from assisting patients with lung conditions to educating family members of patients about how to offer care.
Program Highlights
High Quality Education
- All of UC's programs (on campus and online) are led by nationally-recognized, award-winning faculty
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)
- A complete educational pathway starting with bachelor's into the Master of Science in Respiratory Therapy
Flexibility
- Easy credit transfer
- Fully Online (No Campus Visits)
- Complete in as little as 5 semesters
Support from Application through Graduation
At UC, you’ll have a full support team behind you:
Enrollment Services Advisor: Your partner through the application process, getting enrolled, and starting your program
Student Success Coordinator: Helping you prepare for classes and stay on track
Access to Resources: Access to university resources that will support you through your program including online learning expectations and resources, health and wellness resources, and academic support
Curriculum
The BS in Respiratory Therapy is a completely online program that trains students in all the necessary skills, knowledge and technical expertise required for Respiratory Therapists to advance their careers including management opportunities, graduate school, and specialized clinical practice.
Core Courses: 28 credits
Advanced Courses: 22 credits
All core courses must be completed prior to enrolling in advanced courses
Accelerated Option
For students who plan to continue on to our MSRT (Master of Science in Respiratory Therapy) program, there is an accelerated option that allows students to take some of their core MSRT courses before they graduate with their BSRT. This allows students to start their graduate degree while still paying the undergraduate rate for classes. For more information, talk to an Enrollment Services Advisor today.
| Course | Title/Description | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| RSTH 3001 | Community Health Problems and Practices This course focuses on determinants of the health of individuals and the challenges faced by communities as they work to improve the health of their residents. Students develop plans to maximize the use of community resources to address both acute and chronic respiratory conditions. |
3 |
| RSTH 3002 | Healthcare Documentation and Communication This course is designed to improve writing competence as a healthcare leader, clinician or educator. Focus is on the construction, evaluation and organization of written communication in the healthcare setting with an emphasis on Respiratory Therapy. Topics include: written medical documentation; article and proposal writing, using APA style for citations and references; patient education materials; etc. Students also review the basics of clear communication, both written and oral. |
3 |
| RSTH 3004 | Integration of Delivery of Respiratory Therapy The course provides students with an overview of how the healthcare system works in the United States. Specifically, the focus of the course is the role of the respiratory therapist within the healthcare system. The differences between public and private healthcare insurance are evaluated throughout the course. Students gain insight into healthcare from both a clinical and management aspect. The course provides the student with the tools to function more efficiently as part of an integrated healthcare team. |
3 |
| RSTH 3010 | Caregiving in the Respiratory Therapy Professions This course develops expertise in the science and art of caregiving from the perspective of the healthcare professional. Students study age-specific care issues, culturally specific caregiving, compassion fatigue, family interaction and family-centered care, and death and dying. Caregiving issues directly related to patients with respiratory disease will be emphasized. |
3 |
| RSTH 3040 | Management in Respiratory Therapy This course focuses on the basics of healthcare management, including budgeting and financial management, data management, managing in clinical settings, and resource utilization. Respiratory Therapy students learn how to assess healthcare information systems and database management systems. |
3 |
| RSTH 3050 | Aging and Respiratory Therapy This course provides Respiratory Therapy students with an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of gerontology. Topics include theories of aging, health and illness in later life, diversity and aging, and bio-psycho/social and spiritual aspects of growing old. Respiratory Therapy content includes the biology of aging on lung function and working with older patients with multiple impairments. |
3 |
| RSTH 3065 | Disease Management/Patient Education Students in this course will learn to communicate with patients regarding their disease state. By developing a detailed knowledge of respiratory disease and treatment options, future practitioners will be prepared to counsel and advise patients on how to deal with their disease through the use of diet, exercise, medication regimes, etc. |
3 |
| RSTH 3080 | Mid-Collegiate Interprofessional Touch Point Conference This course will focus on the basics of healthcare management, including budgeting and financial management, data management, managing in clinical settings, and resource utilization. Respiratory Therapy students will learn how to assess healthcare information systems and database management systems. |
0 |
| RSTH 4060 | Research Method and Analysis Students review basic statistical models and inference applied to problems in healthcare, with an emphasis on Respiratory Therapy. Students also develop an understanding of research protocols and evaluation, critically analyze research data, and develop skills in interpreting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative research in Respiratory Therapy. Topics include IRBs and clinical trials. |
9 |
| Course | Title/Description | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| RSTH 4001 | Research Methods & Analysis Students will review basic statistical models and inference applied to problems in health care, with an emphasis on Respiratory Therapy. Students will develop an understanding of research protocols and evaluation, critically analyze research data, and develop skills in interpreting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative research in Respiratory Therapy. Topics will include IRBs and clinical trials. By completing this course, students will be prepared to write an abstract, develop a proposal, and be capable of undertaking a significant research project. |
5 |
| RSTH 4030 | Alternative Practices and Current Trends in Respiratory Care A study of the Respiratory Therapist role in other healthcare areas and an analysis of current administrative, legal, regulatory, professional issues, and current trends which influence the Respiratory Care Profession. |
4 |
| RSTH 4050 | Advanced Respiratory Therapy/Leadership & Project Management This course focuses on strategic, operational, and project management topics in the healthcare/respiratory care field, with an emphasis on increasing efficiency and quality of care. Topics include: allocating staff and resources effectively; assessing financial and regulatory implications from a business perspective; developing, negotiating, and managing comprehensive programs; and leading and motivating effective teams. |
|
| RSTH 4070 | Respiratory Therapy Specialty I w/ Observation An internship that will focus on specialty disciplines within respiratory therapy that potentially will foster an interest for the student to sit for one of NBRC or its affiliates specialty exams (NPS, CPFT, RPFT, SDS, ACCS, or AE-C). The course is designed to promote interest for RRTs in the specialty practices of respiratory therapy. The internship design and placement will be determined by the interest area of the student (neonatal, pediatrics, sleep disorders, asthma, diagnostics, or critical care). The students will complete 20 hours of observation in their chosen specialty of respiratory therapy. The observation can be performed at the student’s place of employment as long as it is a specialty area in which the students does not currently work and during non-working hours. Paid work time cannot count as observation time. The program director will help the student arrange an alternate observation site other than the site of employment within close proximity to where the student lives if necessary. In addition to other assignments, the student will develop a comprehensive reflective journal detailing their experiences as the final project for the course. |
3 |
| RSTH 4075 | Respiratory Therapy Specialty II Registered Respiratory Therapist can practice in expanded respiratory care areas that require additional training, education, credentials, and knowledge that goes beyond what is taught in an introductory respiratory care program. This course will focus on the expanded roles that Respiratory Therapists can take beyond traditional in-patient hospital care. Students will identify the benefits of these expanded roles and how these roles impact patient care. |
3 |
| RSTH 5001 | Respiratory Therapy Capstone This culminating course will enable senior-level Respiratory Therapy students to develop a proposal and complete a project or research paper based upon one of their areas of interest (Disease Management, Leadership and Project Management, or Education and Research). Presentations of completed papers or projects will be delivered by the student to selected Respiratory Therapy managers/specialists at a pre-determined site. |
3 |
Admission Requirements
Prerequisites
- Earned associate degree in respiratory care or respiratory therapy from a CoARC accredited institution.
- During the admissions review process, UC evaluates previous coursework to determine completion of the program’s general education requirements. Applicants should have completed the majority of required general education courses with a grade of C- or better to be eligible for admission.
*If students have a degree from a nationally accredited CoARC institution, their transcripts will be eligible for review. Fill out the form above to be contacted by an enrollment advisor who will be able to answer any further questions.
Application Process
Complete the online application and submit the application fee.
Standard Application Fees*:
- $50.00 for domestic applicants to most degree programs
- $100.00 for international applicants to most degree programs
- Fee waivers are automatically applied for applicants who:
- are currently serving in the US armed forces
- are veterans of the US armed forces
*Application fees for online programs are waived through Spring 2027 for all applicants.
If you’ve earned an associate degree from a CoARC-accredited respiratory therapy program, your previously completed coursework will be reviewed for transfer toward your bachelor’s degree.
UC now evaluates all college-level credit, not just coursework from nationally accredited institutions. Each course is individually reviewed for content, rigor, and alignment with the respiratory therapy curriculum to determine transfer eligibility.
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) or
- Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) who is eligible to take the RRT Clinical Simulation Exam. For questions regarding the NBRC Clinical Simulation Exam admission requirements see the NBRC CSE webpage. Students who enroll as a CRT must earn the RRT credential before enrolling in advanced courses in the program. The program will provide CRT students with the Kettering National Seminars RRT Home Study guide as well as Clinical Simulation Exam reimbursement.
Have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in all college level coursework
After submitting your application form, all applicants are required to have official transcripts sent directly to University of Cincinnati in order to be eligible for admissions review.
- First-Year and Transfer Applicants with Fewer Than 24 Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College:
- Order official transcripts from your high school and all prior colleges (if applicable) for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati.
- Transfer Applicants with 24+ Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College:
- Order official transcripts from all prior colleges for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati.
- You are exempt from the High School transcript requirement, this item will be removed from your application checklist once your college documents are received.
Please review the section below for guidance on how to submit your transcripts.
Online transcript request systems are the preferred method to deliver official transcripts electronically. To see if your transcript(s) can be ordered electronically, visit the links below and search for your previous school(s).
- Parchment
- Please select “University of Cincinnati – Main Campus” as the recipient of your transcript.
- National Student Clearinghouse
- Please have your transcript sent directly to admissions@uc.edu.
If you do not see your past school(s) listed on either site, please contact the school(s) directly to determine their ordering process.
If a physical copy must be sent, DO NOT request it be delivered to you. It must be sent directly from your prior school to the following address:
University of Cincinnati
Office of Admissions
PO Box 210091
Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0091
Due to this program’s professional licensure requirement, students are not eligible to complete the program while located outside of the United States.
Applicants with college coursework completed outside the United States are required to provide a course-by-course foreign credential evaluation for each college or university you attended outside the United States. This evaluation must be obtained from a service listed on the NACES member website.
Application Deadlines
| Term | Application Deadline | Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
Spring 2027 Summer 2027 Fall 2027 |
November 15, 2026 March 15, 2027 July 15, 2027 |
January 11, 2027 May 10, 2027 August 23, 2027 |
Tuition & Fees
The University of Cincinnati's online programs allow students to pursue degrees without having to quit their jobs. Our online courses offer the same quality education found on campus in a modern format that fits students’ tight budgets and busy schedules.
The University of Cincinnati's online course fees differ depending on the program.
To view tuition information and program costs, visit the Online Program Fees page.
Accreditation & Rankings
- The University of Cincinnati and all of its regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
*CoARC Accreditation: The Respiratory Therapy, 500015, Bachelor of Science, University of Cincinnati holds Continuing Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (www.coarc.com).
The goal of the Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Sciences Program is to provide graduates of entry into respiratory care professional practice degree programs with additional knowledge, skills, and attributes in leadership, management, education, and research that will enable them to meet their current professional goals and prepare them for practice as advanced degree respiratory therapists.
CoARC accredits respiratory therapy education programs in the United States. To achieve this end, it utilizes an ‘outcomes-based process. Programmatic outcomes are performance indicators that reflect the extent to which the educational goals of the program are achieved and by which program effectiveness is documented.
The program’s coursework and experiences emphasize the technical and academic competencies required of a respiratory therapist as well as the ethic and professionalism outlined by The American Association for Respiratory Care.
Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:
- Demonstrate entry-level competencies in the domains of management, ethics, community engagement and project development as they relate to the discipline of respiratory therapy.
- Develop and/or disseminate scientific information for the general public and the academic community in respiratory therapy practice, administration, and research.
- Read, evaluate, and integrate information from current scientific and popular literature within the discipline’s content area.
- Plan, execute, and evaluate, treatment protocols that enhance the departments and patients that they serve.
- Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and professional service and leadership.
Testimonials
"The flexibility of the program allows me to get a degree while on active military duty."
A. Pickett
BS Respiratory Therapy
“What I am learning and what I have learned is WELL worth the hard work and sacrifice of time and money. I am so excited to be part of the promotion of this field as well. I believe in our field, and I am an eager advocate for the requirement that all RTs hold a bachelor's degree.”
Danna W.
BS Respiratory Therapy
Ready to get started?
We offer over 130 degrees from undergraduate to doctoral programs. Each program is supported by a team of Enrollment Services Advisors (ESAs) who are here to help answer any questions you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Respiratory Therapy Degree
FAQs
What is a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy?
A bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy is an advanced college program for professionals who treat patients with lung and breathing problems. It teaches advanced skills in patient care, leadership, and the use of medical technology to help patients with respiratory issues.
The UC bachelor’s in respiratory therapy prepares licensed professionals with the leadership, management, and research skills needed for career growth. This program builds on your existing clinical experience to help you advance in the healthcare field.
Is a bachelor’s in respiratory therapy worth it?
Earning a bachelor's degree as a respiratory therapist helps healthcare workers advance to higher-level positions and gain specialized knowledge. It often leads to more responsibilities in management or teaching, which helps grow your long-term career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts the Respiratory Therapist occupation to grow 12% between 2024 and 2033, which is higher than the national average.
UC's program focuses on professional value and real-world relevance to help graduates reach advanced goals in the respiratory care field. The curriculum is designed to give you the strategic skills needed for success in modern medical environments.
How long is a respiratory therapy bachelor’s program?
Most students take about two years to finish a respiratory care bachelor's program if they already have an associate degree. The actual time depends on how many classes you take at once and how many credits you transfer from your previous school.
Students at UC can complete the BS in Respiratory Therapy in as little as five semesters. This fast-paced option helps you earn your degree quickly while continuing to work in the field.
What are the prerequisites for respiratory therapy programs?
To start a BS in respiratory therapy program, you usually need an associate degree in respiratory care from an accredited school. Most programs also require you to have professional credentials to prove your skills in the field.
UC requires applicants to have an associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. You must also be a Registered Respiratory Therapist or a Certified Respiratory Therapist who is eligible for the RRT exam.
What jobs can you get with a respiratory therapy degree?
Graduates with a bachelor’s in respiratory therapy can work as clinical specialists, department managers, or health educators in hospitals and clinics. This degree also prepares you to work in research or even teach the next generation of therapists.
The UC degree focuses on leadership, management, and specialized clinical practice to prepare students for diverse career paths. Graduates are equipped to take on roles in disease management, project development, and academic settings.
What is the difference between RRT and CRT?
A Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) has passed the basic entry-level exam for the profession. A Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) has completed more advanced testing and is often better suited for leadership roles in a hospital setting.
UC's program is designed for both RRTs and CRTs who want to advance their education. CRT students are supported as they work toward earning their RRT credential before starting advanced coursework.
Are online respiratory therapy programs accredited by CoARC?
Many top online programs hold accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). This seal of approval means the classes meet high-quality standards for the medical industry.
The University of Cincinnati’s Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy holds Continuing Accreditation from CoARC. This ensures that your education aligns with the professional ethics and technical skills required by the American Association for Respiratory Care.
Online Respiratory Therapy Degree
FAQs
Can I earn a respiratory therapy bachelor's degree online?
Yes, many schools offer a respiratory therapist bachelor's degree online that you can complete entirely over the internet. These programs are made for busy professionals who need to study while they keep working their regular jobs.
UC provides a completely online program that trains students in the expertise required to advance their healthcare careers. This format allows you to gain new skills without needing to visit a physical campus.
Can I work full-time while earning my bachelor's online?
Online programs are created to be flexible so you can balance your studies with a full-time job. You can usually log in and complete your assignments at times that fit your daily schedule.
The online respiratory therapy courses at UC allow students to pursue their degrees without having to quit their current jobs. This flexibility is perfect for active professionals and those serving in the military who need to manage their time carefully.
Are online respiratory therapy programs 100% remote?
Many programs are designed so that all classes and coursework are done online from your own home. Since these programs are often for people who are already working as therapists, they usually do not require you to go to a classroom.
UC offers a fully online program with no campus visits required. This 100% remote layout is ideal for therapists who need to manage their education alongside professional duties.
Can I complete a respiratory therapy degree without traveling to campus?
It is possible to finish your respiratory therapist BS degree without ever needing to step foot on a college campus. Technology allows you to watch lectures, turn in papers, and talk to your teachers from anywhere with an internet connection.
Students in UC's Online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy can graduate without traveling to Cincinnati. The program is built for convenience, providing all the resources you need in a digital format.
Do online respiratory programs accept transfer credits for therapists?
Most schools will look at the college classes you have already taken and give you credit toward your Bachelor of Respiratory Therapy. This process helps you avoid repeating subjects you already know and can help you graduate sooner.
UC offers easy credit transfer and individually reviews every course for alignment with the respiratory therapy curriculum. This review ensures that your prior learning and experience are recognized and applied toward your degree.
Are online respiratory therapy degrees recognized by employers?
Employers recognize degrees from accredited online programs just as they do from traditional on-campus schools. As long as the program is high quality and follows industry standards, your degree will be a valuable part of your professional background.
UC's nationally recognized faculty leads both on-campus and online programs, ensuring the same high quality for all students. This academic excellence means your degree carries the prestige of the University of Cincinnati wherever you work.
How do remote students complete respiratory therapy clinical requirements?
Since most online bachelor programs are for people already working in the field, they focus on advanced theory and leadership. Any observation hours or projects can usually be done at your current workplace or a nearby facility.
In the UC program, students complete a respiratory therapy specialty observation that can be performed at their place of employment during non-working hours. This allows you to gain experience in new areas like neonatal or critical care without traveling far.
UC Online
FAQs
What makes UC Online different?
UC Online combines the flexibility of online learning with the quality and reputation of the University of Cincinnati. As one of the first universities to offer online courses, UC has decades of experience designing programs that help busy professionals and lifelong learners succeed.
What really sets UC Online apart is the personalized support you'll receive throughout your educational journey. From application through graduation, you'll have access to a dedicated support team (including your own Student Success Coordinator) who can help you navigate coursework, connect with resources, and stay on track. Combined with nationally recognized faculty, flexible learning options, and career-focused programs, UC Online is designed to help you reach your goals without putting your life on hold.
Will my degree say “UC Online” or “University of Cincinnati Online”?
No. Your diploma and transcript will be issued by the University of Cincinnati and will not specify that your program was completed online. You'll earn the same respected University of Cincinnati credential while enjoying the flexibility of online learning.
How do online classes at UC Online work?
Most UC Online students complete their coursework asynchronously, meaning they can learn when it's most convenient for their schedule rather than attending classes at a set time. This gives you the flexibility to earn your degree while balancing work and personal commitments.
Some programs may include scheduled online meetings or hands-on experiences, but these vary by program and are clearly communicated on each program page.
Can I work full-time while earning my degree?
Absolutely. Many UC Online students balance full-time careers while earning their degree or certificate. Our programs are designed with working professionals in mind, making it possible to continue your education without putting your career on hold.
Whether you're looking to advance in your current role or prepare for a new opportunity, UC Online can help you achieve your goals while continuing to work full-time.
What kind of support can I expect as a UC Online student?
At UC Online, you're never on your own. Every online student is supported by a dedicated Student Success Coordinator who provides personalized guidance from enrollment through graduation. Whether you need help navigating coursework, connecting with campus resources, or staying on track, you'll have someone in your corner.
Beyond one-on-one guidance, you’ll also have access to academic advising, Career Services, technical support, library resources, and the many services available across the University of Cincinnati.
What financial aid or scholarship opportunities are available for online students?
UC Online students may be eligible for many of the same financial aid opportunities as on-campus students, including federal financial aid, loans, grants, and select scholarships. The University of Cincinnati also offers scholarships for eligible online students and programs.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities vary based on your eligibility and program. If you have questions about paying for your education, connect with a UC Online enrollment advisor. We can help you explore your options, guide you through the process, and connect you with the appropriate resources.
How do I apply to UC Online?
The first step to apply to UC Online is to complete an online application for your program of interest. Depending on the program, you may also need to submit supporting materials such as transcripts or other admissions documents.
Need help along the way? A UC Online enrollment advisor can answer your questions and guide you through each step of the application process. Connect with your enrollment advisor today.