Careers: Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy

Careers: Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy
03.15.2025
50
05.16.2025
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Money Icon Career Outlook

The United States is currently witnessing a boom in demand for knowledgeable respiratory therapists. This need derives mainly from an aging population and poor air quality. Respiratory therapists are required to help patients cope with, recover from and find comfort with their conditions.

The need for kind, caring respiratory therapists and healthcare professionals are continuing to grow. Today, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute estimates there are 12 million patients suffering from an undiagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as 12 million diagnosed patients.

What can a Bachelor’s in Respiratory Therapy do?

Respiratory therapists work with patients to care for diseases related to the lungs and respiratory system, most notably with those suffering from COPD. Respiratory therapists can work in clinical settings, hospitals, hospices or even home-based care situations.

Professionals working in home-based care cover a range of duties, including working with patients to help alleviate pain, as well as teaching them how to use technical equipment and instructing family members or other caregivers on best practices.

Other responsibilities include assessment, disease management, documentation, patient education, and caregiver training. In addition, you must have the technical knowledge of how to set up, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment with limited resources while in a patient’s home.

The Bachelor in Respiratory Therapy program is designed for professionals that have an associate’s degree and have hands-on experience in respiratory therapy. A Bachelor’s degree will help advance your career or position you for a Master’s degree.

By the numbers

“The rate of employment for respiratory therapists is expected to grow 23% from 2016 to 2026 — much faster than the overall average for all industries."
Bureau of Labor Statistics
“As of May 2017, the median salary for respiratory therapists was $59,710. Qualified professionals who hold a bachelor’s degree and a leadership or management position may expect to earn a slightly higher annual salary.”
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Student Testimonials
Arika Testimonial
“The flexibility of the program allows me to get a degree while on active military duty.”

A. Pickett
BS Respiratory Therapy, Current Student