Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

The best online respiratory therapy degrees prepare you for a specialized career in a rapidly growing field with a competitive salary.
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Updated July 3, 2023

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Respiratory therapists are in high demand. And the best part? You only need an associate degree to get started in this rewarding career.

Respiratory therapists care for people who have difficulties breathing, because of undeveloped lungs, asthma, influenza, pneumonia, or similar conditions.

Our guide assesses academic quality, reputation, affordability, and programs to identify the top online respiratory therapy programs. Explore this exciting career today.

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees of 2023

Read Our Methodology Here

#1 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $390 full-time; $455 part-time

Out-of-State | $390 full-time; $455 part-time

Credits to Graduate: 120, including up to 75% in transfer credits

Liberty University, based in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers a fully online bachelor of science in respiratory therapy (BST) program for registered respiratory therapists (RRTs) with associate degrees. The RRT-to-BST program takes an average of two years to complete. The curriculum emphasizes advanced ventilation modes, cardiopulmonary interactions, and maximizing patient recovery.

You develop a project or research proposal in respiratory therapy administration, clinical practice, or education and critically appraise literature related to advanced respiratory therapy.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

University of Kansas

  • Lawrence, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care

Avg. Cost per Credit: 

In-State | $342

Out-of-State | $342

Credits to Graduate: 120, including up to 90 transfer credits

The University of Kansas offers an online advancement program for registered respiratory therapists (RRT) interested in earning a bachelor's in respiratory therapy. In addition to RRT credentials, you need an associate in respiratory therapy from an accredited school and program, a 2.5 GPA, and 53 credits of prerequisite coursework in science, math, and the humanities.

The curriculum includes specialty credential preparation courses, individual special studies or projects, and a capstone project in your clinical specialty areas.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,092
Out-of-state
$26,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,989
Out-of-state
$23,951
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
26,744
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Nova Southeastern University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit: 

In-State | $1,196

Out-of-State | $1,196

Credits to Graduate: 120, including Block Grant and prerequisite credits

If you're a practicing registered respiratory therapist (RRTs), you can earn your bachelor of science in respiratory therapy online from Nova Southeastern University. The Fort Lauderdale-based, post-professional program offers in-depth courses in sleep medicine, evidence-based practice, and legal issues.

You can access coursework 24/7, hone skills through internships, practicums, or scientific investigations, and finish in 18 months. RRTs may qualify for 45-credit Block Grants.  

You must have National Board for Respiratory Care registration and RRT licensing, C grades in liberal arts prerequisites, and a 2.0 GPA before applying. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,370
Out-of-state
$32,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,618
Out-of-state
$20,618
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
20,888
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Carlow University

  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $495

Out-of-State | $495

Credits to Graduate: 30

Pittsburgh's Carlow University offers a fully online bachelor's in respiratory therapy degree completion program with no fieldwork requirements. You can complete the asynchronous program in 18 months. The curriculum centers on managerial skills, evidence-based research, new pathology and pharmacology, and patient safety improvements.

Carlow accepts applications from registered respiratory therapists (RRTs) and certified respiratory therapists (CRTs). Admitted CRTs must earn their RRT credentials before their second semester. You must also have a 2.0 GPA and a respiratory care associate degree from an accredited school.   

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,542
Out-of-state
$30,542
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,844
Out-of-state
$19,844
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
1,976
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Loma Linda University

  • Loma Linda, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $450

Out-of-State | $450

Credits to Graduate: 180, including up to 105 quarter unit transfer credits

Loma Linda University's post-professional bachelor of science in respiratory care allows respiratory care practitioners to complete their undergraduate degrees. You can enroll full- or part-time and begin at the start of any quarter. Full-time enrollees can finish in one year.

The curriculum covers skills in pulmonary physiology, diagnostics, comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation, and research. You must have an associate degree in respiratory therapy and science, math, and humanities prerequisites.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,400
Out-of-state
$32,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,040
Out-of-state
$27,040
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,468
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#6 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

University of Southern Indiana

  • Evansville, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $345

Out-of-State | $345

Credits to Graduate: 120, including transfer credits

The University of Southern Indiana offers an online program for registered respiratory therapists (RRTs) to earn their bachelor of science in respiratory therapy degrees. Designed for working RRTs, the program features six start dates per year, and you can finish in four semesters. 

The curriculum focuses on skills for advanced clinical respiratory therapists. Indiana residents aged 25 or older may qualify for a $2,000 Adult Student Grant. To apply, you must have an associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program, a 2.3 GPA, and an RRT credential.   

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,716
Out-of-state
$20,252
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,246
Out-of-state
$19,469
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
10,203
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Northern Kentucky University

  • Highland Heights, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $461; $275 for first-time NKU online students

Out-of-State | $461; $275 for first-time NKU online students

Credits to Graduate: 30

You can finish an online bachelor of science in respiratory therapy at Northern Kentucky University in 12 months. Core courses include advanced critical care, healthcare management, teaching and learning in healthcare education, and an accelerated respiratory care capstone project in a chosen focus area, such as administrative, clinical, education, or population-based. 

You must be a registered respiratory therapist to apply and have an associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program with a 2.5 GPA. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,912
Out-of-state
$19,872
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,034
Out-of-state
$16,974
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
16,211
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Kent State University at Ashtabula

  • Ashtabula, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $316-$371

Out-of-State | $326-$381

Credits to Graduate: 39

In partnership with Ohio's Cleveland Clinic, Kent State University at Ashtabula offers a fully online bachelor of science in respiratory care degree completion program for certified respiratory therapists (CRTs) or registered respiratory therapists (RRTs). In addition to CRT or RRT credentials, you must hold an associate degree in respiratory therapy with a 2.0 GPA.

The curriculum prepares you for advanced clinical practice, education, management, or research roles through accelerated, seven-week courses. You learn leadership skills, disease management, and sleep medicine. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,116
Out-of-state
$14,992
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,049
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Youngstown State University

  • Youngstown, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $293

Out-of-State | $293

Credits to Graduate: 120, including transfer credits

The online bachelor of science in respiratory care at Ohio's Youngstown State University provides degree advancement and completion opportunities. You study advanced cardiopulmonary disease management; advanced clinical applications; and clinical research, leadership, and technology. 

You must have an associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program and credentials as a certified respiratory therapist or registered respiratory therapist. The program also offers an advanced placement master's option if you have junior standing and a 3.2 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,966
Out-of-state
$9,326
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,072
Out-of-state
$9,072
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
11,835
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

University of Michigan-Flint

  • Flint, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $516

Out-of-State | $570

Credits to Graduate: 124, including transfer credits

University of Michigan-Flint's online completion program for registered respiratory therapists (RRTs) awards a bachelor of science in respiratory therapy. You can enroll full or part time and complete the program in 12 months. The curriculum covers advanced respiratory care in specialty areas that include critical care, disease management, and diagnostics.

You need an associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program and an RRT credential. Certified respiratory therapists may be admitted but must become RRTs prior to taking the practicum and capstone courses. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,868
Out-of-state
$23,604
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,862
Out-of-state
$17,748
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
6,829
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Why Get an Online Degree in Respiratory Therapy?

How Much Does a Degree in Respiratory Therapy Cost?

The cost of a respiratory therapy (RT) degree depends on what kind of school you attend. If you attend a non-residential public two-year college, the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) reports an average annual tuition of $3,501.

Meanwhile, a four-year on-campus or online respiratory therapy program at a public school costs $21,337 per year on average. A four-year private school costs an average $46,313 each year.

How to Become a Respiratory Therapist: 3 Steps

Like other healthcare careers, you must earn a degree, pass a certification examination, and apply for a state license (in all states but Alaska) to become a respiratory therapist.

  1. 1

    Earn Your Degree

    You can earn either a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor degree for an entry-level RT position. Some employers prefer four-year graduates, especially for higher-level positions as your career advances. You must graduate from an accredited program to apply for certification examinations. All programs on our list are accredited.

  2. 2

    Complete Licensure Requirements

    There are two primary RT certifications, the certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). Both start with the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) examination. If you pass the TMC, you can apply for a CRT license.

    If your TMC score is high enough, you can take the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) to become an RRT. Except for the state of Alaska, you must also apply for a state license. Some states require the RRT to earn a state license, while others require just the CRT.

  3. 3

    Fulfill Continuing Education Hours

    Each state has its own requirements for maintaining your license. Most states require a certain number of continuing education hours. You can complete these by attending classes, conferences, webinars, or other approved learning opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Respiratory Therapy Degrees

How long does it take to become a respiratory therapist?

The minimum degree required to become a respiratory therapist is a two-year respiratory therapy associate degree. Once you graduate, you can apply to become a certified respiratory therapist.

Do respiratory therapists need a license to practice?

You must have a license to practice respiratory therapy in every state but Alaska. Alaska recommends but does not require certification. Check your state for its specific requirements.

How much money do respiratory therapists make?

The median salary for respiratory therapists is $61,830, according to the BLS. The bottom 10% of earners make $47,380 or less, and the too 10% earn at least $95,540. Salaries depend on experience, local demand, and other local factors.

Is respiratory therapy harder than nursing?

Whether respiratory therapy is harder or easier than nursing depends on your own scope of interest and knowledge.

Both nurses and RTs spend a great deal of time on their feet and hold a great deal of responsibility. Nurses generally need to know about many more different subjects, while respiratory therapists have to understand the respiratory system in great depth.

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