Respiratory Therapy Program (Associate of Science)

Respiratory Therapists work with patients who are struggling with breathing, including those with chronic respiratory disease, such as asthma or emphysema. They may work with all age groups, with whom they will measure breathing capacity and work to administer treatment. (2)

Learn more in our Respiratory Therapist Career Guide.

Most professionals begin by completing an associate degree in respiratory therapy, which typically takes about two years. Carrington College’s Respiratory Therapy program can be completed in as few as 18 months. (1) After graduation, candidates are expected to pass credentialing examinations before practicing in many states. (3)

Entry-level professionals typically complete an associate degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program to meet the educational requirements for respiratory therapist roles. (2) These programs include classroom instruction, lab practice, and supervised clinical experience. Some professionals may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree to expand their education. (2)

Respiratory therapists assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary conditions, using a combination of diagnostic testing, therapeutic procedures, and specialized equipment. (2) Because of this, respiratory therapy education programs are designed to build both clinical knowledge and hands-on technical skills used in patient care.

In Carrington College’s Associate of Science in Respiratory Therapy program, students develop these skills through coursework and applied training that may include topics such as: (1)

• Anatomy and physiology
• Fundamentals of respiratory care
• Pharmacology
• Ventilatory principles of respiratory care
• Clinical practice
• Neonatal and pediatric respiratory care

For more information, review the program course catalog.

Carrington College’s Respiratory Therapy program is designed to meet educational standards recommended for respiratory therapy training. (1) Accreditation status and credentialing eligibility may vary by campus location, and students should review the program disclosures and accreditation information provided by the college.

Yes. The Carrington College Respiratory Therapy program includes supervised clinical training in healthcare facilities. These clinical rotations allow students to practice respiratory care procedures, work with medical equipment, and gain real-world patient care experience under professional supervision. (1)

Graduates of accredited respiratory therapy programs may pursue credentialing examinations administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). These exams are commonly used as part of the process for respiratory therapist licensure in many states. (3)

During the program, students may complete training related to industry-recognized healthcare certifications depending on campus offerings. These may include certifications in areas such as basic life support or other clinical training commonly used in healthcare settings. (1)

After completing an associate degree in respiratory therapy, graduates may pursue entry-level respiratory therapy positions in healthcare settings. (2) With additional education, experience, or specialization, professionals may pursue advanced roles in respiratory care, education, or healthcare leadership. (4)

Yes. Graduates of the Associate of Science in Respiratory Therapy program may be eligible to continue their education through Carrington’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy completion program. This pathway allows working respiratory therapists to build on their education and expand their professional knowledge. (1)