Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist
Treat patients with breathing problems — from asthma to ICU vents. Strong post-COVID demand and two-year entry.
high-pay-fasthelping-peoplehigh-growth
44
ROI · Moderate
Investment vs return
Cost · time · demand normalized 0–100
Salary progression
What you'll earn over your career
$58k
$75k
$95k
Entry
Mid-career
Senior
10-yr outlook
+13%
+13% (Much faster than avg)
Open positions
8,800
Estimated nationwide
Entry paths
How to get here
Multiple paths lead to this career. Compare time, cost, online vs in-person delivery, and program links.
Fastest ROI
Degree In Person
Associate in Respiratory Therapy
Time
2 years
Cost
$8,000 – $35,000
Top programs
NBRC RRT credential required.
Affiliate disclosure: Some of the program links above may be affiliate partnerships. If you enroll, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link to programs we have actually reviewed against our methodology. See our methodology for how we evaluate schools.
Quick math
If you took the fastest path…
You'd train for
2 years
You'd spend (avg)
$21,500
Starting salary
$58,000
Mid-career
$75,000
Read more
Articles & resources
Sources: BLS OOH 2024 · NBRC