How to Become a Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat patients with breathing disorders such as asthma, emphysema and cystic fibrosis using a variety of methods and equipment. Follow these simple steps to prepare for a career that literally helps people breathe easier.
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Instructions
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Take as many courses as possible in biology, chemistry, physics, math and health science during your high school years.
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Complete a two-year, post-secondary-level training program in respiratory therapy offered by a hospital, college, vocational-technical school, or branch of the military. These programs include both classroom and clinical components, culminating in an associate's degree.
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Pass the licensing exam offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care to become a licensed respiratory therapist. Licensing is required to practice in all but ten states, and is strongly preferred everywhere.
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Further your career by additional study to obtain a bachelor's degree. You'll also accumulate more clinical experience.
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Maintain your license through required continuing education credits every two years.
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Tips & Warnings
Opportunities will be greatest for RTs with expertise in treating infants and/or the elderly.
