2025 Best Online Respiratory Therapy Programs
Online respiratory therapy programs prepare graduates for leadership roles in clinical settings and open doors to careers in education, research, and healthcare administration. Many colleges and universities across the U.S. offer online bachelor鈥檚 degree completion programs in respiratory therapy, tailored for individuals with prior work experience, credentials, active licenses, and relevant education.
Key Takeaways:
- Schools hosting a respiratory therapy online program with a high Salary Score all have median earnings above $62,000.
- Institutions that are highly rated by students all maintain recommendation rates of 85% or higher.
- Every school listed for its affordable tuition costs below $30,000.
While most OnlineU lists use a traditional "ranking" format, we鈥檝e taken a different approach to highlight four distinct categories: Best by Salary Score, Best by Affordability, Highest Rated by Students, and Honorable Mention. Please visit our methodology page to learn more.
Best by Salary Score
This category evaluates online respiratory therapy programs based on alumni median salaries to determine the best long-term financial investments. Schools are assigned a Salary Score derived from earnings data, specifically early career salaries four years post-graduation. Schools with the best Salary Scores all have median earnings above $62,000.
Pima Medical Institute
Why We Like Them:
PMI's online stands out due to its graduates' impressive median earnings of $79,949, ranking within the top 18% of earnings among comparable programs on a national scale. This data suggests significant career value and a strong return on investment upon completion. Overall, PMI's respiratory therapy degree online has an A- Salary Score. The program spans approximately 16 months, focusing on healthcare management, public health, and polysomnography, meeting the current industry requirements for leadership roles.
Oregon Institute of Technology
Why We Like Them:
OIT demonstrates an outstanding earnings median of $79,400, positioning graduates in the top 18% for salary outcomes nationally. OIT's online is designed specifically for Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRT), integrating scientific and leadership principles with therapeutic and diagnostic procedures. One of the unique features of this program is its flexibility in credit transfer, where 80 credits are granted for RRT credentials, significantly accelerating your path to degree completion.
Loma Linda University
Why We Like Them:
LLU earns its place on our list due to its graduates' median earnings of $77,459, which places the online among the top 21% of institutions nationwide for salary. This significant earning potential gives the program an A- Salary Score and reflects the strong return on investment. Complementing this, the student-faculty ratio of 3:1 is remarkable, landing in the top 3% of colleges, which ensures that you will receive personalized attention. The program is designed for respiratory care practitioners with an existing associate degree who seek to advance their qualifications.
What Students Say:
"Loma Linda University provides the opportunity to succeed in medical-related studies while promoting mental, physical, social, and intellectual wellbeing. This university genuinely cares about their students and is certain about the ability to better the lives of others relies on the wellbeing of the professionals we become. All professors attain the reputation of being more than just educators but life mentors as well."
Brianna Velasquez, Graduated 2018
University of Cincinnati
Why We Like Them:
UC stands out due to its strong financial outcomes for graduates, boasting median earnings of $68,871, placing it in the top 38% compared to other institutions. The online comprises 50 credits and can be completed in as little as five semesters, offering a quick and effective pathway to career advancement. Accreditation is upheld with the CoARC's provisional accreditation, ensuring compliance with national standards and quality in respiratory care education. It prepares RRTs and Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) for leadership roles, further education, and advanced practice.
What Students Say:
"All of the professors that I have had are very encouraging, willing to push you to your boundaries, and challenge you."
Amanda Miller, Graduated 2019
Boise State University
Why We Like Them:
Boise State is noteworthy for the earnings among graduates of the online 鈥� $65,680 annually. This is a B Salary Score, placing it in the top 55th percentile nationwide. We also appreciate that Boise State boasts a recommendation rate of 93%. This strong endorsement signifies confidence and satisfaction among graduates. The program covers critical areas of study and emphasizes licensure requirements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification.
What Students Say:
"Exceptional support from the school professors. Great atmosphere, inexpensive off-campus housing. Centrally located."
Marie Letourneau, Graduated 2018
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Why We Like Them:
Charlotte has strong median earnings for graduates of its online , averaging $65,668, placing it among the top 45% of institutions for alumni salary. This significant earning potential is complemented by a high graduation rate of 70%, ranking in the top 15% nationally, underscoring the school's ability to foster student success. The fully online curriculum can be completed in as little as 12 months for full-time students, or over two years for those preferring a part-time approach. This degree focuses on advanced critical care, management, and leadership, specifically aiding those already holding an RRT credential and an AAS.
What Students Say:
"UNCC is a very diverse and forward-thinking environment. The professors are well-qualified and take a personal interest in the students. The technology is state-of-the-art, and the facilities are very impressive."
A.D. Arnold, Graduated 2018
Midwestern State University
Why We Like Them:
MSU's online has a solid median earnings of $62,761 for its graduates, situating it near the 50th percentile nationwide. This speaks to the program's ability to prepare you for rewarding professional roles in the respiratory care field. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to accommodate working professionals, offering both traditional 16-week and accelerated 8-week course options to provide flexibility. The program consists of 120 semester hours and includes areas of focus such as critical care, neonatal and pediatric care, pathophysiology, and more.
What Students Say:
"I graduated this past May from Midwestern State University. I was part of the respiratory therapy program, specifically the RRT to BSRC Online program. Hands-down, this is the best program for RTs...The professors are excellent and always willing to help."
James, Graduated 2018
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Why We Like Them:
The at UT Health San Antonio has graduates with median yearly salaries of $62,001. We further appreciate that UT Health San Antonio boasts an exemplary student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, ensuring personalized attention and support. The respiratory care program requires completing 32 hours of coursework, which can be finished in one to three years, providing flexible options to accommodate different schedules. Admission mandates holding the RRT credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC), ensuring that students are credentialed.
Best by Affordability
In this category, we include schools based on their annual tuition costs at the bachelor's level. To qualify, schools hosting respiratory therapy degrees online must offer a consistent tuition rate across all programs, with annual expenses below $30,000, excluding additional fees. All of our most affordable schools are below $13,000 in tuition costs.
Middle Georgia State University
Why We Like Them:
MGA secures its top rank with an exceptionally affordable tuition of $4,500, placing it in the top 4% for cost-effectiveness nationally. Additionally, 99% of MGA鈥檚 students receive financial aid, highlighting the school's dedication to supporting its students financially. The average financial aid package is approximately $6,126. MGA鈥檚 demands 120 total credit hours. The curriculum is designed not only to meet the current healthcare community's needs but also to prepare you for advanced roles. You will also receive 21 credit hours toward your major just for holding a valid RRT credential, accelerating your path to graduation.
What Students Say:
"It is a good, very affordable school. Even if you are an out-of-state student the online classes are very much affordable. Good if you are paying for school yourself."
Paola Guell, Graduated 2021
Liberty University
Why We Like Them:
LU stands out mainly due to its affordability, with a tuition of $11,700 for its online . placing it in the top 24% for affordability. This cost-efficient tuition allows you to pursue higher education without incurring a significant financial burden. Complementing this affordability is a strong retention rate of 79%, situating LU among the top 24% of schools for student retention. This metric signifies that a substantial number of students are satisfied with their academic experience, making LU a reliable choice for your online respiratory therapy degree.
What Students Say:
"I have attended Liberty University for the past 6 years through the online program. I received quality education comparable to public universities. The biblical integration into every course may not suit everyone, but for Christians, it adds a valuable dimension. The instructors I have encountered are outstanding, offering prompt feedback and personalized instruction."
Marie, Graduated 2016
Newberry College
Why We Like Them:
Newberry College's online is particularly attractive with a tuition of only $11,850. The cost-effectiveness of this program is complemented by a generous financial aid package that averages $24,108, placing it among the top 15% nationally for financial aid offerings. Additionally, 100% of students receive some form of financial assistance. The online RTT program mandates that students complete 123 total credit hours to graduate, and it's CoARC-accredited, ensuring it aligns with industry standards and prepares you for RTP licensure.
Pueblo Community College
Why We Like Them:
PCC stands out for its affordability, as evidenced by its low tuition of $12,339. Additionally, the college excels in supporting its students financially, with 94% receiving financial aid. PCC's RCA online covers advanced topics such as cardiopulmonary pathophysiology, ventilator management, and diagnostic procedures including bronchoscopy and arterial blood gas analysis. These components ensure you're well-prepared for the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) credentialing exam, a critical step for professional practice in the U.S.
University of Southern Indiana
Why We Like Them:
USI has a tuition of $28,170, making it an excellent value for obtaining an online. Coupled with a strong overall review rating of 3.88 out of 5 and a recommendation rate of 83%, it's clear that this program provides substantial satisfaction among its graduates. USI's RRT to BSRT program can be completed in as few as four semesters and is a 100% online degree completion program. The program holds provisional accreditation from CoARC and enhances your clinical skills while preparing you for leadership roles in respiratory therapy.
What Students Say:
"As I started this course I was a little nervous and concerned about, going back to school... The college teacher heading the class made it simple and easy to follow... Yes in my humble opinion this was the best online course that I could have ever taken."
Gregory Jones, Graduating 2025
Highest Rated by Students
This category highlights schools with some of the highest student satisfaction based on alumni reviews. To be included, schools must have at least 20 reviews on OnlineU or GradReports, our companion site, maintaining a minimum rating of 3.5 out of 5. All of our best by student reviews online colleges have a recommendation rate of 85% or higher.
Utah Valley University
Why We Like Them:
UVU boasts an overall review rating of 4.01 out of 5. This high rating alongside an 87% recommendation rate for the school indicates strong student satisfaction with the quality of education. UVU鈥檚 requires 124 credits and includes courses like advanced practice and quality improvement in respiratory care. Notably, it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), ensuring that your education meets high industry standards. Furthermore, this degree facilitates licensure in most states, adding significant value to this program.
What Students Say:
"My experience at UVU has been unbeatable. I have worked with almost every teacher in the music department... I would recommend UVU to anyone who wants to go to a college where students really do get to be in the driver鈥檚 seat."
Benjamin Perry, Graduated 2018
University of Michigan - Flint
Why We Like Them:
UM Flint has a review rating of 3.97 out of 5 and a 92% recommendation rate. This high rating reflects strong student satisfaction and an effective online learning environment. Additionally, the school's financial aid metrics are remarkable, with 100% of students receiving aid and an average aid package of $13,389, positioning it in the top 29% for financial aid availability. The CoARC-accredited can be completed in as few as 12 months. It prepares you for credentials such as Neonatal Pediatric Specialty and Adult Critical Care Specialty, awarded by the National Board for Respiratory Care.
What Students Say:
"A great asset is that many of the professors have real-life experience working in the field that they are teaching in."
Earnisha Sims, Graduated 2016
University of Kansas
Why We Like Them:
With an overall review rating of 3.84, KU stands out for its high levels of student satisfaction. This is further supported by the recommendation rate of 94%, showcasing the high regard from former students. Complementing this is the retention rate at 85%, indicating that students are likely to remain and complete their studies, which places KU in the top 14% for this metric. The 30-credit , spread over eight-week course blocks, offers both fast track and extended track options. Furthermore, KU's CoARC-accredited program is cost-efficient for Kansas residents, offering in-state tuition rates and exemption from certain campus fees.
What Students Say:
"A good student to mentor ratio allows for that personal attention when questions arise during experiments. Access to professors that actually care and are competent is an essential component to success. The program is challenging but promotes free thinking and individualism in creativity."
Brian Reverri, Graduated 2020
Youngstown State University
Why We Like Them:
TSU has an overall student review rating of 3.84, which means consistent positive feedback from students. Also notable is the institution's high recommendation rate at 85%, reinforcing its strong reputation among alumni and its supportive learning environment. Another significant highlight is that 100% of students receive financial aid. The CoARC-accredited covers advanced cardiopulmonary disease management, clinical research, and leadership training. YSU focuses on professional development through interprofessional education and advanced clinical applications.
What Students Say:
"YSU is a wonderful school, with many terrific programs, majors, and opportunities for the incoming freshman. The school is growing and expanding in an effort to offer the best experience possible for its students... It is also affiliated with the nearby medical school, which greatly benefits students heading in the medical direction."
A.M., Graduated 2018
Northern Kentucky University
Why We Like Them:
NKU is high on our list due to its overall review rating of 3.73 out of 5, reflecting strong student satisfaction. This ranking is further reinforced by a recommendation rate of 93%, illustrating that a significant majority of graduates would endorse the program. The online offered by NKU is designed for practicing respiratory therapists with an associate degree, making it an ideal pathway to advance your credentials. The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to provide advanced knowledge in areas such as healthcare management, health informatics, and advanced critical care, ensuring practitioners stay current with industry standards.
What Students Say:
"The faculty at NKU are the most genuine, caring, and truly loving individuals I have met... students are encouraged to do what they are passionate about... never swayed down the wrong path just for the university to make an extra dollar... it is small enough where you feel like you are known but big enough where it doesn't feel like high school."
Samantha Marcum, Graduated 2019
Nova Southeastern University
Why We Like Them:
With an overall review rating of 3.6 out of 5, NSU excels in student satisfaction. Coupled with a recommendation rate of 83%, the institution is highly regarded by its graduates. If we look at retention rates, NSU shows a strong figure of 78%. Additionally, the average financial aid package of $23,958 is among the top 16% of universities. The online offers support from instructors and 24/7 access to lectures and materials. Practical fieldwork 鈥� through practicum, internships, or scientific investigations 鈥� enhances your learning with hands-on skills.
What Students Say:
"The professors at the institution are extremely brilliant and helpful in all of the students' endeavors."
Samantha Weisman, Graduated 2020
University of Toledo
Why We Like Them:
UToledo has a solid overall review rating of 3.56. Such a rating reflects a healthy level of student satisfaction and is reinforced by the program鈥檚 85% recommendation rate. This suggests that a significant majority of students found value in their education and are willing to recommend UToledo to prospective students like you. Key aspects of the online include the opportunity to earn licensure as a respiratory therapist, which meets the State of Ohio's academic requirements. Additionally, the 100% online degree completion track allows RRTs to further their education flexibly.
What Students Say:
"Choosing to attend the University of Toledo has been one of the best decisions of my life. I have made friends I know that I will keep for a lifetime, as well as giving me a wonderful education... The professors and advisers openly care about the students and make an effort to remember everyone's name... I would say the University of Toledo can help you achieve all of your college goals."
Michelle, Graduated 2017
Honorable Mention
This category features institutions that don't fit neatly into other specific categories yet still offer compelling reasons for consideration. Schools included here have unique characteristics worthy of note, based on various data-centric observations. Below, we show the schools with the highest online enrollments, ranging from 354 to 1,436 distance learners.
San Joaquin Valley College
Why We Like Them:
One of the primary reasons SJVC stands out is its considerable online enrollment, positioning it in the top 29% of schools with the highest number of online students. This demonstrates the school's strong digital infrastructure and capacity to deliver quality education remotely. We like that the can be completed in as few as 16 months if you're advancing from an associate degree. Students gain critical, real-world skills tailored for career advancement in respiratory care, with coursework focused on effective communication, data interpretation, and evidence-based practice.
Kent State University at Ashtabula
Why We Like Them:
Kent State hosts 1,138 online students at the undergraduate level alone. This strong online presence indicates a highly accessible and flexible learning environment, ideal for those balancing career and education. Another compelling metric is the high percentage of students receiving financial aid, with 97% benefiting, which underscores the school's commitment to affordability. The is CoARC-accredited, ensuring that it adheres to rigorous educational standards. You can complete the degree in as little as four semesters, taking advantage of accelerated 7-week courses designed to fit into a busy schedule.
Carlow University
Why We Like Them:
Carlow has a solid student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, placing Carlow in the top 17% of institutions for this metric, which means you can expect significant personalized attention and support from your instructors. Additionally, the average financial aid package is $26,713, a remarkable offering that positions Carlow in the upper 11% nationally for financial aid generosity. Furthermore, 99% of students receive financial aid here. Registered and certified respiratory therapists who hold associate degrees can complete an online here in as few as 18 months, thanks to the generous transfer credit policy.
What Students Say:
"I enjoy how accessible and inclusive the professors are at Carlow. Every theoretical and philosophical viewpoint is considered and debated to create well-rounded students who are capable and effective clinicians. I feel supported by Carlow's professors and the school. I highly recommend Carlow!"
Kelley Rhodes-Hope, Graduated 2017
Nebraska Methodist College
Why We Like Them:
Methodist College has a strong graduation rate of 74%, placing it in the top 11% of similar programs nationally. The institution also maintains a strong retention rate of 84%, reflecting high levels of student satisfaction and success. Financially, 100% of students receive aid, with an average package of $11,835, highlighting the school鈥檚 commitment to affordability. The is designed for working professionals, awarding six credits for prior learning to those with RRT certification. With curriculum tracks in both Education & Research and Healthcare Management & Leadership, it prepares you for advanced roles in respiratory care.
Student Reviews of Online Respiratory Therapy Programs
I still recommend the program but have had difficulty in the last semester with or last two classes with financial aid. Prepare not to receive your money until 2 weeks before graduation as this is what is happening to me I now have to work more hours
Review Date: 3/17/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
How tuition works was not up front. It cost me an addition $2000 due to the fact my work place was told it was a cost of $409.50 per class. SJVC included the credits that I tranfered into the program under the tuition. This is fraudulent!!! They are including credits that were paid for and taken by another college in the price when submitting it to my work place. I am sorry I started the program there are many other programs to choose from. I will be reporting this to the AARC.
Review Date: 9/11/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I graduated this past May from Midwestern State University. I was part of the respiratory therapy program, specifically the RRT to BSRC Online program. Hands-down, this is the best program for RTs. I did a lot of research for these programs and several friends who went through MSU told me it was great. The professors are excellent and always willing to help. The process of getting started was not that difficult and the questions I did have were answered quickly by one of the professors. I would highly... Read More
Review Date: 11/6/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This was an awesome experience! I love the staff as well as all the business offices there! I was able to sail through with flying colors because I had a great team of professionals and fellow students to aid me. Also the material and study resources are top notched and offer everything a student can need! I am a husband and father of 8 and I was able to complete the course with few interruptions! I recommend INDEPENDENCE UNIVERSITY to anyone who is looking to better themselves and their career!... Read More
Review Date: 5/28/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I must say, I have had experience with Independence University/Stevens-Henagar since it was called California College back in the 90's. I have had a variety of experiences both good and bad. I actually fired them MANY times, I went through 2 student advisors a month for a while. But, I persevered and they stuck by me the entire time. It was truly like a family for me, dysfunctional at times, but I was comfortable openly complaining about anything that bothered me, even at 3am. I recently completed... Read More
Review Date: 12/18/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I received my BSRC from Midwestern State University's online program in 2014. I had previously obtained my associates degree from another college and then transferred to MSU to complete my bachelors. I have to give two thumbs up to this school and program. The professors are absolutely wonderful and always willing to help when needed. The course work was always manageable while I worked full time and you get to choose which classes you want to take instead of being told you have to take specific... Read More
Review Date: 4/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I鈥檓 a 27 year old Navy vet who served 6 years active duty as a Hospital Corpsman. I got out of the military in June of 2023 and began attending Tri-C western campus initially thinking that鈥檇 be easier for me. It served its purpose and I did enjoy my time at Tri-C, but, when I submitted my JST to them they only gave me 1 credit that applied towards my major, so I transferred to the University of Akron. Over the summer I went into the Al transfer office many times and was met head to head with staff... Read More
Review Date: 9/4/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The Respiratory Therapy Program at Ohio State University prepares individuals for a career in respiratory care clinically, professionally, and personally. The directors hold our personal skills with patients and other professionals to as high of a standard as our clinical skills. Our access to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and affiliated institutions allows us to have resources from a variety of backgrounds that give us a well-rounded education as well as clinical experiences. For... Read More
Review Date: 2/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My personal experience as a Respiratory Therapist student at FAMU was indeed an educational experience with a practicum of hands on in the clinical setting. The professors were superb in delivering the content for every course and they were available to assist you with questions on a daily basis. The students were competitive and we had study groups often. I felt more like a practitioner than a student! The professors coordinated with local hospitals and out of state hospitals to ensure that we were... Read More
Review Date: 9/10/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No