B.S. in Respiratory Therapy

Respiratory Therapy student

JSU offers two options for the BSRT. The traditional, entry-level option is designed for students wanting to enter the field. It requires approximately two years of prerequisite coursework before beginning the five-semester respiratory therapy program. Graduates become eligible to take their national credentialing exams that lead to the RRT credentials.

The second option is the RRT-BSRT Bridge Program, or degree advancement option. It is designed for practicing respiratory therapists that have completed an accredited associate degree in respiratory therapy and earned their RRT credential. They can advance their degree to the baccalaureate level at JSU through this online option.

Potential Careers

Respiratory therapists are mostly employed in hospitals. There are also opportunities available in home care, transport services, diagnostic centers, physician clinics, sleep centers, long-term care centers, education, and research. Respiratory therapy offers opportunities to care for patients of all age groups, from babies to the elderly. RTs focus on patients with heart and lung issues.

Median Annual Salary

Respiratory therapist

$62,800

*Median annual salaries are from The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Degree Information

View Requirements

View Plan of Study

Additional Facts

The global pandemic has spotlighted the need for additional respiratory therapists. Today's graduates commonly have multiple job offers and many begin working as student therapists while in the program.

Departmental Information

Online Program Contact

Ed Goodwin
pegoodwin@jsu.edu
(256) 782-5431