Respiratory Therapists must be able to work as team members and be able to assess patient status, administer respiratory medications, draw and analyze blood samples, and operate various types of equipment.
Fun Facts
Variety of career paths at entry level
Students often hired before completing degree
New graduates of Associate Degree programs make an average of 17.72/hr while new graduates of Baccalaureate Degree programs make an average of $18.73/hr, a difference of only 1.01/hr.
Student Snapshot
Most students are non-traditional (over 25).
About 40% of students are male (2002).
Male Factor – Things to Consider
Historically, this has been a field popular with males.
Most classes take place during the day.
Student Quote:
"I was hired at Euclid Hospital under my limited license the Fall of my second year. About 50% of the therapists there are male." Joe Tarach, Age 46 (formerly a Machinist Grinder at TRW.)
LCC Program
Prepares You For
The Next Level
National Median Salary
Associate of Applied Science Degree Respiratory Therapy
State Licensing Registry Examination and therapist employment.
Career movement is typically from care of general to critical patients. Therapists with 4-year degrees can advance to supervisory or managerial positions.
$54,280 [BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook 2012-13]
Respiratory Therapists must be able to work as team members and be able to assess patient status, administer respiratory medications, draw and analyze blood samples, and operate various types of equipment.
