2-Year Respiratory Therapy Programs 2026

Respiratory therapy is a hands-on healthcare career with steady demand across hospitals, clinics, and home care settings. If you’re looking for a practical path into the field, exploring fast online healthcare degrees can help you get started while balancing work and other responsibilities.

That said, respiratory therapy training requires in-person clinical experience, so even flexible programs include some on-site learning. Many schools now offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with local clinical placements, making it easier to complete your degree without relocating.

How Long Does it Take to Earn an Respiratory Therapy Degree?

Most respiratory therapy degrees take about two to three years to complete, especially at the associate level. These entry-level programs include both classroom instruction and supervised clinical training, which are required for licensure and professional practice.

Accelerated respiratory therapy programs may shorten that timeline if you already have completed general education courses or have prior healthcare experience. In some cases, licensed respiratory therapists returning for additional education may finish even faster through bridge programs, but for new students, two years is typically the fastest realistic path.

What Makes a Respiratory Therapy Degree Faster to Complete?

Several factors can help you finish your degree more quickly. One of the most important is whether a program offers year-round enrollment, allowing you to take classes during summer terms instead of following a traditional academic calendar.

Shorter course terms can also help you move through material faster, especially if you’re able to stay enrolled continuously. In addition, schools that accept transfer credits for general education courses can reduce the number of classes you need to complete, which may shorten your overall timeline.

2-Year Respiratory Therapy Degree Programs

If you’re starting from scratch, a two-year respiratory therapy program is one of the most direct paths into the field. These programs are typically offered at community colleges and technical schools, combining general education coursework with hands-on clinical training. While some courses may be available online, all programs include in-person labs and clinical rotations to prepare you for licensure.

Below are entry-level programs that can typically be completed in about two years, often structured to help you move efficiently from prerequisites into core respiratory therapy coursework.

1. East Central College

East Central College is located in Union, Missouri, and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Its respiratory therapy program is also accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), which is essential for licensure and certification eligibility.

The program follows a “one plus one” structure, where students complete prerequisite and general education coursework in the first year and respiratory therapy courses in the second year. This format allows you to finish the full program in about two years while building a strong academic foundation before entering clinical training.

2. Foothill College

Foothill College is located in Los Altos Hills, California, and offers a respiratory therapy program designed for students entering the field. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience to prepare graduates for entry-level roles.

The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), and its respiratory therapy program holds accreditation from the CoARC. This two-year program includes summer and winter quarters, allowing for continuous enrollment and a more efficient path to completion.

3. Kent State University

Kent State University offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in respiratory therapy designed for students preparing for entry-level roles in the field. The program includes a mix of online coursework and in-person practicums, allowing for some flexibility while still meeting clinical training requirements.

The university is located in Kent, Ohio, and is accredited by the HLC. Its respiratory therapy program is accredited by the CoARC. This program can typically be completed in about two years, combining academic instruction with hands-on clinical experience.

4. Laboure College

Laboure College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and offers an Associate of Science in respiratory care designed for students entering the field. The program focuses on building foundational knowledge alongside clinical skills needed for licensure and patient care.

The college is located in Milton, Massachusetts. Its respiratory care program is accredited by the CoARC. The program is structured to be completed in about two years, including classroom learning and supervised clinical training.

5. Madison Area Technical College

Madison Area Technical College is located in Madison, Wisconsin, and is accredited by the HLC. The school offers a respiratory therapist program that prepares students for entry-level roles through a combination of coursework and clinical experience.

The program is accredited by the CoARC. This two-year program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training, helping you build the skills needed for licensure and employment in healthcare settings.

6. Newman University

Newman University is located in Wichita, Kansas, and offers an AS in respiratory care designed for students entering the field. The program focuses on developing clinical skills and foundational knowledge needed for licensure and patient care.

The university is accredited by the HLC, and its respiratory care program is accredited by the CoARC. This program can typically be completed in about 16 months after you finish general education and prerequisite courses, making it a faster option for prepared students.

7. Sinclair College

Sinclair College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in respiratory care designed to prepare students for entry-level roles through a combination of classroom learning and clinical training. The program emphasizes hands-on experience alongside academic coursework.

The college is located in Dayton, Ohio, and is accredited by the HLC. Its respiratory care program is accredited by the CoARC. The program is structured across five semesters, though students may be able to finish in under two years if they take courses during the summer.

8. Three Rivers College

Three Rivers College is accredited by the HLC and offers a respiratory care program designed for students starting their careers in the field. The program combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinical experiences to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

The college is located in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. Its respiratory care program is accredited by the CoARC. The program follows a “one plus one” structure, with prerequisite coursework completed first, followed by respiratory therapy courses and clinical training.

9. University of Saint Francis

The University of Saint Francis is located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and is accredited by the HLC. The school offers a hybrid Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in respiratory therapy designed for students entering the field.

The program is also accredited by the CoARC. This hybrid program can typically be completed in about 18 months and combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinical training to prepare you for licensure.

10. West Virginia Junior College

West Virginia Junior College is located in Charleston, West Virginia, and offers a hybrid respiratory therapy program designed for students seeking a faster entry into the field. The program blends online learning with hands-on clinical experience.

The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), and its respiratory therapy program is accredited by the CoARC. This program can typically be completed in about 18 months, depending on your schedule and prior coursework.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university. We focus on factors that matter most for students entering the field and looking for a realistic two-year pathway:

• Accreditation: We prioritize schools that are institutionally accredited and have programs approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). This is important for licensure eligibility and career readiness.
• Program length: Programs that can be completed in about two years are given priority, including those with structured timelines like “one plus one” formats or year-round enrollment options.
• Online availability: While all entry-level programs require in-person training, we highlight schools that offer hybrid coursework to provide added flexibility for students balancing other responsibilities.
• Student outcomes: We review available data on graduation rates, clinical preparation, and career readiness. Strong outcomes can indicate that a program prepares you for both licensure and long-term success in respiratory therapy.

What Is the Fastest Way to Earn Your Respiratory Therapy Degree?

The fastest way to earn a respiratory therapy degree depends on your background. For most students starting from scratch, completing an associate degree in about two years is the quickest and most common path. These programs include both classroom instruction and clinical training, which are required for licensure.

If you already have college credits or healthcare experience, you may be able to finish faster by transferring prerequisites or enrolling in an accelerated format. Licensed respiratory therapists can move even more quickly by pursuing a bridge or master’s program, which may take about one to two years depending on the structure.

Are There Any 1-Year Respiratory Therapy Degrees?

One-year respiratory therapy programs do exist, but they are usually limited to specific situations. Some schools offer accelerated pathways that can be completed in about 12 months if you have already finished general education and prerequisite courses.

In addition, licensed respiratory therapists may qualify for one-year bridge or master’s programs that focus on advanced coursework rather than entry-level training. For students without prior education or licensure, however, most respiratory therapy degrees still take about two years or longer due to required clinical experience.

How Much Does a 2-Year Respiratory Therapy Degree Cost?

The cost of a two-year respiratory therapy degree can vary depending on the school and whether you qualify for in-state tuition. Community colleges and technical schools, which commonly offer these programs, are often more affordable than four-year institutions. In many cases, total tuition may range from about $5,000 to $20,000 for the full program.

Keep in mind that additional expenses can add to your overall cost. These may include textbooks, lab fees, uniforms, and clinical-related costs such as transportation or background checks. Many students reduce their out-of-pocket expenses by using financial aid or attending schools within their state.

Financial Aid for Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Paying for your degree can feel overwhelming, but several financial aid options may help make it more manageable. Most accredited programs accept federal aid, and many schools offer additional support for healthcare students.

• Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA): Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you qualify for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Grants are especially valuable because they do not need to be repaid.
• Scholarships: Many colleges and healthcare organizations offer scholarships for respiratory therapy students. These may be based on financial need, academic performance, or your interest in working in high-demand healthcare roles.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: If you’re already working in healthcare, your employer may offer tuition reimbursement programs. These benefits can help cover part of your education costs, often in exchange for a commitment to remain with the employer after graduation.
• State and Institutional Aid: Some states and schools offer additional grants or reduced tuition rates for residents. Checking with each school’s financial aid office can help you find opportunities that fit your situation.

How To Choose the Right 2-Year Respiratory Therapy Degree

Choosing the right program starts with understanding your goals and how much flexibility you need. Since these are entry-level programs, you’ll want to make sure the school prepares you for licensure while also fitting your schedule and learning preferences.

As you compare options, focus on the factors that can shape your experience and timeline:

• Accreditation: Look for schools that are institutionally accredited and have programs approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). This is essential for licensure and employment.
• Program Format: Many programs are hybrid, combining online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals. Consider whether the schedule works with your availability.
• Clinical Placement: Check how the school handles clinical rotations and whether placements are offered near your location. This can affect both convenience and completion time.
• Timeline and Structure: Some programs offer year-round courses or structured pathways that help you stay on track and finish in about two years.
• Transfer Credits: If you’ve completed general education courses, choosing a program that accepts transfer credits may reduce your workload.
• Career Preparation: Look for programs that prepare you for certification exams and offer support with job placement or career services.

Career Outlook With a Respiratory Therapy Degree

Respiratory therapy is a growing healthcare field with steady demand for trained professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for respiratory therapists is projected to grow about 12 percent from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This demand is driven by an aging population and the ongoing need for respiratory care services.

FAQs About 2-Year Respiratory Therapy Degree Programs

If you’re considering a two-year program, you likely want to know how it fits into your career plans and how employers view your degree. Below are answers to common questions to help you move forward with confidence.

Is an Online Respiratory Therapy Degree Worth It?

An online respiratory therapy degree can be worth it if you need flexibility while completing your education. Many programs use a hybrid format, allowing you to complete coursework online while still gaining hands-on experience through labs and clinical rotations.

The value often comes down to your goals. Completing an accredited program is required for licensure, and earning your degree can open the door to stable healthcare careers with opportunities for advancement over time.

Is an Online Respiratory Therapy Degree Respected by Employers?

Employers typically focus on accreditation and licensure rather than whether your coursework was completed online or on campus. As long as your program is accredited and prepares you for certification, your degree can be recognized by healthcare employers.

Hands-on experience is also a key factor. Hybrid and in-person clinical training ensures you develop the practical skills employers expect, which can make you a competitive candidate after graduation.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Respiratory Therapist?

For most students, the fastest way to become a respiratory therapist is to complete an associate degree program, which typically takes about two years. These programs include both classroom learning and clinical training required for licensure.

If you already have college credits or healthcare experience, you may be able to finish faster by transferring prerequisites or enrolling in an accelerated format. After becoming licensed, you can continue your education through bridge or bachelor’s programs if you want to advance your career.

Are Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees Faster Than On-Campus Programs?

Online respiratory therapy degrees are not usually faster than on-campus programs, but they can offer more flexibility. Online coursework may allow you to complete assignments on your schedule, which can help if you’re balancing work or family responsibilities.

However, all programs require in-person clinical training. Because of this, the overall timeline is often similar whether you study online or on campus, especially for entry-level degrees.

What Are the Licensure Requirements for Respiratory Therapists?

To become a respiratory therapist, you’ll need to complete an accredited respiratory therapy program and meet your state’s licensing requirements. Most states require you to pass an exam through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC), such as the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.

Licensure requirements can vary by state, so it’s important to check with your local licensing board. Some states may also require background checks or continuing education to maintain your license after you begin working.

Discover Online Respiratory Therapy Degrees

Find the perfect respiratory therapy program for you by exploring the accelerated degrees featured on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools to find out more about program requirements and timelines.