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Respiratory Therapist schools near me in Pittsburgh

In the Pittsburgh metro area, the average cost of a Respiratory Therapist class is $16600 and the average class length is approximately 94 weeks long

Healthcare classes near

Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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Laurel Business Institute

Respiratory Therapy

In person·40 mi away
  • Earn an Associate’s degree in just 20 months.
  • Offers comprehensive education in respiratory care.

Financial aid (may be available)

Other programs you might like within healthcare

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CCI Training Center

Administrative Medical Assistant

Online
  • Online learning with live lectures and instructor-led sessions
  • Quick Training: Complete in 25 weeks

Financial aid (may be available)

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CCI Training Center

Medical Billing & Coding Specialist

Online
  • Online learning with live lectures and instructor-led sessions
  • Quick Completion: Finish in 26 weeks

Financial aid (may be available)

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Peloton College

Medical Billing and Coding - Evening (740 hours)

Online
  • Can be completed in as little as 9 months or 36 weeks.
  • Eligible for CEHRS or CBCS certifications.

Financial aid (may be available)

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Southern New Hampshire University

BA Psychology with concentration in Mental Health

Online
  • Complete your degree at your own pace
  • 24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Schools not available on Dreambound

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University of Cincinnati - Online

Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy

Online

The University of Cincinnati's online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program is designed to improve real-world clinical competence while preparing active respiratory therapy professionals for a lasting future in the healthcare industry. The robust and engaging curriculum challenges students, promoting a deeper understanding of advanced healthcare operations, logistics, technology, leadership, ethics, and project management. Delivered by the industry-experienced faculty in the UC College of Allied Health Sciences, the online program advances respiratory therapy practice and research by focusing on current and future industry standards. The end result is a clinician who can make significant contributions to the field while positively affecting the future of respiratory care for a diverse range of patients. Build on your experience, define your practice, and prepare for the future. Develop the expertise needed for advanced practice and leadership opportunities. Interact and network with an industry experienced faculty and healthcare professionals. Earn a bachelor of science in respiratory therapy in as few as 20 months (5 semesters). Continue working while your learn with flexible, 100 percent online classes.

No cost info

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Missouri Online

Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy

Online

A bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy from MU will help you provide the hands-on care that assists in recovery and management of a wide range of medical conditions. If you hold the NBRC RRT credential or the Canadian equivalent, this may be the degree for you.

No cost info

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East Tennessee State University

Online Respiratory Therapist Classes

Online

Respiratory Therapy careers are projected to grow 23% by 2026, and because East Tennessee State University allows more transfer credits than most universities, an online B.S. in Respiratory Therapy from ETSU can save you valuable time and tuition dollars while helping you move forward faster.

The Respiratory Therapy (Cardiopulmonary Science) Completion Program at ETSU is an accredited, online program dedicated to providing advanced instruction emphasizing best practices in clinical respiratory therapy based on scientific inquiry.

No cost info

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Ferris State University

Online Respiratory Therapist Classes

Online

Working primarily in hospital settings, respiratory therapists are responsible for an extremely wide range of patients. From the smallest infants to the elderly, from long-term disease to emergencies, respiratory therapists must be prepared for everything. Our program will give you access to expert instruction and the cutting-edge skills you need to advance your career.

This is a degree completion program. Students must have earned an associate degree in respiratory care, hold your RRT from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC), and currently licensed to practice to be eligible for admission.

No cost info

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The University of Toledo

Online Respiratory Therapist Classes

Online

This Registered Respiratory Therapy program is 100% online and is designed as a nontraditional track for individuals who have completed an associate's degree in respiratory care and have already earned the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential granted by the National Board for Respiratory Care. Our courses are taught by full-time faculty who are Registered Respiratory Therapists with advanced degrees and extensive clinical training and experience.

No cost info

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Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts - Online

A.O.S. in Respiratory Therapy

Online
  • Earn your full-time online degree in 36 months with flexible scheduling
  • Preparation for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) examinations

Financial aid (may be available)

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

Keiser University - Fort Lauderdale, FL Campus

Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy

Online

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy prepares students for employment as respiratory therapists under the supervision of licensed physicians. A Respiratory Therapist provides education, diagnostic testing and respiratory therapy in the management of conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute cardio-respiratory failure, asthma, and other pulmonary pathologies.

No cost info

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Community College of Allegheny County - Boyce

Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapist

In person·12 mi away

The Respiratory Therapy Program is a full-time program that is completed in 5 consecutive semesters. The program includes training in the use of equipment as well as a patient-oriented hospital experience. Program courses offered only at the Allegheny Campus. There are both day and evening programs available.

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Respiratory Therapist Classes Near Me in Pittsburgh

Introduction

Are you in Pittsburgh and interested in pursuing a career as a Respiratory Therapist? This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a Respiratory Therapist, including training requirements, what to look for in a class, what to expect from day-to-day classes, and what the certification process looks like. Also, we will delve into how to find related jobs and what other classes someone can take after becoming a Respiratory Therapist.

Respiratory Therapist

What is a Respiratory Therapist?

A Respiratory Therapist is a specialized healthcare professional who has been trained to provide treatment, evaluate, and care for patients who have breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. They work with patients of all ages, from premature infants with undeveloped lungs to elderly patients who may have diseased lungs. They are also responsible for providing emergency care to patients suffering from heart attacks, stroke, drowning, or shock.

Training Requirements for a Respiratory Therapist

The path to becoming a Respiratory Therapist typically involves the following steps:

  • Obtain a high school diploma or GED.

  • Complete a degree program in Respiratory Therapy.

  • Obtain state licensure to practice Respiratory Therapy.

  • Consider becoming certified in a specialty area.

Each of these steps involves specific training and education requirements. For instance, to be a Respiratory Therapist, one must complete an associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited program. Some people also opt for a bachelor's degree for more advanced opportunities. After education, all states require Respiratory Therapists to be licensed, and while requirements vary by state, it typically involves passing a state or professional certification exam.

What to Look for in a Respiratory Therapist Class

When looking for a Respiratory Therapist class, there are several important factors to consider.

  • Accreditation: The program should be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).

  • Curriculum: The program should offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers all necessary areas, including both classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience.

  • Faculty: The instructors should be experienced professionals in the field.

  • Facilities: The program should have the latest equipment and resources for training.

  • Student Support: Look for programs that offer strong student support services, including career counseling and job placement assistance.

What to Expect from the Day-to-Day Class

Respiratory Therapist classes typically involve both classroom learning and clinical experience. During classroom learning, students learn about different aspects of respiratory care, such as patient assessment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, respiratory health promotion, and disease prevention. They also learn about the equipment and technology used in respiratory care. During the clinical experience, students get hands-on experience providing respiratory care to patients under the supervision of experienced professionals.

What Does the Certification Process Look Like?

After completing the educational requirements, Respiratory Therapists must pass a national exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). After gaining some experience, they can then take another exam to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). Some Respiratory Therapists also choose to become certified in specialty areas, such as pediatrics, neonatal, or pulmonary function technology.

How to Find Related Jobs

After becoming a Respiratory Therapist, there are several resources you can use to find related jobs. These include job boards, networking events, professional organizations, and career services at your school. You can also find opportunities in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies.

What Other Classes Can Someone Take After Becoming a Respiratory Therapist?

After becoming a Respiratory Therapist, you might consider furthering your education and skills by taking additional classes. These could include:

  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

  • Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)

  • Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT)

These additional certifications can open up opportunities for advancement and specialization within the field of Respiratory Therapy.

Importance of Continuous Learning

Continuous learning is paramount in the medical field, including Respiratory Therapy. As medical techniques and technologies evolve, continuous learning can help you stay up-to-date with the latest best practices. This could involve attending workshops, seminars, or taking additional courses related to your field.

Utilizing Technology in Respiratory Therapy

With the advancement of technology, it's important for Respiratory Therapists to be adept at using various medical equipment and software. This includes ventilators, diagnostic equipment, and medical record software. Having a strong grasp of these technologies can enhance patient care and make you more marketable to employers.

Networking and Professional Associations

Joining professional associations can provide numerous benefits, including networking opportunities, access to continuing education resources, and staying up-to-date with industry news and developments. Associations like the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) can provide valuable resources for Respiratory Therapists.

Ethics and Professionalism in Respiratory Therapy

As a Respiratory Therapist, it's crucial to adhere to a high standard of ethics and professionalism. This includes respecting patient dignity, maintaining confidentiality, and providing competent care. Understanding and adhering to these principles can help you build trust with patients and colleagues.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist can be a rewarding career path for those interested in helping others and working in the healthcare field. It requires specialized training and certification, but offers opportunities for continuous learning and advancement. If you're looking for Respiratory Therapist classes near you in Pittsburgh, it's important to consider the factors discussed in this guide to make an informed decision about your education.

Dreambound has written dozens of in-depth guides on how to get started in this field, with information specific to your city. If you're located somewhere else or thinking about moving, check out some other guides we've written:

If you're exploring various professional paths, Dreambound has in-depth guides to help assist you. Explore a few of these resources below.

FAQ

What is Dreambound?

Dreambound's platform has the largest number of options for students to find career & technical education. While we can't guarantee any career outcomes, our mission is to provide you with the information you need to find a program that helps you start your new career journey.

What programs do you offer?

Dreambound has over 70 programs across healthcare, technology, business, and industrial trades. This includes programs such as Medical Billing, Cybersecurity, and welding.

Do you offer financial aid?

Some of our schools offer financial aid for those who qualify. Many others offer payment plans, where you can pay the cost of class over time.

Is it possible to do online classes?

Yes, Dreambound offers many online programs. On Dreambound's search, you can filter by online, in-person, and hybrid (part online, part in-person).