Dreambound
Blog

Respiratory Therapist schools near me in St. Louis

In the St. Louis metro area, the average cost of a Respiratory Therapist class is $18300 and the average class length is approximately 82 weeks long

Filters

Health classes near
St. Louis, MO 63101

Class format

Available payment options

Program duration

Program level

More options

logo

Advanced eClinical Training

Medical Assistant Certification Course

Online
  • Earn CCMA in just 8 weeks with self-paced, online course
  • Lifetime career support and optional clinical externship

$1,550 to start

$3,100 total

logo

MedCerts

Fully online Phlebotomy class

Online
  • Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
  • In-person externship matching done after class

$116 to start

$2,000 total

logo

CCI Training Center

Pharmacy Technician certification

Online
  • Fully online, learn on your terms
  • Quick Training: Complete in 6 months
  • Multiple Job Opportunities

Financial aid (may be available)

logo

Advanced eClinical Training

Pharmacy Technician Certification Course

Online
  • Complete a nationally accredited CPhT course in just 12 weeks
  • Flexible, self-paced online learning accessible 24

$1,500 to start

$3,000 total

Programs not available on Dreambound

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

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

NOT AVAILABLE ON DREAMBOUND

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

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


Some results are sponsored.

Respiratory Therapist Classes Near Me in St. Louis

Introduction

As the health industry continues to expand, the demand for skilled healthcare professionals, like respiratory therapists, is on the rise. If you're based in St. Louis and interested in joining this rewarding field, you're at the right place. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need on becoming a respiratory therapist, from training requirements and what to expect from a class to the certification process and finding related jobs.

Respiratory Therapist

What is a Respiratory Therapist?

A respiratory therapist is a specialized healthcare professional who works with patients suffering from chronic respiratory diseases like asthma or emphysema, as well as acute conditions such as shock, trauma, or recovery from surgery. They play a crucial role in hospitals, clinics, and home health settings, helping patients breathe easier and improving their quality of life.

Training Requirements

Respiratory therapists must have at least an associate degree, although many employers favor those with a bachelor's degree. These programs will teach you the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this profession, such as patient assessment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, pulmonary function testing, and life support technologies.

What to Look For in a Class

When choosing a respiratory therapy class, consider the following factors:

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

  • Curriculum: The course should cover key topics like anatomy, physiology, pathology, and patient care.

  • Clinical Experience: Hands-on experience in a clinical setting is essential for gaining real-world skills.

What to Expect from the Day-to-Day Class

In a respiratory therapy class, you can expect a mix of classroom learning, laboratory work, and clinical experiences. You will learn about respiratory care procedures, medical terminology, and the use of respiratory equipment. You'll also gain hands-on experience in a clinical environment under the supervision of experienced professionals.

Certification Process

After completing your education, you will need to pass a national exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). After earning your CRT, you can pursue more advanced certifications like the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

How to Find Related Jobs

Once certified, you can look for jobs in hospitals, clinics, home health agencies, and nursing homes. Networking with professionals in the field and searching job boards can be effective strategies.

Other Classes to Take After Becoming a Respiratory Therapist

After becoming a respiratory therapist, you might want to expand your skills with additional training. Some options could include:

  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

  • Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)

These courses can help you specialize in different areas of respiratory care, increasing your employment opportunities.

Other Allied Health Careers in Missouri

Becoming a respiratory therapist is just one of many paths you can take in the allied health field in Missouri. Here are a few other careers you might consider:

These careers also require vocational training and offer rewarding work in the healthcare industry.

The Role of Respiratory Therapists in Public Health

Respiratory therapists play a vital role in public health, particularly during times of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. They are instrumental in managing patients with respiratory illnesses, providing life-saving interventions, and educating the public about respiratory health.

The Impact of Technology on Respiratory Therapy

Technology is transforming the field of respiratory therapy, with new tools and devices improving patient care and outcomes. From advanced ventilators to portable oxygen devices and telemedicine, technology is enabling respiratory therapists to provide better, more efficient care.

Professional Development for Respiratory Therapists

Continuing education and professional development are key for respiratory therapists to stay updated with the latest practices and technologies in the field. This can include attending workshops, seminars, and industry conferences, as well as pursuing additional certifications.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to become a respiratory therapist can lead to a fulfilling career in healthcare, where you can make a real difference in people's lives. With the right training and certification, you can embark on this rewarding journey in St. Louis. Remember, the journey doesn't end with becoming a respiratory therapist. The field of healthcare offers countless opportunities for further learning and growth. Whether it's specializing in a particular area of respiratory care or exploring other allied health careers, the possibilities are endless.

Dreambound has an extensive collection of guides that dive deep into how to get started in the field, tailored for various cities. For those based in different locations or planning to move, we recommend exploring our other guides.

Thinking about making a career switch? Dreambound has written thorough guides to help you understand different options available to you.

FAQ

What is Dreambound?

Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find career & technical training programs. Whether you're looking for a healthcare, technology, or business program, our mission is to provide all the information you need to find the perfect class for you.

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).