Career Description

Respiratory therapists work under a physician’s supervision to take care of patients with lung problems. The patients might have chronic asthma or have suffered a heart attack, stroke or other disease or illness.

Academic Requirements

Respiratory therapists begin their careers by completing an associate’s degree, but a bachelor’s or master’s degree may lead to better career opportunities. The capstone requirement of many programs is clinical experience, which allows students to practice respiratory therapy techniques under the supervision of licensed therapists.