According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, respiratory therapy is one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions in the country. Respiratory therapists (RTs) are highly skilled healthcare professionals who care for patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary conditions such as asthma, COPD, and other respiratory illnesses. RTs work with patients of all ages in a variety of settings, including hospitals, emergency departments, neonatal intensive care units, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics.

The profession offers strong job stability, competitive pay, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives every day. The median annual salary for respiratory therapists was $80,450 in 2024, and employment is projected to grow 12% from 2024–2034—much faster than the average for most occupations.
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Most respiratory therapists enter the field with an associate degree in respiratory therapy, though some employers may prefer a bachelor’s degree. RTs must also obtain state licensure in most states. With approximately 8,800 job openings projected each year, respiratory therapy continues to be a rewarding and in-demand healthcare career.

​Ready to start your career in respiratory therapy? Click the links below to learn more about respiratory therapy programs offered throughout Kentucky and take the first step toward a rewarding future in healthcare. 

Western Kentucky Programs

Central Kentucky Programs

Eastern Kentucky Programs