Prepare for a Career in Respiratory Therapy with STLCC
At St. Louis Community College, you can choose from two respiratory programs designed to fit your career goals. The associate degree in respiratory care is a two-year program that’s ideal if you want to start working sooner or continue your education while gaining experience. The bachelor’s degree in respiratory care opens doors to leadership roles, research, education and advanced clinical opportunities, giving you a competitive edge in the field.
Both programs give students access to:
- Expert instruction from experienced faculty
- Training with modern medical technology
- Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling
- Real-world clinical practice focused on career success
Becoming a Registered Respiratory Therapist
Graduates from either program can take the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exams to earn the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. Earning your RRT shows employers you have the skills needed to work safely and effectively in hospitals, outpatient clinics and other health care settings.
You can also expand your credentials by sitting for specialty exams from the NBRC, including:
- Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS)
- Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS)
- Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT)
- Sleep Disorders Specialist (SDS)
- Asthma Educator Specialist (AE-C)
Respiratory Therapy Program Options
Learn more about the respiratory care programs offered at St. Louis Community College.
Bachelor of Science
The bachelor’s program trains students in the skills and knowledge used by registered respiratory therapists. Students learn the core skills of respiratory care and also gain experience in leadership, research, teaching and advanced clinical practice.
Courses and clinical rotations prepare graduates for higher-level roles in health care, such as supervising teams, helping design patient care programs, and taking part in research projects. Graduates leave ready to take on more responsibilities and stand out in their field.
Associate in Applied Science
The associate degree prepares students to become respiratory therapists by teaching you how to assess patients, perform tests, provide treatment and educate people with heart and lung conditions.
The program combines general education courses with respiratory care classes, lab exercises and clinical rotations at local hospitals and health care facilities. Students gain real-world experience working with patients, helping you confidently start an entry-level job in a hospital, outpatient clinic or other health care setting.
Program Highlights
Syeeda Ali - Respiratory Care Program Graduate
"It's the best decision I've ever made. It provided me with a great education at an affordable price. It got me into a career that I love and that allows me to support my family. School can be challenging, but the payoff is well worth it."
Respiratory Care Program Honored for Credentialing Success
St. Louis Community College's respiratory care program recently received the Distinguished Registered Respiratory Therapist Credentialing Award from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Therapy Care.
STLCC's New Bachelor's in Respiratory Care Opening Doors For Graduates
While STLCC has always provided a pipeline to Mercy, one of the College's clinical partners, the new bachelor's program is especially exciting for the St. Louis region.
STLCC. What's your reason?