Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory Therapy is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The program takes 24 months to complete.
Program Overview
Keiser University’s associate degree in respiratory therapy provides comprehensive training in all aspects of the respiratory care profession. Students learn to identify lung diseases, evaluate patients with breathing disorders, perform diagnostic procedures, and implement treatment plans under physician supervision. The curriculum covers everything from basic respiratory interventions to advanced care for individuals with cardiopulmonary disorders.
Clinical rotations place enrolled students in real healthcare environments where they manage ventilators for individuals requiring mechanical support, perform chest physiotherapy, analyze blood samples, and respond to emergency situations. This hands-on experience builds the demonstrated competence required for entry-level practice as a respiratory therapy associate.
The Respiratory Therapy program is designed to prepare students to become effective, knowledgeable, safe, and competent respiratory therapy practitioners who will practice under the supervision and direction of a licensed physician.
Program GoalsTo prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of respiratory care practice as performed by registered respiratory therapists (RRTs).
Program PhilosophyRespiratory Therapy is a profession that serves a diverse population. The respiratory therapy practitioner plays an integral role in the delivery of respiratory therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician.
The Respiratory Therapy curriculum integrates didactic, laboratory and clinical practicums, each of which plays a significant role in the education of the student.
The program:
- Recognizes that communication and interaction skills play an integral role in the preparation of a student to become an advanced practitioner respiratory therapist
- Recognizes that each student is an individual participant who brings a variety of needs and attributes to the educational process
- Promotes diverse educational methodologies to create a rich learning environment for all students
- Encourages both the faculty and the student to take responsibility for the learning environment, which requires cooperation and commitment from all individuals involved in the program
- Recognizes that learning and assessment is a continuous process that is a necessary component of professional growth and development
Responsibilities of a respiratory therapist include:
- Identifying lung and breathing disorders and recommending treatment methods.
- Interviewing patients and doing chest physical exams to determine what kind of therapy is best for their condition.
- Consulting with physicians to recommend a change in therapy, based on patient evaluation.
- Analyzing breath, tissue, and blood specimens to determine levels of oxygen and other gases.
- Managing ventilators and artificial airway devices for patients who can’t breathe normally on their own.
- Responding to Code Blue or other urgent calls for care.
- Educating patients and families about lung disease so they can maximize their recovery.
- Sequential Curriculum Design – each course builds on previous knowledge. Enrolled students must complete courses with satisfactory grades to progress through the program sequence. This ensures demonstrated sufficient compliance with educational standards at each level.
- Extensive Clinical Practice – clinical practicum courses provide supervised experience in affiliated healthcare facilities. Students apply classroom learning while working with individuals under licensed supervision, developing both technical competence and professional behaviors.
- National Board Preparation- graduates become eligible to sit for the national accreditation exams for the designation of the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) and apply for state license as a respiratory therapist. The national examinations consist of the Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination (TCM) and the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) offered by the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC). Information on the exam process is available through the NBRC at nbrc.org
- The AS Degree Respiratory Therapy program at Keiser University located in Fort Lauderdale, FL, program number 200571, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.
Students entering the Respiratory Therapy major courses must meet these requirements:
- Background check and drug screening;
- Completion of prerequisites Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II with a minimum of a “B” in each course;
- Completion of the following prerequisite courses: MCB2000C and CHEM2045/L and all general education coursework with a minimum grade of “C” for each course;
- Cumulative grade average of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0.
| Estimated Average Expenses for the Respiratory Therapy Program | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $11,468.00 per semester |
| Education Fee | $980.00 per semester |
| Books | $800.00 per semester |
| Health Insurance | Market Value |
| Other Fees | |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | $ 145.00 non-refundable |
| Application Fee | $ 55.00 non refundable |
| Withdrawal Fee | $ 100.00 |
| Re-Entry Fee | $ 150.00 |
| Transcript Fee | $ 5.00 |
| One-Time Expense | |
|---|---|
| Clinical Compliance Tracking | $ 266.00 |
| BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP | Market Value |
| Medical Expenses/Screenings | $ 293.00 |
| Uniforms/Lab Coat/Stethoscope | $ 200.00 |
| Self-Assessment Exam: Therapist Multiple Choice | $ 50.00 |
| Self-Assessment Exam: Clinical Simulations for RRT | $ 70.00 |
| Boards and State Licensure Fees | |
|---|---|
| National Board of Respiratory Care: Therapist Multiple Choice Exam | $ 190.00 |
| National Board of Respiratory Care: Clinical Simulations Exam | $ 200.00 |
* Refer to undergraduate student catalog for specific tuition and program fees.
Faculty DirectoryMedical Director
Dr. Jeffrey Wolkowicz MD
jeffrey.wolkowicz@keiseruniversity.edu
Program Director
Fitzwilliam Thompson, BHS, BA, RRT
fithompson@keiseruniversity.edu
Director of Clinical Education
Lloni-Rae Crooks, BS, RRT
llonirae.crooks@keiseruniversity.edu
Faculty
Eliana Moreira, B.A., M.A., RRT
eliana.moreira@keiseruniversity.edu
Johanne Abraham, BS, RRT
johanne.abraham@keiseruniversity.edu
Adjunct Faculty
Bruce Hibber MPH, RRT
bruce.hibbert@keiseruniversity.edu
Published by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
Outcomes data from the Annual Report of Current Status has been posted on the CoARC website. Follow this link directly https://coarc.com/students/programmatic-outcomes-data/. CoARC accredits respiratory therapy education programs in the United States. To achieve this end, it utilizes an ‘outcomes based’ process. Programmatic outcomes are performance indicators that reflect the extent to which the educational goals of the program are achieved and by which program effectiveness is documented.
State Licensure DisclosureCareer Outcomes
Graduates of Keiser University’s associate degree program prepare for careers across multiple healthcare settings. This respiratory therapy degree qualifies you to sit for the national board examination and pursue professional licensure as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT). Employment opportunities span hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, cardiopulmonary diagnostic labs, and specialized facilities where respiratory therapists work with diverse populations experiencing breathing disorders.
Career Paths for Respiratory Therapists- Intensive care departments
- Emergency departments
- Neonatal intensive care units
- Cardiopulmonary departments
- Surgical recovery areas
- Pulmonary function testing labs
- Sleep disorder centers
- Rehabilitation centers
- Home health agencies
- Patient education specialists
- Equipment sales and service
Why Choose Keiser University
Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Respiratory Therapy Career
- Ventilator management techniques
- Diagnostic testing procedures
- Patient assessment and monitoring
- Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation methods
- Emergency response protocols
- Clinical documentation practices
- Professional communication with healthcare teams
- Therapeutic interventions
Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels. The student-centered approach ensures enrolled students receive individualized attention throughout their educational journey.
Request More InfoFrequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the respiratory therapy program online at Keiser University?
No, the associate degree program requires on-campus attendance and clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities. The hands-on nature of respiratory care practice requires direct supervision during skill development, which online learning cannot provide. Enrolled students must attend scheduled laboratory sessions and clinical practicums to develop demonstrated competence.
What's the difference between a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)?
The CRT credential represents entry-level certification obtained by passing the Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination. The RRT credential demonstrates advanced competency and requires passing both the TMC and Clinical Simulation Examination. Keiser’s respiratory therapy degree program prepares graduates for the RRT credential through comprehensive coursework covering all domains tested on the respiratory care credentialing examination.
What clinical sites will I work at during the program?
Enrolled students complete clinical practicums at affiliated hospitals, intensive care facilities, and specialty centers throughout the local area. Specific placement depends on campus location and clinical site availability. The Director of Clinical Education coordinates all clinical assignments to meet program requirements.
How long does it take to complete the respiratory therapy program?
The associate degree program requires approximately 24 months to complete when attending full-time. The exact completion time varies based on your course load, any transfer credits, and your individual academic progress.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
What happens if I fail a respiratory therapy course?
Because each course serves as a prerequisite for the subsequent course, students must achieve satisfactory completion with a grade of C or higher to progress. Students who do not meet this requirement may need to retake the course before continuing in the program sequence. This policy ensures demonstrated sufficient compliance with learning objectives before advancing.
What certification exams will I take after graduation?
Graduates sit for the respiratory care credentialing examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Respiratory Care. The successful completion of the Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination and Clinical Simulation Examination qualifies you for the registered respiratory therapist (RRT) credential. After obtaining national board certification, graduates apply for professional licensure through the appropriate licensing board in their state.
Where do respiratory therapists work?
Registered respiratory therapists find employment in diverse settings including hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, cardiopulmonary diagnostic labs, rehabilitation centers, and specialized facilities. Some advance into management, or patient education. The respiratory care profession offers flexibility to work in various healthcare environments based on career interests.
What's the median annual wage for respiratory therapists?
According to labor statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered respiratory therapists earn competitive wages reflecting their specialized healthcare role. Specific salary information varies by geographic location, experience level, and practice setting. The median annual wage data appears on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website with regular updates.
Does Keiser offer financial aid for this program?
Students in this program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
Can I work while completing the respiratory therapy program?
The intensive nature of the degree program, including scheduled clinical rotations that may occur during daytime hours, makes full-time employment challenging. Many enrolled students work part-time or adjust their work schedules to accommodate program requirements. The sequential curriculum requires dedicated time for coursework, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences.
Can I advance to a bachelor's degree after completing the associate degree?
Yes, many registered respiratory therapists pursue bachelor’s degree programs in respiratory care, healthcare management, or related fields after completing their associate degree and gaining professional experience. A bachelor’s degree can open opportunities for advanced practice, management positions, or specialized roles within the respiratory care profession. Keiser University offers various bachelor’s degree programs that may accept transfer credits from the associate degree program.
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Location
Accreditation
The AS Degree Respiratory Therapy program at Keiser University located in Fort Lauderdale, FL, program number 200571, is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care, 264 Precision Blvd. Telford, TN 37690, (817) 283- 2835, www.coarc.com.
Career outlook
Government figures for Respiratory Therapists · typical entry education: Associate's degree. These describe the occupation, not this school's graduates.
Advance your career
Related job titles
- Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Respiratory Therapist
- Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
- Hospital Respiratory Therapist
- Inhalation Therapist
- NICU Respiratory Therapist (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Respiratory Therapist)
- Oxygen Therapist
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
- Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP)
- Respiratory Therapist (RT)
Titles reported for this occupation by O*NET. Not a list of jobs this program guarantees.
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Respiratory Therapy Major Courses (42.0 credit hours total) | |
| Respiratory Therapy Fundamentals | 3 |
| Respiratory Therapy Theory | 3 |
| Clinical Respiratory Medicine | 3 |
| Pharmacology for Respiratory Care | 3 |
| Clinical Practicum I | 3 |
| Diagnostic Procedures in Respiratory Care | 3 |
| Intensive Respiratory Care | 3 |
| Clinical Practicum II | 3 |
| Pediatric and Neonatal Respiratory Therapy | 3 |
| Clinical Practicum III | 3 |
| Special Topics in Respiratory Therapy | 3 |
| Clinical Practicum IV | 3 |
| Clinical Practicum V | 3 |
| Respiratory Therapy Management | 3 |
| Subtotal | 42 |
| Behavioral Science (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Communications (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Speech Communications | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Computers (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| English (3.0 Credit Hours) | |
| English Composition I | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours) | |
| American Literature | 3 |
| English Literature | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Mathematics (3.0 credit hours) | |
| College Algebra | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Natural Science (16.0 credit hours) | |
| Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 4 |
| Human Anatomy and Physiology II | 4 |
| Microbiology I | 4 |
| General Chemistry | 3 |
| General Chemistry Laboratory | 1 |
| Subtotal | 16 |
| Program Total | 79 |
