Harper's highly regarded health careers division is expanding to offer an in-demand
Respiratory Therapist associate degree. The program will launch in the future and
we invite you to learn more today.
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Planning for your future begins here.
It only takes 20 seconds to get started!
Prepare for a health profession
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree is designed to prepare you for immediate entry into this profession. Coursework
in the AAS may also prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or university.
This is a limited-enrollment program.
Learn more about career outcomes for Harper's Respiratory Care Science degree program.
Each career profile offers a complete picture on the local job market, including salaries,
open positions, top local employers and more. To learn more, visit our Respiratory Care Science Careers page.
Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory Therapists
* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Respiratory Therapists career profile for most current data.
$80,121 Median Salary
7% Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)
512 Job Postings
Description:
Assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Assume primary responsibility
for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy
technicians. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records;
and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.
Core tasks:
Provide emergency care, such as artificial respiration, external cardiac massage,
or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Monitor patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial
blood gases, or blood chemistry changes, and consult with physician if adverse reactions
occur.
Work as part of a team of physicians, nurses, or other healthcare professionals to
manage patient care by assisting with medical procedures or related duties.
Set up and operate devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration
apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified
parameters of treatment.
Quick facts:
For more information about starting your college education at Harper, please contact
Admissions Outreach at 847.925.6700 or fill out our request information form.
