Respiratory therapy, or respiratory care, is an allied health profession specializing in cardiopulmonary
disorders and diseases. A respiratory therapist can be instrumental in assisting a physician in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide spectrum of disorders affecting the heart and lungs.

There are two levels of therapists in respiratory care: certified respiratory therapists and registered respiratory therapists.

A certified respiratory therapist is the entry-level position in the field and requires a minimum of an associate’s degree to be a candidate for the CRT board exam. CRTs typically work with less critically
ill patients.

A registered respiratory therapist is an advanced-level position in the field and requires a two-, three- or four-year degree program. RRTs typically work in ICUs and are more likely to be in positions of supervision.

Monroe County Community College has both CRT and RRT programs at the associate’s degree level.
Graduates of the CRT program may transfer to a bachelor’s degree program or elect to continue
with the accelerated RRT program for the advanced practitioner.

Because area employers prefer the RRT, graduates who complete the accelerated registered therapist
program are able to assume positions of advanced practitioners in less time. Graduates of both CRT and RRT programs at MCCC exceed the national averages for success on board exams. Future employment or certified and registered respiratory therapists is considered excellent nationwide, as well as in Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio.

The Monroe County Community College respiratory therapy program is accredited by the Commission on
Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) through the Committee on Accreditation
for Respiratory Care (CoARC).