Respiratory Therapy Careers Begin With
Kansas City Kansas Community College
Coordinator, Mike Parrett
What is Respiratory Therapy
There are two levels of respiratory care practitioners: Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRT). Kansas City Kansas Community College provides students both levels of training. Upon completion of respiratory therapy training graduates from all programs must pass national board exams to earn their CRT or RRT credentials.
Certified Respiratory Therapists
Certified Respiratory Therapy students complete 35-38 credit hours in general education and prerequisite courses plus 34 credit hours in respiratory therapy courses. These students earn an Associate of Applied Science degree. Many respiratory therapists are CRT level.
Registered Respiratory Therapists
Registered Respiratory Therapy students complete 35-38 credit hours in general education and prerequisite courses plus 40 credit hours in respiratory therapy courses. These graduates are awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree. Their training includes more critical thinking, decision making, advanced critical care, neonatal and pediatric content than does the CRT track.
Special Note:
It is not necessary to complete all prerequisite and general education classes before starting respiratory therapy classes. Each prospective student is encouraged to check with a KCKCC respiratory therapy instructor for advisement on which classes to take and when.
Both CRT and RRT graduates are in high demand. Most find employment in hospitals, while others may be employed with home care companies, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, or clinics. Some may work for manufacturers and suppliers of respiratory therapy equipment.
To speak with the Respiratory Therapy Coordinator, Mike Parrett, phone (913) 288-7245 or Email Mike Parrett