There Are Many Respiratory Therapist Schools in California


There are quite a few respiratory therapist schools in California. So, those who want to take up this profession can consider themselves lucky. Students wishing to attend any of these schools in the US state of California may join private schools, universities as also community colleges where respiratory therapy programs are routinely offered. Most of these not only include classroom work, but also prearranged clinical work done at numerous hospitals. It is however crucial to remember that a program you might be interested in has been approved by the commission that gives the accreditation otherwise; you won’t be allowed to appear for the National Certification or the State Board exams.

Even though the admission requirements, content of the course and method of tuition do not vary much from one school to another, students often seem more intent on preferring programs at community colleges as they are not as pricey as private institutions. What is more, many of the therapy programs at the community colleges are set to grant associate degrees, and so, require the applicants to study human anatomy, chemistry and algebra up to certain extent. Alternatively, students wishing to go for a comprehensive respiratory program faster, often consider joining private school or colleges in the state.

Here is a listing of some of the premiere institutions in California that offer respiratory therapy programs for aspiring students.

Respiratory therapist schools in California – The Private Schools

  • Concord College, which is a private school offering respiratory therapy to students, is located at four different places covering San Diego and Los Angeles. Concord Career Degree Program involves 60 weeks in completing the theoretical, while exposure to more than 800 hrs of clinical practice at several hospitals in this region settles the issue.
  • Loma Linda close to Los Angeles has been preferred by students wishing to get a Bachelor’s Degree in the field. Here the students attend classes in general education for the first two years, and in the remaining two they are required to attend classes that give more stress on pharmacology, respiratory therapy as well as critical care. This program, nevertheless, includes clinical rotations as well.
  • California College in San Diego proffers BS in this profession.
  • Western College is capable of offering a Certificate as well as an Associate’s Degree in the trades.

Respiratory therapist schools in California – The Community Colleges

  • College in Napa Valley takes only 30 students for their program where algebra, human anatomy and chemistry are a basic qualification. The program stretches over 5 semesters. There is also a summer semester that is for 6 weeks. Students preferring better flexibility can opt for a 3-year program.
  • River College, Sacramento Offer a RT program for 2 years, admitting students each fall. This college also has a mandatory requirement of education in college level biology and algebra. Students attending this college are exposed to community hospitals that are small, as also to significant teaching hospitals like UC Medical Center.

Yes, it is a fact that there are many respiratory therapist schools in California. It is however important to remember that not all of them are good. You must choose a good school.