Respiratory Therapy Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Treatment and management of patients with breathing disorders and cardiopulmonary conditions.
Starting Salary
$55K
median
Mid-Career
$68K
salary
ROI Payback
3 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
1.5%
rate
Respiratory Therapy Overview
Treatment and management of patients with breathing disorders and cardiopulmonary conditions.
Category
Healthcare
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
80%
Enrollment Trend
growing
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
5%
Lifetime Premium
$450K
Female Graduates
60%
Respiratory Therapy Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$13,500
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$13,500
after scholarships
ROI Payback
1 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$436,500
Lifetime earnings premium ($450,000) minus net degree cost ($13,500)
Respiratory Therapy Salary Progression
Common Respiratory Therapy Careers
Respiratory Therapist
Pulmonary Function Technologist
Critical Care RT
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Respiratory Therapy
#1
University of Missouri
#2
Boise State
#3
Georgia State
#4
University of Texas Health
#5
Rush University
Related Majors
Respiratory Therapy Degree FAQ
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