Respiratory Therapy Program Earns Top Five Ranking
The UNC Charlotte online bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy is ranked fifth nationally in the 2019-2020 BestColleges rankings.
To compile its rankings, BestColleges reviews data from National Center for Education Statistics. The organization considers the following factors: Academics & Learner Support (50% of total score); Affordability (25% of total score); and Online Programming (25% of total score).
“Our accomplished faculty are committed to preparing students to become that ‘next generation’ respiratory therapist,” said Professor Amanda Dexter, BSRT program coordinator. “Students learn the detailed research process and have the opportunity to present their finalized clinical, educational, administrative, or population-based project prior to graduation.”
Many students in the program pursue advanced clinical roles as respiratory therapists and find job opportunities in hospitals, outpatient clinics and other health care settings. Courses cover topics in administration, research and critical care pathophysiology. Students discuss the history and evolution of the respiratory therapy profession, current trends and pertinent issues in the field.
“When I first enrolled in the program I was quite nervous,” said Sharonda Jackson, BSRT alumna. “I am a single mom who had been out of school for over 20 years, and work a full time job. Yet I knew it was something I needed to do for my career. The faculty quickly put all of those fears to rest…and did everything in their power to provide us the tools to succeed.”
The 44-credit hour UNC Charlotte online bachelor’s in respiratory therapy program can be completed in two-years.
For Jackson, the degree has provided a pathway to career growth.
“This program provides a strong foundation to ensure that respiratory practitioners can develop a much needed clinical ladder and continue to play a vital role in the multidisciplinary care team,” she said.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the respiratory therapy field will grow by 12% and add approximately 14,900 jobs to the economy by 2024.