Kansas City Kansas Community College prepares students for 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.
Most respiratory therapists are CRT level.
Registered Respiratory Therapy students complete 40-43 credit hours in general education and prerequisite courses plus 36 credit hours in respiratory therapy courses. These graduates are awarded an Associate of Science degree. Their training includes more critical thinking, decision making, advanced critical care, neonatal and pediatric content than does the CRT track. 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 center, or clinics.