Respiratory Therapy DESCRIPTION WORK ENVIRONMENT The Respiratory Therapy Program (RPT) is a balanced curriculum including both respiratory and general education courses. Course content includes the role of the respiratory therapist, health care concepts, and technical observations and skills. It provides the student with a strong background in the use of respiratory equipment, cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, diagnostic procedures, sleep disorders, and pathophysiology. The student receives direct, hands-on patient care experience in various hospitals and facilities throughout the clinical education. Respiratory therapists held about 119,300 jobs in 2012. Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals. Others may work in nursing care facilities or travel to patients’ homes. JOB OUTLOOK Employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow nineteen percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. Growth in the middle-aged and elderly population will lead to an increased incidence of respiratory conditions, such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and pneumonia. For career information or guidance, contact Career Services Center 205.391.2204 ahenderson@sheltonstate.edu POTENTIAL SALARIES According to America’s Career Infonet, statistics show the following: Location United States Alabama Pay Period 2014 Salary Range Low High Hourly $19.89 $37.61 Yearly $41,400 $78,200 Hourly $16.48 $28.93 Yearly $34,300 $60,200