Education & Employment
Respiratory therapy programs, career outlook, and employment resources in Maryland and DC.
Respiratory Therapy Programs
All programs listed are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and prepare graduates for the NBRC credentialing exams.
Maryland — Associate Degree (A.A.S.) Programs
| Institution | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Allegany College of Maryland | Cumberland, MD | allegany.edu |
| Baltimore City Community College | Baltimore, MD | bccc.edu |
| Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) — Essex | Baltimore County, MD | ccbcmd.edu |
| Frederick Community College | Frederick, MD | frederick.edu |
| Prince George's Community College | Largo, MD | pgcc.edu |
| Washington Adventist University | Takoma Park, MD | wau.edu |
District of Columbia — Associate Degree (A.A.S.) Programs
| Institution | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|
| University of the District of Columbia Community College | Washington, DC | cc.udc.edu |
Maryland — Bachelor's Degree (B.S.) Programs
| Institution | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Salisbury University | Salisbury, MD | salisbury.edu |
What to Expect in an RT Program
Respiratory therapy education programs typically take two years for an associate degree, with an option to bridge to a bachelor's for working RTs. Coursework covers anatomy and physiology, cardiopulmonary science, pharmacology, patient assessment, mechanical ventilation, and neonatal/pediatric care.
Clinical rotations are a major component — you'll train in hospitals, ICUs, emergency departments, pulmonary function labs, and sleep labs under the supervision of experienced practitioners. By the time you graduate, you'll be prepared to sit for the NBRC Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) and Clinical Simulation (CSE) exams.
The profession is increasingly discussing the bachelor's degree as the standard entry-level credential. If you're enrolled in or considering an AAS program, many schools now offer articulation agreements with four-year universities, letting you complete a BS while you work. Salisbury University's program, for example, is designed for practicing RTs looking to advance their education.
Career Outlook
Demand for respiratory therapists continues to grow. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth of 13–15% over the next decade — well above the national average for all occupations. Factors driving demand include an aging population, rising prevalence of chronic respiratory conditions, and the expanded role of RTs in critical care and emergency settings highlighted during the pandemic.
Where RTs Work
Respiratory therapists work in a wide range of settings, including:
- Acute care hospitals and medical centers (ICU, ED, general floors)
- Neonatal and pediatric intensive care units
- Pulmonary function and diagnostic labs
- Sleep disorder centers
- Home care and durable medical equipment companies
- Rehabilitation and long-term care facilities
- Education — teaching the next generation of RTs
- Industry — medical device and pharmaceutical companies
Regional Considerations
Maryland and DC are home to some of the country's leading healthcare institutions — Johns Hopkins, MedStar, the University of Maryland Medical System, NIH, Walter Reed, and Children's National, among others. There are strong opportunities in the Baltimore-Washington corridor, while rural and Eastern Shore hospitals often have particularly acute staffing needs. It's a region with real variety, whether you prefer the pace of a university medical center or the close-knit feel of a community hospital.
Employment Resources
Looking for work or looking to hire? Here are several ways to connect:
MD/DC Society Job Postings
The Society posts employment opportunities on behalf of hospitals and healthcare systems in our region. To submit a job listing or inquire about current openings, email board@mddcsoc.org.
Additional Resources
- AARC Career Center — National job board for respiratory therapists
- Johns Hopkins Careers
- MedStar Health Careers
- University of Maryland Medical System Careers
- Adventist HealthCare Careers
- LifeBridge Health Careers
For Students
If you're a student or recent graduate, consider these resources:
- AARC Student Membership — Discounted membership with full access to resources
- Attend the Conference by the Sea — the MD/DC Society's annual conference is a great networking opportunity
- Connect with a mentor through the Managers & Leadership List Serve (email board@mddcsoc.org to learn more)