Respiratory Therapist

A Career in Healthcare Comes With Purpose and Possibility. Is It Right for You?

Respiratory therapists help patients breathe easier—literally. They treat people with conditions affecting the lungs or airway, from premature infants to adults with chronic illness or trauma-related injuries. In this role, you’ll manage equipment like ventilators and oxygen systems, perform treatments, and respond in emergencies with life-saving care. You’ll also teach patients breathing exercises and monitor their progress over time. This is a specialized, high-responsibility role for those who want to support critical care and help patients recover their ability to breathe.

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Do you have these skills? You may be a great match for this position.

Respiratory therapists are calm, precise, and confident in high-stakes situations. Their steady hands and sharp clinical instincts help patients breathe easier and recover faster.

100% Tuition Covered

What can I expect to earn?

New workers start around $62,878. Normal pay is $78,998 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $98,987. (source: Lightcast, 2026)

Professional License Required

Full Degree Title

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Respiratory Care

Degree Type

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)

Field

Healthcare

Counties

Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties

Also Provided

  • 2 sets of scrubs, 1 pair of shoes, and required tools.

Provided in partnership with:

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Launch a career in healthcare with full tuition coverage and support.

Capital IDEA graduates are building brighter futures right here in Central Texas— and you can be next. Get 100% free tuition and ongoing support for a college degree that opens doors to meaningful, in-demand careers.

Tuition Textbooks and Fees

100% Tuition and Books

Capital IDEA fully covers your tuition, books, and fees, ensuring you have what you need to succeed in college.

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Childcare Assistance

Focus on your studies while we help cover your childcare costs— freeing you up to build your future.

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You’re 5 Steps Away from a New Healthcare Career

Ready to build a lasting career you can count on? From your first class to your first paycheck, Capital IDEA is with you— from start to hired.

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Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Level 2 Certificate (CT2)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)
Available in Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, Williamson Counties | Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS)

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