Respiratory Therapy Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina

Get your Respiratory Therapy degree in Charlotte, North Carolina - online & campus-based options available.

Contact a school today for more info.

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist in Charlotte, North Carolina

If you’re considering a career as a Respiratory Therapist (RT) in Charlotte, North Carolina, you’re embarking on a path that is both rewarding and in high demand. Respiratory Therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing care for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. This guide will walk you through the educational paths, local Respiratory Therapy programs, and the steps required to become a licensed RT in Charlotte.

About Charlotte

Charlotte, known as the Queen City, is the largest city in North Carolina and a major hub for finance, culture, and healthcare. With a rich history and a thriving arts scene, Charlotte offers a diverse range of neighborhoods such as Uptown, South End, and NoDa. For more information about Charlotte, visit the official city website.

Respiratory Therapy Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte boasts several educational institutions offering Respiratory Therapy programs. Here are three options for aspiring Respiratory Therapists:

1. Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC)
   • Located in the heart of Charlotte, CPCC offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Respiratory Therapy. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
   • CPCC Respiratory Therapy Program
2. Gaston College
   • Situated in nearby Dallas, NC, approximately 25 miles from Charlotte, Gaston College provides an AAS degree in Respiratory Therapy. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience and prepares students for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exams.
   • Gaston College Respiratory Therapy Program
3. Catawba Valley Community College
   • Located in Hickory, NC, about 60 miles from Charlotte, this college offers a comprehensive Respiratory Therapy program leading to an AAS degree. The program includes extensive clinical rotations and is CoARC accredited.
   • Catawba Valley Community College Respiratory Therapy Program

Respiratory Therapist Employment Opportunities in Charlotte

Charlotte is home to several major healthcare facilities that employ Respiratory Therapists:

1. Atrium Health
   • As one of the largest healthcare systems in the region, Atrium Health offers numerous employment opportunities for Respiratory Therapists. Their facilities are located across various neighborhoods, including the main campus in Dilworth.
   • Atrium Health Careers
2. Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center
   • Located in the Elizabeth neighborhood, Novant Health is a prominent healthcare provider in Charlotte, offering a wide range of services and employing a significant number of RTs.
   • Novant Health Careers
3. Levine Children’s Hospital
   • Part of Atrium Health, this hospital is located in the Dilworth area and specializes in pediatric care, providing unique opportunities for Respiratory Therapists interested in working with children.
   • Levine Children’s Hospital Careers

Prerequisites for Respiratory Therapy Programs

To enroll in a Respiratory Therapy program in Charlotte, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum Age: Generally 18 years or older.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams such as the TEAS.
• Background Check: A clean background check is often required.
• Medical Status: Proof of immunizations and a physical exam may be necessary.

Respiratory Therapist Licensure Requirements in North Carolina

To practice as a Respiratory Therapist in North Carolina, you must:

• Complete an Accredited Program: Graduate from a CoARC-accredited program.
• Pass the NBRC Exams: Obtain the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials.
• Apply for Licensure: Submit an application to the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board, including transcripts, NBRC credentials, and a background check.
• Maintain CPR Certification: Current CPR certification is required.
• Fulfill Continuing Education: Complete continuing education to maintain licensure.

For more information, visit the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board.

Licensure Reciprocity

North Carolina does not have specific licensure reciprocity agreements with other states. However, if you are licensed in another state, you may apply for licensure by endorsement, provided you meet North Carolina’s requirements.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a fulfilling career choice with a positive job outlook. If you’re ready to take the next step, explore the Respiratory Therapy programs available and reach out to a school today to begin your journey. For more information on the job outlook for Respiratory Therapists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.