Advancing your education expands knowledge and depth in your field, and could open doors to leadership roles. The industry of respiratory therapy places an importance on educational achievement and advancing your degree. In fact, the American Association of Respiratory Care (AARC) continues to encourage all respiratory therapists with their associate degree work to earn their bachelor’s degree in the near future.
So why should you consider pursuing a bachelor of science in respiratory therapy (BSRT)? Here are five reasons.
- Elevated patient care: With more education, comes the ability to provide a higher level of patient care. The needs of patients with cardiopulmonary diseases continues to evolve, and as the population of older patients with conditions like emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) continues to rise, the need for qualified and experienced respiratory therapists continues to increase. The AARC emphasizes the need for improvement in critical thinking skills as a necessity for the respiratory healthcare field.
- Advancement to leadership roles: Earning a bachelor’s degree can help you to be more competitive in the job market. With advanced patient skills, added confidence and critical thinking skills, you may find advancement into administrative roles. Respiratory therapists are needed to fill leadership positions, in large part due to the current strain on the healthcare system. More RTs in leadership roles means more opportunity to share expertise at the decision-making table.
- Become an educator: While most RTs work in a hospital setting, working in education is also an option. Utilize the real-world experience you have gained over the years to usher in the next generation of qualified RTs.
- Increased salary potential: While there is never a guarantee that a specific degree will result in a better salary, bachelor’s degrees are associated with a higher level of competency and more in-depth knowledge base. By earning your bachelor’s degree, you open yourself to opportunities for higher ranking and higher paying positions.
- Earn your degree completely online: Pima Medical Institute’s Bachelor of Science in Respiratory therapy program is designed for working professionals. The flexible schedule will allow you to complete your educational requirements without sacrificing your personal commitments along the way. If you are currently working, it is highly recommended to reach out to your human resources department to see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement. You can also seek out scholarship opportunities at the American Respiratory Care Foundation.
So, if you are looking to advance from your associate degree to a bachelor’s degree, are a current respiratory therapy student, or want to become one, reach out to a medical career specialist today and see where a career in respiratory therapy can take you!
