Best Certified Respiratory Therapist Training Programs in Iowa
Explore the top Certified Respiratory Therapist training programs in Iowa for 2026. This page compares 20 leading providers, offering you a detailed guide to help make an informed choice.
PRN Nursing Labs
PRN Nursing Labs specializes in Certified Respiratory Therapist training, offering a balanced mix of classroom instruction, online learning, and clinical experiences in Ankeny, Iowa. This program is tailored for individuals aiming to excel in fast-paced healthcare settings, providing them with the necessary skills to handle respiratory care duties efficiently. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for certification exams and to enter the healthcare workforce as competent respiratory therapists.
Best for individuals seeking a comprehensive blend of online and in-person respiratory therapist training.
Not ideal for students looking for low-cost training options or those unable to commit to scheduled clinical sessions.
Strengths
- PRN Nursing Labs offers a unique combination of online and in-person training, providing flexibility not found in the strictly classroom-based programs at Iowa Valley Community College and Marshalltown Community College.
- Focuses on extensive clinical practice, giving students hands-on experience superior to the more theory-focused programs at American Institute of Caring.
- Small class sizes compared to larger institutions like Mercy College Training Center, allowing for more personalized instruction and support.
Trade-offs
- More expensive compared to community college programs such as those at Iowa Valley Community College.
- Limited program variety, focusing solely on Certified Respiratory Therapist training, unlike Health Tech Associates which offers multiple health-related programs.
American Institute of Caring
The American Institute of Caring in West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a specialized Certified Respiratory Therapist program designed for both new entrants and healthcare professionals looking to enhance their skills. The curriculum blends classroom learning with extensive clinical experiences, providing students with a solid foundation in respiratory care. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for immediate employment in various healthcare settings.
Best for individuals seeking a career transition into healthcare with a focus on respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for those looking for a broad, non-specialized medical training program.
Strengths
- Offers a specialized focus on respiratory care not as prominently featured at Iowa Valley Community College or Marshalltown Community College
- Integrates real-world clinical experiences more extensively than Health Tech Associates
- Smaller class sizes compared to larger institutions like Mercy College Training Center, enhancing personalized learning
Trade-offs
- Less variety in overall healthcare programs compared to Mercy College Training Center
- Higher program specificity might limit exposure to broader medical training available at larger colleges
Iowa Valley Community College
Iowa Valley Community College in Grinnell, Iowa offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program designed for both new entrants and advancing professionals in the healthcare sector. The curriculum blends classroom learning with clinical experiences, providing comprehensive training in respiratory care. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for licensure examinations and equipped for immediate employment in various healthcare settings.
Best for individuals seeking a balanced combination of classroom instruction and real-world clinical experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students looking for fully online respiratory therapy programs.
Strengths
- Located in Grinnell, provides easier access for students in central Iowa compared to providers like Health Tech Associates based in larger cities.
- Offers a direct pathway from education to employment within local healthcare systems, unlike broader general programs at institutions like Mercy College Training Center.
- Focuses exclusively on respiratory care, providing more specialized training than broader healthcare programs at Marshalltown Community College.
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in class scheduling compared to online-focused providers like American Institute of Caring.
- Smaller network of affiliated clinical sites compared to larger institutions like Mercy College Training Center.
Marshalltown Community College
Marshalltown Community College in Grinnell, Iowa offers a focused Certified Respiratory Therapist program designed for students seeking a career in respiratory care. The training combines classroom instruction with practical clinical experiences, preparing students for real-world scenarios. Graduates can expect to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in healthcare settings, particularly in respiratory therapy.
Best for individuals seeking a career-focused, clinically integrated respiratory therapy education in a community college setting.
Not ideal for those looking for a broad, general health sciences education or online-only learning options.
Strengths
- Offers a balanced blend of classroom learning and clinical practice, providing a practical approach compared to more theory-focused programs like those at Health Tech Associates
- Located in Grinnell, Iowa, providing a community-focused educational environment less commonly found in larger institutions
- Emphasizes real-world application of skills, which may be less pronounced in the offerings at American Institute of Caring
Trade-offs
- Limited to on-campus learning, which may be less flexible compared to the online or hybrid options at Iowa Valley Community College
- Focused exclusively on respiratory care, offering fewer allied health programs than a comprehensive provider like Mercy College Training Center
Mercy College Training Center
Mercy College Training Center in Des Moines, Iowa, specializes in delivering a Certified Respiratory Therapist program tailored for aspiring health professionals. The program integrates classroom learning with clinical experiences, offering a balanced approach to both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It is designed for individuals seeking a focused educational path that leads directly to a career in respiratory therapy, preparing graduates to excel in diverse healthcare settings.
Best for individuals looking for a career-focused respiratory therapist program with strong clinical partnerships
Not ideal for those seeking a broad range of healthcare programs beyond respiratory care
Strengths
- Focused curriculum exclusively on respiratory therapy compared to broader offerings at Iowa Valley Community College and Marshalltown Community College
- State-of-the-art simulation labs offer superior practical training environments compared to smaller setups at PRN Nursing Labs and Health Tech Associates
- Strong clinical partnerships provide extensive real-world experience not matched by American Institute of Caring
Trade-offs
- Limited program diversity compared to Iowa Valley Community College and Marshalltown Community College
- Fewer campus resources than larger institutions like Iowa Valley Community College
Health Tech Associates
Health Tech Associates in West Des Moines specializes in Certified Respiratory Therapist training, offering a blend of classroom instruction and practical clinical experience. This program is designed for individuals seeking a career in respiratory therapy, emphasizing real-world application and patient care skills. Graduates will be well-prepared to meet the demands of this critical healthcare field.
Best for individuals seeking comprehensive, hands-on training in respiratory therapy within a clinical setting.
Not ideal for those looking for part-time or evening classes, as the program requires a full-time commitment.
Strengths
- Distinctive clinical partnerships provide direct experience with leading healthcare facilities in Iowa, unlike broader offerings at Iowa Valley Community College.
- Focused solely on respiratory therapy, ensuring specialized and intensive training compared to more general health programs at Mercy College Training Center.
- Located in West Des Moines, offering convenient access for residents without the need to travel as far as Marshalltown Community College.
Trade-offs
- Less variety in health programs compared to multi-disciplinary institutions like Mercy College Training Center.
- Full-time program structure may not accommodate working professionals as flexibly as PRN Nursing Labs.
Phlebotomy Training Specialists
Phlebotomy Training Specialists in West Des Moines, Iowa offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program designed for hands-on learning in both classroom and clinical settings. This program is tailored for individuals seeking a focused educational path directly into respiratory care, preparing graduates for immediate entry into professional environments.
Best for individuals looking for a direct pathway into respiratory therapy with extensive hands-on training.
Not ideal for students seeking a broad range of healthcare programs or those who prefer online learning options.
Strengths
- Offers a specialized focus on respiratory therapy, unlike broader programs at institutions like Iowa Valley Community College
- Integrates clinical experiences in local healthcare settings, providing real-world application and networking opportunities
- Located in West Des Moines, providing accessibility for students in the central Iowa region
Trade-offs
- Limited to one specific healthcare field, which may not suit those exploring diverse medical disciplines
- Does not offer the breadth of healthcare programs found at larger institutions like Mercy College Training Center
DMACC
DMACC in Perry, Iowa, offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program that blends classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences. This program is designed for individuals seeking a fast-paced, engaging educational environment that prepares them for real-world medical challenges. Graduates can expect to emerge with the skills necessary to excel in various healthcare settings, specializing in respiratory care.
Best for students seeking a hands-on, clinically focused respiratory therapy education in a community college setting.
Not ideal for students looking for a broad range of healthcare programs or advanced degree pathways.
Strengths
- Direct patient care experience during clinical rotations, offering practical skills that are often more limited in programs like those at Iowa Valley Community College.
- Focused curriculum on respiratory care, unlike broader programs at institutions such as Mercy College Training Center.
- Strong local healthcare network providing diverse clinical placement opportunities, a contrast to more rural or isolated settings like Marshalltown Community College.
Trade-offs
- Limited in scope to respiratory therapy, offering fewer ancillary health courses compared to a comprehensive provider like Mercy College Training Center.
- Less flexibility in course scheduling compared to online or larger institutions like Iowa Valley Community College.
DMACC Newton Campus
DMACC Newton Campus offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program tailored to meet the needs of aspiring healthcare professionals. The curriculum blends classroom learning with clinical experiences, providing a comprehensive understanding of respiratory care. This program is ideal for students seeking a focused, practical approach to entering the healthcare field, preparing them for diverse roles in respiratory therapy.
Best for individuals seeking a career-focused, hands-on education in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students looking for a broad range of healthcare programs beyond respiratory care.
Strengths
- Located in Newton, Iowa, providing a more accessible option for students in its geographic region compared to Iowa Valley Community College and Marshalltown Community College
- Focuses exclusively on respiratory therapy, offering specialized training that is not diluted by a wide range of unrelated programs
- Integrates real-world clinical experiences with classroom learning, giving students a practical edge over programs with less hands-on emphasis
Trade-offs
- Limited program variety compared to larger institutions like Mercy College Training Center
- Smaller network of alumni and professional connections than larger colleges
DMACC Southridge Center
DMACC Southridge Center's Certified Respiratory Therapist program offers an integrated approach combining classroom learning, clinical rotations, and online components, tailored for aspiring healthcare professionals. This program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in the field of respiratory care. Graduates can anticipate readiness for certification and entry into a growing healthcare sector.
Best for individuals seeking a balanced combination of classroom instruction, online learning, and clinical experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students looking for a program focused solely on in-person classroom instruction without the integration of online elements.
Strengths
- Offers a unique blend of online and in-person learning modalities, catering to diverse learning preferences compared to more traditional programs at Iowa Valley Community College.
- Located in Des Moines, providing greater accessibility and urban clinical placement opportunities compared to providers in smaller towns like Marshalltown Community College.
- Strong network of healthcare partnerships ensures a wide range of clinical placement options, setting it apart from newer programs like those offered by PRN Nursing Labs.
Trade-offs
- Less focused on immediate job placement services compared to specialized programs at Mercy College Training Center.
- Might have larger class sizes than programs at American Institute of Caring, potentially affecting individual attention.
DMACC Ankeny Campus
DMACC Ankeny Campus in Ankeny, Iowa, offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program designed to balance classroom learning with clinical practice, preparing students comprehensively for real-world medical environments. The program is structured to serve both new entrants to the healthcare field and professionals seeking advancement. Graduates can expect to emerge with the skills necessary to excel in respiratory care and meet the growing health care demands.
Best for individuals seeking a balance of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students looking for fully online respiratory therapist training programs.
Strengths
- Offers a more extensive hands-on clinical experience compared to programs like those at Iowa Valley Community College, enhancing practical skills
- Located in Ankeny, providing easier access for students in the Des Moines metropolitan area compared to providers like Marshalltown Community College
- Has a specific focus on respiratory therapy, unlike broader healthcare programs at institutions like Mercy College Training Center
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in program format compared to fully online options available at providers like American Institute of Caring
- Smaller range of allied health programs compared to larger institutions like Mercy College Training Center
DMACC Urban Campus
DMACC Urban Campus in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a comprehensive Certified Respiratory Therapist program tailored for individuals aiming to excel in healthcare respiratory services. The program combines classroom learning with extensive clinical experiences in local healthcare settings, making it ideal for those seeking practical, hands-on training in respiratory care. Graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the profession in various healthcare environments.
Best for students seeking comprehensive clinical exposure in urban healthcare settings.
Not ideal for students looking for a quick, less intensive training program.
Strengths
- Offers more extensive clinical rotations in urban healthcare environments compared to competitors like Iowa Valley Community College
- Location in Des Moines provides greater access to a variety of healthcare settings, unlike more rural locations such as Marshalltown Community College
- Strong focus on urban respiratory care challenges, which is not a primary focus at Mercy College Training Center
Trade-offs
- More urban-focused, which may not cover as broad a range of rural respiratory issues as seen at Iowa Valley Community College
- Intensive program that might be challenging for students seeking more flexible, part-time options
Des Moines Area Community College
Des Moines Area Community College in Boone, Iowa, offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program that combines classroom learning with extensive clinical practice. The program is designed for individuals looking to start a career in respiratory therapy, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for the certification exams and entry-level positions in various healthcare settings.
Best for individuals seeking a balanced approach between theoretical instruction and practical experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students looking for online-only respiratory therapy programs.
Strengths
- Offers state-of-the-art simulation labs for practical training, providing an edge over programs like at Iowa Valley Community College which may have more limited facilities.
- Located in Boone, Iowa, providing a more accessible option for students in central Iowa compared to providers like PRN Nursing Labs which are located farther away.
- Strong focus on preparing students for certification exams, unlike some programs that may focus more on general healthcare training.
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in scheduling compared to online programs offered by providers like American Institute of Caring.
- May have a higher cost of attendance compared to community-focused programs like Marshalltown Community College.
Mercy College of Health Sciences Student Services
Mercy College of Health Sciences offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program tailored for students seeking a blend of classroom learning, clinical experience, and online coursework. The program is designed for those who thrive in structured, diverse learning environments and aim for immediate employment in healthcare settings after graduation. Graduates are well-prepared to contribute effectively in dynamic clinical environments.
Best for students looking for a balanced mix of classroom instruction, online learning, and extensive clinical exposure.
Not ideal for students preferring a more flexible, self-paced online-only program.
Strengths
- Integrated clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities in Des Moines, offering real-world experience not matched by all competitors.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs that provide practical, hands-on training in a controlled environment, a feature less commonly available at smaller community colleges such as Iowa Valley Community College.
- Strong affiliation with local hospitals provides a network for job placement post-graduation, a distinct advantage over independent training centers like PRN Nursing Labs.
Trade-offs
- More structured and time-intensive than some programs offered by providers like the American Institute of Caring, which may offer more flexible scheduling options.
- Higher cost compared to community college programs such as those at Marshalltown Community College.
DMACC - Capitol Center
DMACC - Capitol Center in Des Moines, Iowa, specializes in training for Certified Respiratory Therapists, offering a balanced mix of classroom instruction, online learning, and hands-on clinical experiences. This program is tailored to individuals seeking a thorough understanding of respiratory care, blending theory with practical skills in real-world settings. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for certification and entry into the healthcare workforce.
Best for students seeking a blend of online and in-person learning with strong clinical practice components.
Not ideal for those looking for shorter, less comprehensive training programs.
Strengths
- Offers a unique blend of online and in-person instruction, which provides flexibility and comprehensive learning compared to programs like PRN Nursing Labs that may focus more on traditional classroom settings.
- Strong clinical focus with extensive hands-on training, setting it apart from providers like the American Institute of Caring that may offer less direct healthcare setting experience.
- Located in Des Moines, providing greater access to a variety of healthcare facilities for clinical training compared to more rural settings like Iowa Valley Community College.
Trade-offs
- Longer program duration compared to accelerated courses offered at places like Mercy College Training Center.
- May require more travel for clinical rotations compared to centralized locations like Marshalltown Community College.
AM Training Institute
AM Training Institute in West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a specialized Certified Respiratory Therapist program that combines intensive classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences. Tailored for individuals aiming to excel in the fast-paced field of respiratory care, the program prepares students for real-world medical scenarios. Graduates can expect to emerge fully equipped to handle diverse patient needs in various healthcare settings.
Best for individuals seeking a focused, immersive training experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for those looking for a broad, general healthcare education.
Strengths
- Focused specialization in respiratory therapy compared to more general healthcare programs at Iowa Valley Community College and Marshalltown Community College
- Integrated clinical rotations provide real-world experience not matched by online-centric courses like those possibly offered by other institutions
- Smaller class sizes offer more personalized instruction and hands-on opportunities compared to larger institutions
Trade-offs
- Less variety of additional healthcare programs compared to multi-disciplinary institutions like Mercy College Training Center
- Clinical rotation sites may be less diverse than those connected with larger universities or colleges
Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program that blends classroom learning with clinical and online components. The program is tailored for students seeking a dynamic education model that allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world medical settings. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for the demands of the respiratory therapy field, equipped with both foundational knowledge and practical skills.
Best for students who prefer a blend of online and in-person learning with strong clinical training components.
Not ideal for students looking for a program with a high emphasis on research and advanced academic pursuits.
Strengths
- Program format combines online, classroom, and extensive clinical experiences, unlike more rigid programs at Iowa Valley Community College.
- Located in Des Moines, providing students with access to a large network of healthcare facilities for clinical placements compared to more rural settings like Marshalltown Community College.
- Focuses solely on respiratory therapy, offering more specialized training than broader programs like those at Mercy College Training Center.
Trade-offs
- Less emphasis on research and advanced academics compared to programs like those offered by American Institute of Caring.
- Smaller range of health programs than larger institutions like Iowa Valley Community College.
ARC Respiratory Care Program
ARC Respiratory Care Program in Iowa specializes in preparing students for a career as Certified Respiratory Therapists through a blend of classroom instruction, online coursework, and extensive clinical experience. The program is tailored for individuals seeking comprehensive training that aligns with California licensing requirements at the registered respiratory therapist level. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for the demands of the healthcare industry with a strong practical and theoretical foundation.
Best for individuals aiming for a career in respiratory therapy who value a balance of theoretical knowledge and extensive hands-on clinical experience.
Not ideal for those looking for a quick certification process without a substantial clinical component.
Strengths
- Focuses on meeting California licensing standards, making it ideal for those planning to practice in California compared to other Iowa-based programs
- Offers a combination of online and in-person classes, providing flexibility not available at Mercy College Training Center
- Extensive clinical training opportunities exceed those provided by Iowa Valley Community College
Trade-offs
- Longer program duration compared to PRN Nursing Labs, which might offer faster certification options
- Less localized focus for Iowa as it prepares students primarily for California certification standards
DMACC Respiratory Therapy
DMACC Respiratory Therapy in Ankeny, Iowa, offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program tailored for individuals aiming to start a career in respiratory care. The program blends classroom instruction with clinical experiences in healthcare settings, providing a comprehensive learning environment. It is designed to suit aspiring therapists who thrive in hands-on and interactive learning settings. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for the licensing exams and to enter the workforce with confidence.
Best for individuals seeking a balance of classroom learning and extensive clinical experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students looking for a fully online respiratory therapy program.
Strengths
- Offers more extensive clinical rotation opportunities compared to providers like Iowa Valley Community College, enhancing real-world experience.
- Located in Ankeny, providing advantageous proximity to a range of healthcare facilities for clinical placements, unlike more remote providers such as Marshalltown Community College.
- Focuses exclusively on respiratory therapy, ensuring a tailored and specialized educational experience, unlike broader community colleges.
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in class scheduling compared to online-focused options like American Institute of Caring.
- Fewer advanced technology resources in training compared to specialized facilities like Mercy College Training Center.
ECG Training Specialists
ECG Training Specialists in West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program that combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. The program is designed for students seeking a focused, hands-on approach to respiratory care, preparing them for real-world medical settings. Graduates can expect to enter the healthcare workforce with the skills necessary to excel in respiratory therapy.
Best for students looking for a practical, hands-on educational experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students seeking a broad, generalized healthcare education.
Strengths
- Specializes exclusively in respiratory care, unlike general providers like Iowa Valley Community College
- Clinical partnerships with local healthcare facilities provide real-world experience not matched by online-focused programs such as PRN Nursing Labs
- Smaller class sizes compared to larger institutions like Marshalltown Community College, allowing for more personalized instruction
Trade-offs
- Limited program scope compared to broader healthcare education providers like Mercy College Training Center
- Less flexibility in course scheduling compared to fully online programs like those offered by American Institute of Caring
What to Look For in Certified Respiratory Therapist Programs in Iowa
When choosing a Certified Respiratory Therapist training program in Iowa, prioritize accredited programs that align with industry standards. Consider the program's duration, cost, required clinical hours, and success rates on certification exams. Additionally, assess the quality of faculty and the support available for job placement after graduation.
Key Takeaways
Selecting the right Certified Respiratory Therapist program involves careful consideration of accreditation, program costs, and clinical training. It's also beneficial to evaluate the program's track record for exam pass rates and employment success.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Certified Respiratory Therapist training cost in Iowa?
The cost of Certified Respiratory Therapist training in Iowa varies by program and institution, typically ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the length and type of the program.
How long does it take to get Certified Respiratory Therapist certified in Iowa?
Completing a Certified Respiratory Therapist program in Iowa usually takes 2 to 4 years, depending on whether the student is pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree.
What are the requirements for Certified Respiratory Therapist training in Iowa?
Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of prerequisite courses in science and math, and passing an entrance exam. Some programs may also require interviews or background checks.
Are there online Certified Respiratory Therapist programs in Iowa?
Yes, some schools in Iowa offer online courses as part of their Certified Respiratory Therapist programs, though clinical hours must be completed in person.
What is the job outlook for Certified Respiratory Therapist holders in Iowa?
The job outlook for Certified Respiratory Therapists in Iowa is positive, with expected growth due to aging population and increasing healthcare needs.
Is financial aid available for Certified Respiratory Therapist programs in Iowa?
Financial aid is available for eligible students in Iowa through federal grants, loans, and scholarships. Students are encouraged to apply for FAFSA and seek institution-specific financial aid packages.
What should I look for in a Certified Respiratory Therapist training program?
Key factors include accreditation by recognized bodies, program length, cost, clinical hours, and pass rates on certification exams. Also, consider faculty experience and job placement rates.
How do I choose between Certified Respiratory Therapist programs in Iowa?
Evaluate each program based on accreditation, curriculum, cost, clinical training opportunities, and post-graduation employment rates. Visiting campuses and speaking to current students and faculty can also provide valuable insights.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Guide
Requirements, costs, salary data
Certified Respiratory Therapist in Iowa
State requirements and salary info
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