Best Certified Respiratory Therapist Training Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Discover the top Certified Respiratory Therapist training programs in Des Moines, Iowa for 2026. This overview compares six leading institutions to help you find the right fit for your career aspirations.
Mercy College Training Center
Mercy College Training Center in Des Moines offers a specialized Certified Respiratory Therapist program that blends classroom learning with clinical experiences and online components. Designed for individuals aiming to excel in the healthcare field, this program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in respiratory care. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for professional credentials and careers in various healthcare settings.
Best for aspiring healthcare professionals seeking a career-focused respiratory therapist training with diverse learning formats.
Not ideal for students looking for a broad range of healthcare programs beyond respiratory therapy.
Strengths
- Offers a balanced mix of classroom, clinical, and online training, unlike DMACC Urban Campus which focuses more heavily on traditional classroom instruction.
- Located centrally in Des Moines, providing easier access for local students compared to the farther situated DMACC Southridge Center.
- Specializes exclusively in respiratory therapist training, ensuring focused and detailed educational content, unlike broader offerings at Mercy College of Health Sciences.
Trade-offs
- Limited program variety compared to Mercy College of Health Sciences, which offers multiple health science programs.
- Less campus-based community interaction due to the blended format of the program, compared to the more traditional campus experience at DMACC - Capitol Center.
DMACC Southridge Center
DMACC Southridge Center's Certified Respiratory Therapist program is designed for those aiming to excel in the field of respiratory care. The program uniquely blends classroom instruction, clinical rotations, and online learning, creating a comprehensive training environment. It's especially suited for students who thrive in a structured yet diverse learning format and prepares graduates for dynamic roles in healthcare settings.
Best for students seeking a balanced mix of classroom learning, online education, and clinical experience.
Not ideal for students looking for a program with a heavy emphasis on research-oriented respiratory care.
Strengths
- Offers a unique integration of online components which enhances flexibility compared to traditional programs at DMACC Urban Campus and Mercy College of Health Sciences.
- Located at Southridge Center, providing easier access for students living in southern Des Moines compared to DMACC - Capitol Center.
- Clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings give a real-world experience not matched by purely academic settings like Mercy College Training Center.
Trade-offs
- Less focus on research and advanced studies compared to Mercy College of Health Sciences Student Services.
- Smaller range of additional health programs compared to DMACC Urban Campus, which may limit interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
DMACC Urban Campus
DMACC Urban Campus in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a focused Certified Respiratory Therapist program that integrates classroom learning with real-world clinical experiences. This program is designed for individuals seeking a career in respiratory care, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for the demands of the healthcare industry, particularly in respiratory services.
Best for individuals seeking a balance of classroom learning and practical clinical experience in respiratory therapy.
Not ideal for students looking for a predominantly online or remote learning format.
Strengths
- Offers more direct patient interaction during training compared to DMACC Southridge Center
- Located in a highly accessible urban area, unlike the more suburban or less central locations of some competitors
- Enhanced focus on respiratory therapy, unlike broader programs at Mercy College of Health Sciences
Trade-offs
- Fewer online course options compared to Mercy College of Health Sciences
- Limited program variety outside of respiratory therapy compared to broader offerings at DMACC - Capitol Center
Mercy College of Health Sciences Student Services
Mercy College of Health Sciences offers a Certified Respiratory Therapist program that combines classroom learning, clinical experience, and online coursework. This unique blend is ideal for students who value a comprehensive educational approach that prepares them for real-world medical challenges. Graduates can expect to emerge well-equipped for careers in various healthcare settings, ready to help patients with respiratory needs.
Best for students seeking a versatile education in respiratory therapy that combines online flexibility with intensive clinical practice.
Not ideal for students who prefer a solely in-person learning experience without the integration of online coursework.
Strengths
- Unique integration of online, classroom, and clinical training provides a flexible learning environment compared to more traditional programs at DMACC campuses.
- Strong focus on real-world applicability with extensive hands-on clinical experiences not matched by all competitors.
- Located in Des Moines, providing greater accessibility and networking opportunities in the city's medical community compared to more suburban or rural campuses like DMACC Southridge Center.
Trade-offs
- Less focus on purely in-person classroom interaction compared to programs like those at DMACC Urban Campus.
- May not offer the same breadth of general education courses as larger institutions like DMACC.
DMACC - Capitol Center
DMACC - Capitol Center in Des Moines, Iowa, offers a specialized Certified Respiratory Therapist program that combines classroom instruction, online components, and extensive clinical experience. This program is tailored for students who thrive in a diverse learning environment that prepares them for real-world medical challenges. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for their certification exams and to possess the skills necessary for immediate employment in the respiratory therapy field.
Best for students seeking a balanced approach to respiratory therapy training with strong clinical practice components.
Not ideal for students looking for a program with minimal online components.
Strengths
- Offers a unique blend of online and in-person instruction, differentiating it from more traditionally structured programs at Mercy College of Health Sciences.
- Located centrally in Des Moines, providing easier access for students compared to DMACC Southridge Center.
- Strong clinical partnerships offering diverse hands-on experiences, not as prominently featured at DMACC Urban Campus.
Trade-offs
- Less focused on broader health sciences compared to Mercy College of Health Sciences.
- Smaller facility may offer fewer extracurricular opportunities than larger campuses like DMACC Urban Campus.
Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College of Health Sciences in Des Moines offers a comprehensive Certified Respiratory Therapist program that combines classroom instruction with clinical experiences and online learning modules. This program is designed for students seeking a dynamic blend of theoretical and hands-on education in respiratory therapy. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for careers in various healthcare settings, equipped with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
Best for students seeking a career in respiratory therapy with a balanced mix of classroom learning, clinical experience, and online education.
Not ideal for students looking for a program with high flexibility in course scheduling.
Strengths
- Blended learning format integrates online, clinical, and classroom learning, unlike more rigid programs at DMACC Urban Campus.
- Focus on hands-on clinical experience, offering direct patient interactions that some competing programs may lack.
- Located centrally in Des Moines, providing easier access for local students compared to institutions like DMACC Southridge Center.
Trade-offs
- Less schedule flexibility compared to online-centric programs such as those offered by DMACC - Capitol Center.
- Smaller range of health programs compared to larger institutions like DMACC Urban Campus.
What to Look For in Certified Respiratory Therapist Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
When choosing a Certified Respiratory Therapist training program in Des Moines, prioritize accredited and state-approved programs. Evaluate the cost, program length, availability of clinical hours, and exam pass rates. These factors significantly influence your readiness and eligibility for certification.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right Certified Respiratory Therapist program involves considering various factors such as accreditation, cost, and program outcomes. Ensure the program aligns with your career goals and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Certified Respiratory Therapist training cost in Des Moines, Iowa?
Training costs vary by institution, typically ranging from affordable community college rates to more expensive private college fees.
How long does it take to get Certified Respiratory Therapist certified in Des Moines, Iowa?
Certification programs usually last 2 to 4 years, depending on the program type and whether you attend full-time or part-time.
What are the requirements for Certified Respiratory Therapist training in Des Moines, Iowa?
Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of specific science courses, and passing an entrance examination.
Are there online Certified Respiratory Therapist programs in Des Moines, Iowa?
Some schools offer hybrid programs combining online coursework with in-person clinical practice, though completely online programs are rare.
What is the job outlook for Certified Respiratory Therapist holders in Des Moines, Iowa?
The job outlook is positive, with increasing demand in healthcare settings due to the aging population and respiratory conditions.
Is financial aid available for Certified Respiratory Therapist programs in Des Moines, Iowa?
Most institutions offer financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and student loans to eligible students.
What should I look for in a Certified Respiratory Therapist training program?
Key factors include accreditation, state approval, program and clinical hours, national exam pass rates, and job placement statistics.
How do I choose between Certified Respiratory Therapist programs in Des Moines, Iowa?
Consider program accreditation, costs, length, clinical opportunities, pass rates on certification exams, and post-graduation employment rates.
Certified Respiratory Therapist Guide
Requirements, costs, salary data
Certified Respiratory Therapist in Des Moines, Iowa
State requirements and salary info
Need Help Finding the Right Certified Respiratory Therapist Program in Des Moines, Iowa?
Tell us about your goals and we'll connect you with the right training providers.
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities.