Overview
CoARC and respiratory therapy education
The Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) is the recognized accreditor of respiratory therapy education programs, offered at the associate through master’s level. CHEA-recognized.
The Gate
CoARC, the NBRC exams, and licensure
You must complete a CoARC-accredited program to sit for the NBRC exams. Candidates need at least an associate degree from a CoARC-supported program to take the TMC (Therapist Multiple-Choice) exam; passing it earns the CRT, and passing the CSE (Clinical Simulation Examination) at the higher standard earns the RRT. Nearly all states license respiratory therapists based on NBRC credentials.
The Credentials
CRT and RRT
- CRT — Certified Respiratory TherapistEarned by passing the NBRC TMC exam after a CoARC-accredited program.
- RRT — Registered Respiratory TherapistThe advanced credential, earned by passing the TMC at a higher cut score plus the Clinical Simulation Examination.
- SpecialtiesNBRC also offers specialty credentials (e.g., pulmonary function, neonatal/pediatric) built on the CRT/RRT foundation.
Do It Yourself
Verify a respiratory care program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits respiratory therapy programs? The Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), the recognized accreditor of respiratory therapy education. It is CHEA-recognized.
- Do I need a CoARC-accredited program to become a respiratory therapist? Yes. You must complete a CoARC-accredited program to sit for the NBRC exams that lead to the CRT/RRT credentials and licensure.
- What are the NBRC exams? The Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) exam, which earns the CRT, and the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE), which with a higher TMC score earns the RRT.
- What is the difference between CRT and RRT? CRT is the Certified Respiratory Therapist credential; RRT is the advanced Registered Respiratory Therapist credential, earned with the additional Clinical Simulation Examination.
- What degree do respiratory therapists need? At least an associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program; bachelor's and master's programs also exist.
- Do states license respiratory therapists? Nearly all states license respiratory therapists, generally based on NBRC credentials from a CoARC-accredited program.
- Is CoARC recognized by the government? CoARC is CHEA-recognized. Its role is the education gate to NBRC credentialing and licensure.
- How do I verify a respiratory care program? Search the CoARC directory and confirm exam eligibility with the NBRC.