Respiratory Care Education Programs

Pursuant to Business and Professions Code section 3740(a), all applicants for licensure must complete an education program for respiratory care that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) or its successor and been awarded a minimum of an associate degree from an institution or university accredited by a regional accreditation agency or association recognized by the United States Department of Education.

While an associate degree is the minimum requirement for licensure, several institutions also offer bachelor’s degree programs. These programs are available to students who want to pursue advanced education in respiratory care, but they are not currently required for licensure.

For accreditation details and to verify current program status, see CoARC’s official listings: Find an Accredited Program.

2019–2024 Program Pass/Fail Rates (PDF)

Last updated: September 2025

Note: Program information can change. Verify details directly with the institution and CoARC.