Butler University will launch a Respiratory Therapy Bachelor of Science degree, with applications open in January 2027 and the first cohort beginning fall 2027.
RT’s Three Key Takeaways:
- Workforce Growth: Employment for respiratory therapists is projected to grow 12% between 2024 and 2034, which is faster than the average for all other occupations, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Clinical Experience: Students will complete approximately 1,000 hours of experiential learning with clinical partners throughout Central Indiana.
- Leadership Focus: The curriculum emphasizes leadership, research, and advanced cardiopulmonary care to prepare graduates for future roles within healthcare organizations.
Butler University is expanding its healthcare offerings with the launch of a new Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy degree program, according to the university. The program will welcome its first cohort in fall 2027, with applications opening in January 2027.
The degree is designed to prepare students for one of the fastest-growing professions in healthcare while addressing the increasing demand for respiratory therapists in Indiana and throughout the US. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for respiratory therapists is projected to grow 12% from 2024 to 2034, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $80,450 in May 2024.
“Respiratory therapists are essential members of every healthcare team, and the need for highly skilled clinicians continues to grow across Indiana,” said Jo Isley, respiratory therapy manager at Community Hospital North and chair of Butler’s Respiratory Therapy Advisory Committee, in a news release. “We’re excited to partner with Butler because we know firsthand the value of strong clinical preparation.”
The program includes one year of prerequisite coursework followed by three years in the professional respiratory therapy program. The curriculum features hands-on courses combining foundational sciences, liberal arts, and advanced respiratory therapy coursework. Clinical experiences begin during the professional phase and include approximately 1,000 hours of learning with healthcare partners in Central Indiana. Students will also complete a capstone project alongside healthcare leaders to solve real-world challenges identified by clinical partners.
“Our program is designed to prepare graduates who are clinically skilled, compassionate, and ready to become leaders in the profession,” said Christy Kane, program director for Butler’s Respiratory Therapy program. “Through Butler’s personalized approach to education and extensive clinical experiences, students will graduate ready to make an immediate impact in healthcare organizations throughout Indiana.”
Butler’s curriculum also includes preparation in leadership, healthcare systems, research, evidence-based practice, and advanced cardiopulmonary care. This structure aligns with the profession’s increasing emphasis on bachelor’s-prepared practitioners for future leadership roles.
“The healthcare challenges facing our communities require professionals who are not only technically proficient but also prepared to lead, collaborate, and innovate,” said Bob Soltis, dean of Butler’s College of Health Professions. “This program reflects Butler’s commitment to preparing graduates who will strengthen the healthcare workforce while improving the health and well-being of the communities they serve.”
Clinical partners for the program include Community Health Network, Eskenazi Health, Ascension St Vincent, Indiana University (IU) Health, Parkview Health, Pike Medical, and Kindred Hospitals.
