Getting Started as a Respiratory Therapist in Hawaii
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted that jobs growth for respiratory therapists will increase nationwide by 19% between 2019 to 2029.
To become respiratory therapist in Hawaii (HI) you will need to complete an accredited program and obtain your respiratory therapist license. Below we provide information on schools, licensing, certification requirements, and careers data.
Jump to:
Top Respiratory Therapist Schools in Hawaii
| School | Area | Degree | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kapiolani Community College | Honolulu | AS Degree | Learn More |
The Commission on Accreditation of Respiratory Care (CoARC) are responsible for accrediting respiratory therapist schools.
There is only 1 fully accredited respiratory therapist school in Hawaii, located in Honolulu.
Typically you will choose between an associates degree (2 years) or a bachelors degree (4 years). An associates degree will get you started in your career whilst a bachelors degree will open up more career doors such as supervisory and management roles.
Certification is optional but provides assurances as to an individuals skills and competencies.
Learn more: Respiratory therapist program requirements
Hawaii Respiratory Therapist License
Once you have graduated from an accredited program it is required by Hawaii law that you obtain a license to work as a respiratory therapist there. The Respiratory Therapist Licensure Program governs the licensing of respiratory therapists in Hawaii.
You can contact the Board directly using the details below:
Phone: 808.586.2704
Website: cca.hawaii.gov
Learn more: Steps to become a respiratory therapist
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Hawaii
| Average Salary | $76,610 |
| Hourly Wage | $36.83 |
| Top 10% | $98,160 |
| Bottom 10% | $60,290 |
| Employed | 350 |
According to a recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2019), the average respiratory therapist salary in Hawaii is $76,610. This is 20% above the national average.
This equates to an average hourly wage of $36.83.
Salary levels for respiratory therapists in Hawaii have grown significantly by 15%, or $10,250, between 2015 and 2019.
- The top 10% of earners in the profession in Hawaii had an average salary of $98,160
- The lower 10% and entry level respiratory therapists earned an average salary of $60,290
| Metro Area | Salary | Employed | Top 10% | Bottom 10% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Honolulu | $77,520 | 320 | $98,760 | $61,700 |
Respiratory Therapist Employment in Hawaii
There are currently 350 people employed as respiratory therapists in Hawaii. This number has grown by 9%, or 30 respiratory therapy jobs, between 2015 and 2019.
The table below compares respiratory therapy salary and employment with similar healthcare careers in Hawaii;
| Career | Salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Respiratory Therapist | $76,610 | 350 |
| Physical Therapist | $92,650 | 790 |
| Occupational Therapist | $87,080 | 300 |
| Speech & Language Therapist | $79,930 | - |
What next?
We hope this guide helps you get started on your path towards becoming a respiratory therapist in Hawaii. You might also be interested in the following related pages:
- Online classes