| Aspect | Respiratory Therapy Student | Respiratory Therapist |
|---|
| Credentials | Enrolled in respiratory therapy program, no certification required | Licensed and certified (e.g., CRT or RRT) |
| Work Environment | Clinical rotations, classroom, lab settings | Hospitals, clinics, respiratory care departments |
| Job Role | Learning, assisting, observing | Performing respiratory care procedures independently |
The main difference is that a Respiratory Therapy Student is in training and gaining experience, while a Respiratory Therapist is a licensed professional providing respiratory care services independently.