| Sumario: | Introduction: The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the perceptions of respiratory therapists' satisfaction with their current education level, belief in the value of advanced education, and opportunities and barriers influencing perceptions of obtaining advanced education. Methods: An online self-administered questionnaire was developed and distributed to approximately 1,300 respiratory therapists and program directors using a web-based survey platform. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Most participants (80.0%) indicated satisfaction with their education level, and more than 70% agreed that there is value in furthering their education. Most participants (63.1%) agreed that the profession will provide future job opportunities and that furthering their education will affect other job opportunities. Participants reported that lack of time (28.2%), limited finances (25.8%), personal circumstances (20.2%), and lack of support (12.1%) were barriers to advanced education. Conclusions: Participants in this study had positive perceptions of obtaining advanced education for current and future job opportunities in respiratory therapy. Perceived barriers may present challenges for respiratory therapists considering advanced education at the baccalaureate and graduate levels. Future research should support the value of obtaining higher levels of respiratory therapy education for improving patient care outcomes and elevating professional growth.
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