ACC offers a variety of streamlined programs so you can start making a difference sooner. Here’s what you should know about training to become a Respiratory Therapy vs. Optical Technician at ACC.
You can also take the ACC healthcare career quiz to discover which role aligns with your interests and goals.
| Respiratory Therapy | |
|---|---|
|
Complete in as little as 20 months |
|
Available in: |
Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County (Anaheim) |
Program type: |
Associate degree |
Days on campus: |
2 days in-person with coursework online |
Sample courses: |
Cardiopulmonary Anatomy and Physiology |
Externship hours: |
720 hours |
Exam prep: |
Become eligible to sit for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) |
Tuition: |
|
Enrollment requirements: |
Must have a high school diploma or the equivalent |
| Optical Technician | |
|---|---|
|
Complete in as little as 9 months |
|
| Weekend classes available! | |
Available in: |
Los Angeles and Ontario |
Program type: |
Diploma |
Days on campus: |
2 days in-person with coursework online |
Sample courses: |
Cardiopulmonary Anatomy and Physiology |
Externship hours: |
220 hours |
Exam prep: |
Option to pursue National Opticianry Competency Exam (NOCE) and Contact Lens Registry Exams (CLRE) |
Tuition: |
|
Enrollment requirements: |
Must have a high school diploma or the equivalent |

Ontario Campus: Voted Best Career College in the 2025 Inland Valley Daily Bulletin Readers Choice Awards.

LA Campus: Voted Best Career College in the 2025 LA Daily News Readers Choice Awards.

OC Campus: Voted Best Career College in the 2025 San Gabriel Valley Tribune Readers Choice Awards.